About
Beaumaris Pier — a Victorian cast-iron structure extending 147 metres into the Menai Strait from the town's seafront — is one of the gentlest and most rewarding free activities on the island: crabbing from the railings with children, watching seals surface in the channel below, or simply taking in the view across the water to the mountains of Snowdonia with the 13th-century castle framing the left-hand side of the picture. The pier sees steady boat traffic — ferry crossings to Puffin Island run from the pierhead in season — and is a favourite vantage point for birdwatchers tracking red-breasted mergansers, cormorants, and occasionally a visiting osprey working the strait on autumn migration. The adjacent seafront has an ice cream kiosk and a handful of cafés, making this the natural anchor for a family afternoon in Beaumaris after the castle.
Suitable for
Accessibility
Getting there & parking
Frequently asked questions
Can we go crabbing from the pier?
Yes — crabbing from Beaumaris Pier is a classic family activity. Bring a drop-net, some bait (bacon works), and a bucket to observe before releasing. The pier railings are ideal for younger children to drop lines safely.
Can we see seals from the pier?
Grey seals are regularly seen in the Menai Strait, particularly in autumn and winter. They tend to surface in the deeper water mid-channel — scan with binoculars for dark torpedo shapes just below the surface.
Are there boat trips from the pier?
Yes — Seacoast Safaris operate RIB wildlife boat trips to Puffin Island from Beaumaris Pier during the season (April–October). Buy tickets in advance in high summer as they sell out quickly.
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