Abersoch

Abersoch is a large village in the community of Llanengan in Gwynedd, Wales. It is a popular coastal seaside resort with approximately 1,000 inhabitants, on the east-facing south coast of the Llŷn Peninsula at the southern terminus of the A499. It is about 7 miles (11 km) south-west of Pwllheli and 27 miles (43 km) south-west of the county seat, Caernarfon. The village takes its name from the river, Afon Soch, which reaches the sea in the village.

Originally a fishing port, Abersoch is now a tourist centre specialising in dinghy sailing and other watersports such as windsurfing and jet-skiing. Nearby Porth Neigwl or Hell's Mouth, is also popular for surfing; it can hold large swells in the winter which can reach 1.5m however south westerly prevailing winds can affect quality.

Each year since 2000 Abersoch has been host to Wakestock a wakeboarding event. The Big Air competition on the main beach is held in July.

Central Abersoch has a variety of small shops as well as bars, restaurants, cafes and hotels. Boat trips around St Tudwal's Islands to see the seals and other wildlife are available from the village. It is also popular for its close proximity to Snowdonia National Park, with Snowdon being visible from Abersoch Bay on clear days. There is an 18 hole golf course.

Abersoch has come to represent the crisis in rural housing in Wales, as the area's popularity as a resort and retirement destination has resulted in local property prices being significantly higher than the regional average. A small strip of beach at Abersoch, with planning permission for the construction of a beach hut, was sold for £63,000 in May 2005. In June 2007, a mobile home on the Warren holiday park was put on the market by the Haulfryn Group at £500,000.

In February 2008 a wooden shed, 5.5 metres by 4.5 metres, was advertised for sale at £150,000. It was located 10 minutes walk from the beach, had no countryside or sea view, and was described as being in a dilapidated condition.

Virtually all the indigenous residents of Abersoch are Welsh language speakers.

Abersoch has a primary school for 3 to 8 year olds. The neighbouring village of Sarn Bach has a primary school for 3 to 11 year olds. The two schools between them educate 74 pupils. The closest specialist school is Ysgol Hafod Lon in Pwllheli. Year 7 pupils travel to Ysgol Botwnnog, 5 miles (8.0 km) inland, which is a Welsh speaking school. Non Welsh speakers tend to attend Ysgol Glan y Mor in Pwllheli, 7 miles (11 km) away.