This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting our website. All of the opinions and thoughts expressed in this article are solely our own.
Did you know Cornwall has over 400 beaches and only 422 miles of coastline? To put this into perspective the Italian island of Sardinia has just over 1000 miles of coastline and over 200 beaches.
Cornwall as a county has the longest coastline in Britain with a lovely mild climate and is one of the sunniest parts of the UK, making it the perfect paradise for beach bums and thalassophiles (ocean-lovers).
This unique area of England is like a magnet that keeps pulling us back to explore more of the Cornish coast, perhaps it’s the enchanting power of being close to and immersed in the ocean which is known to release dopamine and can bring an inner sense of calm.
We have loved van life in Cornwall, discovering beautiful beaches, swimming in tidal pools (*coming soon) and walking along the South West Coast Path. The Cornish coastline boasts turquoise water and golden sandy beaches which could be mistaken for tropical island beaches.
This guide shares 35 of the best beaches in Cornwall following the entire Cornish coastline and is divided into beaches on the north coast and south of Cornwall. Each beach offers a variety of landscapes, from surfing beaches, more challenging to get to beaches and family-friendly beaches. In Cornwall, there is a beach for everyone.
Are there dog friendly beaches in Cornwall?
There are 148 dog friendly beaches in Cornwall a further 74 beaches have restrictions, and 4 beaches with dog bans in place. Depending on the time of year the restrictions may vary. We suggest clicking this link to get an up to date list of which beaches are the best dog friendly beaches in Cornwall.
What’s the difference between North and South Cornwall?
Along the north coast of Cornwall you’ll find a chilled surf culture, many beaches suitable for beginner surfers with great waves and the chance to catch incredible sunsets over the ocean. A popular choice for many visitors to Cornwall, the north coast has a much more dramatic coastline with cliffs and great restaurant choices.
Whereas, the south coast of Cornwall is usually less crowded and most of the beaches are more sheltered from those Atlantic winds. The south coast is even more mild than the north with wooded valleys and gardens such as the Eden project, ideal for tropical plants to grow in abundance. Cornwall has the largest collection of plant species in the British Isles.
Many people easily mistake Cornish beaches for distant tropical destinations due to the colour of the water and golden sand, such as Pedn Vounder which was recently voted as the 8th best beach in the world and the only UK beach to make the list in 2023!
North Coast
Summerleaze Beach
Located in Bude, Summerleaze Beach is a family favourite in Cornwall, not far from the Devon border. Summerleaze Beach has golden sands and is home to the enticing Bude Sea Pool overlooking the beach, offering a unique and memorable seaside experience.
Summerleaze Beach is an award-winning blue flag beach and a great place for everyone to enjoy. Offering great surfing conditions and all the local amenities close by in Bude.
Book a surf lesson and hire equipment on the beach to get in the water and experience the waves for yourself. There is easy access to the South West Coast Path for scenic walks along the coast and some great cycle routes.
Good to know | Seasonal RNLI Lifeguards
Where to park | Summerleaze Long Stay car park and Crescent Long Stay car park
Where to stay | East Thorne Glamping, Tee-Side Guest House, The Edgcumbe Hotel
Benoath Cove
Benoath Cove is a beautiful north coast beach with dramatic cliffs, a pristine sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The view of the beach from the cliffs above is breathtaking. See if you can spot the sleeping dragon on the horizon.
The cove has a tranquil atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking views making it a haven for relaxation and exploration. At low tide Benoath Cove joins the neighbouring Bossiney Cove, uncovering tidal rock pools and caves.
Walk along the cliff top for epic coastal views and to the east of Benoath Cove discover the magical Rocky Valley full of waterfalls.
Good to know | The access to the beach can be slippery and steep which makes it unsuitable for young children or those with limited mobility. Check the tide times before visiting.
Where to park | £1 all day car parking at Bossiney Cove Car Park
Where to stay | Kudhva off-grid cabins and Port William Inn
Polzeath Beach
Polzeath Beach is a surfer's paradise on the North Cornwall coast. One of the unique highlights at Polzeath is being able to park right on the beach! There are several cafés, food spots and local surf stores, including Ann’s Cottage’s original shop.
The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting surfers of all abilities with the chance to have a lesson with a surf school.
The large expanse of sand is exposed at low tide and offers plenty of space for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely walks. The surrounding cliffs offer fantastic sunset viewpoints and we’d recommend getting pizza from Paradise Pizza and going to Surfside for a drink at the rum bar.
Good to know | RNLI lifeguard cover: Easter bank holiday, weekends during April, daily from 5 May to 30 September and weekends during October.
Where to park | Polzeath Beach Car Park (the tide comes up to the wooden posts) and Tristram Car Park (large car park with access to the beach)
Where to stay | Polzeaths beach house (modern, bright and clean), Westward 14 Polzeath and Bishops View.
Trevone BAY
Across the River Camel from Polzeath, not far from Padstow, you will find the small yet picturesque beach of Trevone. Trevone is a sheltered cove with clear water and boasting beautiful sunsets.
There is easy access to the South West Coast Path, a great starting point to walk to Harbour Cove to the northeast or Harlyn Bay to the southwest. Trevone Beach has a café, surf shop, public toilets and surf hire available.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months.
Where to park | Porthmissen Car Park (pay and display) and Trevone Beach car park (better for bigger cars)
Where to stay | Atlanta Trevone Bay and Trevone
Harlyn Bay
Harlyn Bay, located near Padstow in Cornwall, is a picturesque coastal destination known for its beautiful sandy beach and excellent surfing conditions. With its clear turquoise waters and gently sloping shoreline, it is popular among families, beachgoers, and water sports enthusiasts.
Harlyn Bay offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and features lifeguard services during the summer months for added safety. Visitors can enjoy beach activities, coastal walks, picnicking, and exploring the rock pools. The beach also has toilet and a good choice of food options and a bar.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months and other selected times of the year.
Where to park | Harlyn Bay Car Park (pay and display)
Where to stay | The Pig at Harlyn Bay
Long Cove (Mother Ivy’s Bay)
Located between Harlyn Bay and Boobys Bay, Long Cove is a relatively sheltered beach and the cliffs offer protection from the wind.
The beach itself is exposed at low tide and the warm golden sand makes it the ideal spot for sunbathing. The shore break is one of the heaviest around and offers challenging conditions for bodyboarders.
Good to know | Be aware of the heavy beach break that can make swimming dangerous and there is no lifeguard
Where to park | National Trust Trevose car park
Where to stay | Mother Ivy’s Bay Holiday Park and The Pig at Harlyn Bay
Boobys Bay
This secluded beach is known for its rugged beauty, lined by rock pools that fill when the tide rises. Boobys Bay is a popular spot for surfing and is fairly exposed to the Atlantic and strong winds. The rocks can make this a dangerous surf spot at high tide and is considered a beach only for experienced surfers.
Boobys Bay has golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, offering a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. However, it's important to note that the beach is not easily accessible, requiring a walk along the coastal path.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months
Where to park | National Trust Trevose car park or Constantine Bay car park and Treyarnon Bay car park
Where to stay | Mother Ivy’s Bay Holiday Park and The Pig at Harlyn Bay
Constantine Bay
Constantine Bay is an expansive sandy beach, with clear blue waters and rolling sand dunes. The bay is west facing, making it an amazing spot for sunset. There are often strong rip currents and the water is not always suitable for swimming, however, there are lifeguards in the summer months.
Constantine has excellent surfing conditions and attracts wave riders of all skill levels. At low tide, it is possible to walk to Boobys Bay. Constantine Bay is bordered by beautiful, rolling sand dunes and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months, swimmers be aware of strong rip currents.
Where to park | Constantine Bay car park and Treyarnon Bay car park
Where to stay | Treyarnon Bay Caravan Park
Treyarnon Bay
Voted as one of the best family-friendly beaches in the area this idyllic beach is renowned for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, holiday park and natural tidal pool. The best surfing conditions are found at mid to high tide due to the rocks and rip currents at low tide.
Treyarnon Bay is surrounded by stunning coastal scenery and at low tide, rock pools emerge perfect for exploring marine life.
Treyarnon car park is close to the beach allowing easy access, although it does get busy in the summer months and is worth getting there early or visiting at another time of year. The beach also has a couple of cafes located on either side.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months.
Where to park | Treyarnon Bays car park.
Where to stay | Treyarnon Bay Caravan Park.
Bedruthan Steps
Bedruthan Steps is a breathtaking coastal landmark located in Cornwall, England. This iconic site features towering cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and a series of rocky stacks rising from the sea.
The steps leading down to the beach have been damaged by rock falls in recent years and are still yet to be repaired. Currently, this makes the beach inaccessible, however, the beach is still visible from above.
The area is rich in natural beauty and is a haven for wildlife, including seabirds and marine life. The best views of the beach are from the cliffs above. When the tide is in the water crashes in obscuring the golden sand.
Good to know | Steps leading to the beach are damaged due to rockfalls.
Where to park | National Trust Bedruthan car park or Bedruthan Steps car park.
Where to stay | Bedruthan Steps Camping
Mawgan Porth
Mawgan Porth is a charming coastal village nestled along the north coast of Cornwall. It boasts a stunning sandy beach with rolling waves, making it a popular spot for surfers and beach enthusiasts. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and coastal walks.
The village of Mawgan Porth exudes a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, with a selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops catering to visitors.
Mawgan Porth is also home to The Scarlet and Bedruthan Hotels which offer comfortable luxury accommodations and spas. We would highly recommend a visit to the spa at the Scarlet, there is a natural outdoor pool which is breathtaking in both looks and experience!
Good to know | Parking is very limited at Mawgan Porth and can become full quickly on a busy day.
Where to park | Mawgan Porth Car Park.
Where to stay | The Scarlet Hotel and Bedruthan Hotel.
Watergate Bay
This expansive sandy beach stretches for two miles, offering a stunning backdrop of cliffs and rolling waves. Watergate Bay has excellent conditions for surfing and a gradual slopping beach makes it perfect for beginners.
There are surf schools located right on the beachfront that offer classes and hire gear. The beach is home to a vibrant beachside community, with stylish hotels, restaurants, and cafes offering delicious cuisine and breathtaking views.
The beach lofts at Watergate Bay Hotel offer a unique, luxury surf-in-surf-out style accommodation and incredible views across the beach, especially at sunset.
There is a large car park at Watergate Bay and plenty of walks along the coast connecting Watergate Bay to Newquay in the south and Mawgan Porth to the north.
Good to know | The gentle slope of the beach makes this an ideal beach to learn to surf.
Where to park | Watergate Bay pay and display car park.
Where to stay | Watergate Bay Hotel
Fistral BEACH
Fistral Beach is located at the heart of Newquay, known worldwide as a premium surfing destination and is considered the UK's leading surf destination. Attracting surfers from around the globe, Fistral Beach hosts many UK and international surf competitions throughout the year.
Boardmasters festival and surf competition are split between Watergate Bay and Fistral Beach creating a week-long perfect combination of music with surfing. Fistral offers some of the best surfable waves in the UK Fistral draws a large crowd and can become crowded during the summer months.
The beach is surrounded by cliffs, providing a dramatic backdrop, while nearby amenities, including surf schools, cafés, and shops in Newquay have all that you will need. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer months and hotels such as Fistral Beach Hotel and The Esplanade Hotel offer some of the best views from their rooms.
Good to know | Can become very crowded on the beach in the summer months.
Where to park | Fistral Beach pay and display car park.
Where to stay | Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Esplanade Hotel, Lewinnick Lodge or The Headland Hotel and Spa.
Crantock Beach
This expansive sandy beach offers a tranquil escape, with its rolling sand dunes and crystal-clear waters. The dunes cover a large area known as Rushy Green and the Gannel Estuary is a scenic spot.
Crantock is an ideal beach for walks, sunbathing and is sheltered somewhat from the wind by the cliffs on the Newquay side. The beach is also renowned for its excellent surf conditions.
When the tide rolls in the River Gannel cuts off the beach from Newquay, although there is a submerged footbridge that can still be used to cross, make sure you check the tide times if accessing from Newquay/Pentire side.
Need to know | Use the tidal footbridge to cross to Newquay at high tide.
Where to park | National Trust Crantock Beach car park.
Where to stay | Treago Farm Caravan & Camping site.
Polly Joke (Porth Joke) Beach
Polly Joke or Porth Joke is a hidden gem with stunning natural beauty. Popular with bodyboarders and families, this beach has golden sands, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
Be aware that the beach is tidal and the incoming tide quickly reduces the size of the beach. It is accessible via a scenic coastal path, providing a tranquil escape, perfect for walks along the coast and exploring the many smaller coves and beaches just around the corner.
Good to know | Accessible by walking along the coastal path.
Where to park | Poly Joke Car Park
Where to stay | Treago Farm Caravan & Camping site.
Holywell BAY
A large family-friendly beach that is obscured from view until you climb over the impressive sand dunes. Holywell Bay has been featured as a backdrop in the popular Poldark series and when you arrive it’s easy to see why! Explore the beach to discover the hidden Holy well which the beach is supposedly named after.
Surrounded by soaring cliffs and offering consistent all-year-round surfing conditions, it's a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities. The southern end of the beach is sheltered by the cliffs and there are surf schools located right on the beach.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months and open to dogs all year.
Where to park | National Trust Holywell Bay car park.
Where to stay | Parkdean Resorts Holywell Bay Holiday Park.
Perranporth BEACH
Perranporth Beach is famous for the Watering Hole, a bar and restaurant located right on the sand and the Chapel Rock tidal pool. As one of the longest sandy beaches in Cornwall, this beach is next to one of the largest sand dune habitats in Cornwall.
Perranporth Beach provides a scenic backdrop for sunbathing, surfing and bodyboarding. The beach has a relaxed atmosphere with beginner-friendly waves. Perranporth is a great beach to learn to surf because of the gentle slope and beach break.
There are several surf schools and hire shops located on the beach, and the town is also close by which has toilet facilities and plenty of food options.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months. Tunes in the Dunes is hosted on the beach every May
Where to park | Car park on the Promenade also parking by Co-op and by Texaco
Where to stay | Anchor Barrow Campsite
Perran Sands (Penhale Sands)
A neighbour to Perranporth Beach which connects at low tide to create an expansive stretch of golden sand. Often, a quieter spot than Perranporth beach, Perran Sands is a place to escape the crowds during the busier months.
When the tide comes in there are steps that scale the towering sand dunes overlooking the beach. The Penhale Dunes are one of the largest dune systems in Cornwall and a site of special scientific interest.
Good to know | Lifeguards during the summer months. Cut off from Perranporth Beach at high tide.
Where to park | Car park on the Promenade in Perranporth or Perran Sands pay and display car park
Where to stay | Perran Sands holiday park (Haven)
Porthtowan Beach
The turquoise waters, local cafés and tidal pool make Porthtowan a great beach for all beach lovers. Renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, it attracts wave riders from near and far, popular for its curling waves and beach break.
Porthtowan Beach is enclosed by dramatic cliffs and surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. When visiting Porthtowan it is also worth popping into the locally owned Tris surf shop which is located right on the beachfront and Nature’s Treats gift shop. Walk up west cliff road for spectacular views overlooking the beach and cliffs.
Good to know | Tidal pool is only accessible during low tide
Where to park | Porthtowan Beach car park.
Where to stay | Porthtowan Tourist Park.
Chapel Porth Beach
This beach has one of the most dramatic and perhaps iconic Cornish views with its rugged cliffs, golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Chapel Porth offers a dramatic and picturesque setting and from above feels like the beach is a long distance away.
Chapel Porth Beach is famous for its iconic Wheal Coates engine house, adding a touch of history to its natural beauty. It is an idyllic spot for exploring, swimming, and enjoying the stunning Cornish coastline.
Walking from the cliffs above past Wheal Coates is a must, the blues of the ocean below against the golden sand is an iconic Cornish image. During high tide, the water covers the beach and as such Chapel Porth is best explored at low tide.
Good to know | High tide cuts off the majority of the beach, check the tide times before you visit.
Where to park | National Trust Chapel Porth Beach car park.
Where to stay | Beacon Cottage Farm Holidays.
Towans BEACH
Towans Beach is split into three areas, Sandy Acres Beach, Mexico Towans and Upton Towans offering more than 3 miles of golden sand and producing fantastic surfing conditions.
The beach has consistent waves, a sandy bottom and reliable breaks making it a popular spot for surfers of all levels. Set against the backdrop of rolling sand dunes, ‘Towans’ means dune in Cornish.
It provides an unforgettable experience for wave riders. There are several surf schools and cafés nearby and explore Godrevy lighthouse and Mutton Cove for a chance to spot some seals.
Need to know | Lifeguarded during the summer months. Fantastic beach to learn to surf.
Where to park | National Trust Godrevy or The Rockpool.
Where to stay | Three Mile Beach.
Godrevy BEACH
Godrevy Beach is renowned for its exceptional surfing opportunities. With its exposed location to the Atlantic Ocean, it receives consistent swells that create powerful waves. Surfers flock here for the challenging breaks and long rides.
The beautiful surroundings, including the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse, add to the allure of this popular surfing destination. If you are a national trust member then you can park for free in the two nearby car parks. Head to Godrevy Point and beyond where you can often spot seals on the beaches below.
Need to know | Lifeguarded during the summer months.
Where to park | National Trust Godrevy or Godrevy car park (Toilets also available here).
Where to stay | Gwithian Farm Campsite.
Gwithian Beach
Gwithian Beach is a prime destination for surfing enthusiasts. Located north of Towans Beach, it is popular for windsurfers and is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean resulting in consistent swells, providing ideal wave conditions.
The sandy bottom and variety of breaks cater to surfers of all levels. Connected to Towans Beach at low tide, Gwithian is accessible by climbing down the rocks next to the lifeguard hut, or other access points closer to the National Trust car park. Because of the cliffs surrounding the beach, Gwithian is often sheltered from the winds.
Need to know | Lifeguarded during the summer months.
Where to park | National Trust Godrevy or Godrevy car park (Toilets also available here).
Where to stay | T C James & Sons Churchtown Farm Caravan & Camping Site and Gwithian Farm Campsite.
The South Coast
Sennen Cove
The west-facing Sennen Cove is a surfers' paradise. It receives consistent Atlantic swells, producing excellent waves for surfing. The sandy beach and reliable breaks make it suitable for surfers of all abilities.
Surrounded by stunning cliffs and natural beauty, Sennen Cove is a family-friendly beach with soft golden sand and turquoise waters. There are places to eat and surf shops in the town.
We would recommend parking at Sennen Top car park as the lower car parks can become full very quickly and the top car park has much more space and pretty nice views at sunset.
Good to know | Lifeguarded during the summer months.
Where to park | Sennen Top car park.
Where to stay | Trevedra Farm Caravan & Camping Site.
Gwynver Beach
Gwynver Beach is a little more hidden than Sennen Cove, despite being right next door. Most visitors have no need to venture further than Sennen and as such Gwynver can feel much less busy. It offers powerful and consistent waves that attract experienced riders.
Its secluded location and challenging breaks make it a favourite among the surfing community. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and pristine natural beauty, Gwynver Beach provides a thrilling and picturesque surfing experience.
Don’t forget to stick around for sunset as they are often incredible. At high tide, the beach does slope steeply into the ocean. Sennen Cove is a better beach for families.
Good to know | Lifeguarded during the summer months.
Where to park | Gwynver Beach Parking (No large vans). Park at Sennen if you have a van.
Where to stay | Trevedra Farm Caravan & Camping Site.
PorthGwarra
Porthgwarra is a quaint and picturesque coastal village with its very own beautiful cove. Known for its secluded cove and crystal-clear waters, it offers a tranquil and idyllic setting. Visitors can explore the charming fishing cove, enjoy breathtaking cliff walks, and appreciate the stunning natural beauty.
Made famous as a filming location for the popular Poldark series. Walking down to the beach through a cave tunnel is also a highlight of visiting Porthgwarra. There is also a lovely café selling pasties and tasty treats.
Good to know | Walking from Porthcurno Beach to Porthgwarra along the coastal path is a must.
Where to park | Porthgwarra car park
Where to stay | Treen Farm Camp Site
Porthchapel Beach
Porthchapel Beach is in a secluded and stunning location. A lesser-known beach than its popular neighbour Porthcurno, its golden sands, turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs offer a picturesque setting for beachgoers.
Its remote location makes it less crowded, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife. This was one of the first places we spotted the Cornish chough making it a memorable location.
Good to know | Secluded beach makes it a must-stop when walking the South West Coast Path.
Where to park | Porthgwarra car park or Porthcurno Car Park.
Where to stay | Treen Farm Camp Site.
Porthcurno
Porthcurno is a coastal paradise renowned for its breathtaking beauty in Cornwall. Often regarded as the jewel in the crown of Cornish beaches, with its pristine sand, clear turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs, it offers a postcard-worthy setting.
The area is also home to the iconic Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs, providing a unique cultural experience in addition to natural splendour. Walking up the steps to the Minack offer the best and most impressive views of Porthcurno down below.
Good to know | Lifeguarded during the summer months.
Where to park | Porthcurno pay and display car park.
Where to stay | Treen Farm Camp Site.
Pedn Vounder
Pedn Vounder is a hidden gem nestled between towering cliffs. Often overlooked because of the ease of access to Porthcurno. Pedn Vounder is accessible via a challenging hike and there is a climb down a dusty path with a final scramble down a rock face.
While its popularity has vastly increased over the last few years, Pedn Vounder is still regarded as the best beach in Cornwall and has also been named one of the best beaches in the world! Pedn Vounder is popular amongst the nudist community because of its hidden location.
Good to know |Pedn Vounder is not lifeguarded.
Where to park | Treen pay and display car park.
Where to stay | Treen Farm Camp Site or Treen car park which allows overnight parking for campervans.
Bessy’s Cove
Bessy’s Cove is steeped in history and folklore, it consists of a series of secluded coves and rocky cliffs. There are plenty of rocky areas to sunbathe on and enjoy watching the tide come and go.
Enjoy exploring hidden caves, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Cornwall's coastline. Walk from Perranuthnoe Beach car park for a beautiful coastal walk past the Stackhouse Baths perfect for a sheltered dip and views of St Michael’s Mount.
Good to know | Prussia Cove is a beautiful spot nearby
Where to park | Small car park next to Porth An Alls Camping and Perranuthnoe Beach car park for a long coastal walk
Where to stay | Porth An Alls Camping
Praa Sands
Praa Sands is a stunning beach with expansive golden sands and clear waters. Popular among surfers and water sports enthusiasts, it offers great waves for riding and ample space for relaxation.
The beach is lined by beautiful dunes and surrounded by picturesque coastal scenery. Praa Sands provides a perfect seaside escape in Cornwall and when the water is calm the beach is great for SUPing.
Good to know | Lifeguarded during the summer months
Where to park | Praa Sands Beach pay and display car park
Where to stay | Praa Sands Holiday Park
Polurrian Beach
Polurrian Beach in Cornwall is a picturesque and family-friendly sandy beach. Surrounded by cliffs, it offers a sheltered spot for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is known for its clean waters and is popular for rock pooling and exploring.
Walk from Polurrian to Mullion Cove along the South West coast path for incredible views of the beaches below.
Good to know | Dramatic views from the South West Coast path above.
Where to park | Mullion Cove car park.
Where to stay | Polurrian on the Lizard and Mullion Cove Hotel & Spa.
Kynance Cove
Kynance Cove is a true natural wonder. Its turquoise waters, golden sandy beach and dramatic cliffs create a breathtakingly beautiful setting. Thanks to its natural beauty, it has become a popular attraction and there is a large car park.
The walk to Kynance Cove is along a scenic route which takes you on a walk downhill (and back up on the way back) which takes around 10 to 15 mins and we’d recommend packing light as there are quite a few steps down to the beach.
Kynance Cove offers opportunities for swimming, exploring tidal pools and enjoying the stunning coastal scenery that Cornwall is renowned for. The cove can become cut off at high tide, there are warning signs for this and make sure you check the tide times.
Despite its popularity, Kynance is well worth a visit and best enjoyed outside of the peak summer holidays and in the mornings and evenings for a chance to enjoy it with less crowds.
Good to know | There are toilets and a café located on the beach.
Where to park | National Trust Kynance Cove car park.
Where to stay | Trerise Farm "Camp & Pitch", Housel Bay Hotel
Gyllngvase Beach
Gyllyngvase Beach is a popular and family-friendly destination. With its soft sandy shores and calm waters, it's ideal for swimming, sunbathing and building sandcastles.
The beach is bordered by a bustling promenade with cafes and amenities, providing a lively and friendly atmosphere for visitors of all ages. If the weather is not so great, there is plenty to keep you entertained in Falmouth including Pendennis Castle to keep you occupied.
Good to know | Visit Gylly Beach café for delicious food and beautiful views
Where to park | Gyllyngvase Long Stay car park.
Where to stay | St Michaels Resort and Greenbank Hotel
Lantic Bay
Lantic Bay is a beautiful secluded beach along the South West Coast Path. Its pristine sandy beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters and rugged cliffs create an untouched landscape worthy of a visit.
Accessible via a scenic hike, it offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a quiet coastal escape. There are a lot of steep steps down to the beach and the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking views.
Good to know | The walk from the car park is a challenge and requires a good level of fitness.
Where to park | National Trust Lantic Bay car park.
Where to stay | Treen Farm Camp Site.
Save this article to read later on Pinterest!
More of Cornwall
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to refuel after a day on the waves, Newquay’s food scene has options for everyone. Enjoy pizza while watching the sunset on the beach, savour gourmet meals, or delight in a traditional afternoon tea—all of this and more can be found in Newquay.