[1][better source needed] The name Prestatyn derives from the Old English prēosta (the genitive plural of prēost 'priest') and tūn ('homestead'), and thus means 'the homestead of the priests'.

Prehistoric tools found in the caves of Graig Fawr, in the nearby village of Meliden, have revealed the existence of early human habitation in the area.

Among a housing estate in the north of the town, there is a Roman bathhouse which may have been part of a fort on the road from Chester to Caernarfon.

Its cold plunge-bath was fed by a wooden aqueduct channel, while, nearby, the traces of timber buildings, as well as three bronze-smiths' workshops, have been found.

An earth mound, visible in fields to the east of the railway station, beyond Nant Hall, marks the site of an early wooden Prestatyn castle, probably built by the Norman Robert de Banastre about 1157, which was destroyed by the Welsh under Owain Gwynedd in 1167.

"Sunny Prestatyn" became famous for its beach, clean seas and promenade entertainers, and visiting for a bathe was considered very healthy by city-dwelling Victorians.

The Kwik Save store was renamed Somerfield following a takeover in 2007, and was finally demolished in 2008 when surrounding land was bought by Tesco.

Situated in Liverpool Bay, 5 miles (8 km) off the coast of Prestatyn, it was the UK's first major offshore wind farm.

Previously named the Lido, this leisure and entertainment complex was established in 1923 with an outdoor seawater swimming pool and ballroom.

[13][14] Prestatyn railway station is on the North Wales Coast Line which connects the town with Holyhead to the west and Chester to the east.

The flower show has traditionally been held within the grounds of Cerrig Llwydion, High Street, Prestatyn, which was formerly a vicarage.

It usually takes place on Ty Nant car park in Prestatyn town centre, but expanded in 2019 to include the majority of the High Street.

[18] Roddy Frame and Jeremy Stacey wrote most of Aztec Camera's 1995 album Frestonia during a three-week retreat at the Sands Hotel in Prestatyn.

Frame later blamed the overcast and grim weather conditions there for the album's melancholy and gloomy tone.

As of 23 April 2008, planning permission for floodlights and seating had been granted[20] in order to meet the Welsh Premier grading requirements.