According to the 2001 Census, together with neighbouring Towyn (to the west), it had a population of 7,864, of which 10.7% could speak Welsh.[1]
Kinmel Bay is part of a large urban area which includes Abergele, Bodelwyddan, Pensarn, Towyn, Rhyl and Prestatyn, These are also tourist areas for spring/summer self-catering holidaymakers which include various caravan sites.
According to early 19th Century texts, the etymology of 'Kinmel' derives from the Welsh name 'Cynmael' (Cyn-, a prefix which means 'former' and Mael which means 'Chief' or 'Prince').[2]
Kinmel Bay was originally called Foryd before it grew in size, and that was the name of the former train station (see Foryd railway station). Kinmel Bay beach is popular with tourists and the local population. In addition to various small shops and takeaway outlets, there is also an Asda superstore that opened in 1981, and (as of 2016) includes a large petrol filling station.
Kinmel Bay is also the name of an electoral ward which comprises the eastern half of the community of Kinmel Bay and Towyn.[4] It elects three county councillors to Conwy County Borough Council. Since 2004 it has been represented by a mixture of Conservative and Independent councillors.[5]
Kinmel Bay is also a community ward, electing town councillors to represent them on Towyn and Kinmel Bay Town Council.[6]
^The History of North Wales: Comprising a Topographical Description of the Several Counties of Anglesey, Caernarvon, Denbigh, Flint, Merioneth, and Montgomery. To which is Prefixed, A Review of the History of Britain, from the Roman Period to the Saxon Heptarchy. Interspersed with Notes Biographical and Explanatory, Volume 2 - J. Gleave and sons, 1828 [Page 364]