Y Felinheli has its origins in two hamlets, Tafarngrisiau near St Mary's Church and Aberpwll to the north-east where there was a mill on the Afon Heulyn.

It has moorings, a marina and yacht support businesses, including rigging, sail making and boatyards.

Its slipway, probably the largest in North Wales is in private ownership, is usable at most states of tide.

[12] The 2011 census noted 64.3 per cent of all usual residents aged 3 years and older in the village could speak Welsh.

[13] The 2011 census also noted that 89.4 per cent of all usual residents aged 3+ who were born in Wales could speak Welsh.

The nearest railway station as the crow flies is across the Menai Strait at Llanfairpwll (2 miles (3.2 km)).

[26] Ysgol Gynradd Y Felinheli provides Welsh-medium primary education to the village and the surrounding area.

[29] The village is currently represented in the Senedd by Arfon constituency member Siân Gwenllian (Plaid Cymru).

It is also represented by four North Wales regional members, namely Carolyn Thomas (Labour), Llyr Huws Gruffydd (Plaid Cymru), Sam Rowlands and Mark Isherwood (Welsh Conservatives).

The village is currently represented in the House of Commons by Dwyfor Meirionnydd constituency member Llinos Medi (Plaid Cymru).

[32][33] For the 2021–22 season, the team was selected by the FAW to be part of the newly created Ardal Leagues North West.

[34] A private members sailing club, Clwb Hwylio Y Felinheli, has been based in the village, on the banks of the Menai Strait, since 1947.