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Last summer, we spent four months living in our campervan in the lovely coastal village of Perranporth in Cornwall. A summer close to the ocean was made of wonderful memories and moments that we will never forget. It gave us a taste of what life is like by the sea. At the time, we discovered that the Perranporth has much more to offer than its beautiful beaches, ice cream and fish and chips!
This quaint seaside village of Perranporth has become one of our favourite places in Cornwall and we are lucky enough to say it's one of our closest beaches since moving to Cornwall in April. Perranporth is located next to Penhale Dunes which is one of the largest dune systems in Cornwall. The dunes create a beautiful backdrop to Perranporth Beach and are a truly unique place for events like the Tunes in the Dunes music festival.
Perranporth was the inspiration for Winston Graham the author of the Poldark novels, who was born in the village and the novels are based on the surrounding areas. Perranporth is named after the patron Saint of Cornwall Saint Piran, ‘porth’ in Cornish means bay, port or harbour. Read our guide on the best places to eat in Perranporth.
Our detailed guide includes the best things to do in Perranporth, shops, attractions, scenic spots and the best places to stay. If you’re looking to explore more of Cornwall, read our top 20 things to do in Cornwall, the best beaches guide, Vanlife in Cornwall, the best tidal pools, surfing beaches and the best shops in Newquay.
Where is Perranporth?
Perranporth is a small seaside village on the north coast of Cornwall, located between St Agnes and Newquay. A popular destination for tourists in the summer season, the location of Perranporth is convenient and connected to the nearby village of Goonhavern via the Saints Trail and nearby roads.
What is Perranporth known for?
This coastal village is known for its beautiful golden sand beaches and breathtaking scenery surrounding it. Perranporth Beach is a three-mile-long beach, known as one of the most beautiful in Cornwall, ideal for families and great for many watersports activities including surfing, bodyboarding, swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking.
Explore the edges of the beach and you’ll discover caves, arches, rockpools and the iconic Chapel Rock which holds the Cornish flag, also known as Saint Piran’s flag. Chapel Rock has a beautiful tidal swimming pool for those who want to enjoy a calm swim without the ocean waves.
When is the best time to visit Perranporth?
It is always worth checking the tide times before visiting Perranporth Beach, at low tide there is access to the tidal pool and access to Perrans Sands which is a lovely walk and gets cut off during high tide.
In the summer months, it can get very busy with visitors due to its convenient location not far from the A30 and is ideal for families. Perranporth Beach is dog-friendly, however, in July and August, dogs must be kept on a lead on the main section of Perranporth Beach.
The spring months of April, May and June are some of the best months to visit Perranporth. The warmer weather makes it much more pleasant to enjoy the beach and watersports available with fewer crowds outside the school holidays, especially Easter and May Bank holidays.
In the autumn and winter months, fewer visitors come to enjoy these spectacular views and you may have many of the places listed below almost all to yourself! Early autumn can be a great time of year to walk along the South West Coast Path and in winter it’s best to find a cosy pub with ocean views to watch the ferocious stormy ocean waves.
HOW TO GET TO PERRANPORTH?
Perranporth is conveniently close to the A30, which is the main dual-carriageway road in and out of Cornwall. The nearest towns to Perranporth village are Newquay, St Agnes and Truro.
By Car
If you are driving from London to Perranporth it will take 5 hours 15 minutes, 3 hours from Bristol and 1 hour 45 minutes from Exeter. The main route from Bristol is the M5 southbound, following the A30 at junction 31 near Exeter and finally the B328 to Goonhavern/Perranporth. Once you leave the A30 it will take around 15 minutes to arrive at Perranporth.
Currently, there are roadworks on the A30 that are due to be completed in June 2024. Consider this when planning your visit as it may take longer than usual.
When you arrive in Perranporth there are several places to park your car. The most convenient and popular car park is the Promenade car park, located next to the beach and with free toilets. There is a height barrier of 2.13 metres and a weight restriction of 3500kg, the car park fills up fast, so make to get there early.
The Droskyn car park also located next to Perranporth Beach is found at the top of Cliff Road, there are toilet facilities near the sundial open in the summer months.
Wheal Leisure car park has no height restrictions and is ideal for motorhomes and campervans, however, they are prohibited from 11 pm to 8 am.
An overflow car park is located behind the larger Co-op by the roundabout and has a 2.4 metre height barrier. There is also a long-stay car park by the Perranporth Rugby Club, opposite where the Saints Trail ends.
Campervans and Motorhomes can park at the Texaco petrol station overnight, just go inside and ask the staff for current prices. At the end of the article, we have included our favourite campsite for campervans to enjoy whilst visiting Perranporth.
By Train and Bus
There are two options when using public transport in Cornwall to get to Perranporth, either take a train to Newquay or Truro and from there catch a bus. Take the U1 bus from Newquay to Perranporth, alternatively from Truro to Perranporth take the U1 or U1A and both journeys will take around 45 minutes. The main bus stop in Perranporth is located on Beach Road opposite the Promenade car park.
By Plane
Newquay Airport is the closest airport to Perranporth and serves domestic and international flights. From the airport, there are two options, either catch bus 56 to the Great Western Hotel in Newquay, followed by the U1A to Perranporth. Alternatively, you can hire a car at the airport or get a taxi to Perranporth Beach.
HOW TO GET AROUND PERRANPORTH?
Perranporth is relatively small and easy to get around on foot. There are various footpaths through the village along the main high street where you’ll find shops, pubs and cafés with everything you’ll need for your visit.
By Public transport
There is a regular bus service which runs through Perranporth connecting to nearby towns and villages such as Newquay, St Agnes, Truro and Goonhavern. The best way to check the bus timetables is on the First Bus website which has a journey planner to help you find the best route for your trip.
By Car
Hiring a car around Perranporth is the most convenient option if you are arriving at the airport or by train. This will allow you to explore around Perranporth and discover places that are more off the beaten track. Driving in Cornwall can be a bit more challenging, there are narrow country roads which are unsuitable for larger vehicles and many are single-track lanes with passing places. The best car parks in Perranporth are listed in the section above.
What facilities are there in Perranporth?
Perranporth has everything you need during your stay, with a good variety of services and facilities. The village benefits from two Co-ops, a Londis and Premier convenience store stocked with all of your food and drink needs. There is a local butcher on the high street with all you will need for a BBQ and they also sell incredible pasties. For larger supermarkets, the nearest is in Truro and Newquay where you’ll find the most common supermarkets including Morrisons, Aldi, Sainsbury's etc.
Other services in Perranporth include Boots Pharmacy for any medical needs and a Doctor's surgery ‘Perranporth Surgery’ all of which are located on Beach Road. For any pet emergencies, St.Clement Vets is only open on weekdays. There are three cashpoint machines, one is located in Co-op, another in the Premier convenience store and the final one is outside the shop, Marshalls.
Best Things to Do in Perranporth
Perranporth beach
A stunning stretch of sand, Perranporth Beach is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall. Spanning the length of 3 miles at low tide, this spectacular golden sand beach is ideal for spending the day making sand castles, sunbathing, surfing and exploring the rock pools.
Before you visit Perranporth Beach, make sure to check the tide times, even though this beach is not completely covered at high tide it’s worth being aware especially if you plan to walk along to Perran Sands which is the adjacent beach which is cut off during high tide. There is the option to walk back along the South West Coast Path from Perran Sands to Perranporth Beach.
Lifeguards patrol Perranporth Beach from May to September allowing you to swim, safe in the knowledge that you are being monitored by the lifeguards. It’s worth familiarising yourself with what each beach flag means to ensure your safety and those around you, this will ensure you aren’t swimming where surfers could collide with you.
Curious to see what Perranporth Beach looks like right now? Check this webcam from the Watering Hole to see the current conditions and weather at Perranporth Beach. If you have a dog, you must ensure that during July and August, they are kept on a short lead in the main area of the beach.
Perranporth tidal pool
A must-visit is the Perranporth tidal pool, head to Chapel Rock the large isolated rock which erupts from the sand next to where the Bolingey and Perrancoombe streams meet the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re unsure, look out for the Cornish flag (white cross on a black background) standing proudly signalling swimmers to the location of the uniquely shaped Perranporth tidal pool.
The tidal pool is inaccessible during high tide, check the tidal times before your visit to ensure you can get in and out of the pool safely. The nearest car park is the Promenade car park which is pay and display. Read our guide to other incredible tidal pools in Cornwall including swimming safety tips and essential gear.
Watering Hole
Famed to be named the UK’s only bar on the beach, the Watering Hole is a favourite with locals and visitors alike, grab and drink and enjoy the feeling of sand between your toes whilst watching the waves roll in. The Watering Hole hosts live music sessions throughout the year. It also serves hot food and is a popular spot to watch the sunset, there are large renovation works currently in progress that are planned to complete in 2025. *Come back soon to read our food guide to Perranporth
Cligga Head
From Perranporth Beach take the coastal path south-west towards Cligga Head and follow the path along Cliff Road to enjoy wonderful views of Perranporth Beach from above. En route, you will pass the YHA Hostel at Droskyn Head where smugglers would hide contraband in the caves below. Shag Rock provides some of the best views of Perranporth Beach and is a wonderful place to watch the sunset.
In the spring and summer months, the South West Coast Path is bordered with vibrant flowers such as yellow gorse in the spring, later in the year heather and pink sea thrift also known as sea pink, which are an incredible contrast to the turquoise blue water below. Continue along the path to Cligga Head and discover the rich heritage of the Cornish mining past, Tin was extracted in narrow shafts below the ground and today mesh cones cover the old mines which allow bats to pass through them and prevent people from falling below.
Perranporth Boating Lake
Located more inland from the coast, Perranporth has a quaint boating lake which opens mid-July for visitors to rent rowing boats on the lake amongst ducks and geese and is surrounded by scenic gardens. There are several benches and the park is a wonderful place for a picnic or to enjoy some fish and chips.
EXPLORE THE HIGH-STREET SHOPS
The village high street of Perranporth is mostly located on St Pirans Road, there are a variety of cafés and shops to explore. Several surf hire shops are located on this street including Bathsheba Surf which is part of the ‘Surf Wood for Good’ campaign by Dick Pierce to use a sustainable alternative to cheap polystyrene boards. This initiative allows you to try a Dick Pierce wooden belly board for free in selected locations in exchange for ID. Other shops on the high street include an eco shop called All You Can Eco, gift shops such as Brocante and Atlantic Blankets, a charity shop, a bakery, ice cream parlours, bike hire and butchers.
Tunes in the Dunes Festival
Cornwall holds some of the best festivals and celebrations every year, from live music festivals to some of the most unique celebrations across the county. One of the most talked about festivals in Cornwall, Tunes in the Dunes has got to be in one of the best locations right on Perranporth Beach.
Previous headliners include well-known artists such as Kaiser Chiefs, James Bay, Freya Ridings, The Vaccines and Scouting for Girls in 2023. The atmosphere is friendly and fun and a unique experience where you can enjoy dancing barefoot in the sand to your favourite tunes. Tunes in the Dunes 2024 will be held from the 17th to 19th of May with headliner acts including Craig David, McFly and Ocean Colour Scene.
Cycle the Saints Trail to Goonhavern
A great way to explore the surrounding area of Perranporth is by bike, the Saints’ Trail Way was opened in April 2023 and connects Perranporth to Goonhavern along a 3-mile trail that follows the old Perranporth to Chacewater railway line.
It’s a beautiful cycling route that follows the river for some of the trail and passes through woodland, valleys and quaint villages. The route takes around 20 minutes one way and we’d recommend stopping by Gorse Bakery in Goonhavern for a delicious treat and is also a great place for lunch.
The route is relatively flat for most of the way with a few small hills, the paths are mostly wide and gravel allowing you to pass other users safely including walkers and other cyclists along the way.
Perran Sands
The largest stretch of sand in the area, Perran Sands is also known as Penhale Sands and can be accessed at low tide from Perranporth Beach. Walk along the South West Coast Path towards Holywell at high tide for beautiful views over Chapel Rock and the largest dunes in Cornwall. Perran Sands is usually much quieter than Perranporth Beach as it is further from the main car parks and ideal to escape the summer crowds.
There is historical significance, as it is where Saint Piran landed after being cast out of Ireland. Today, St Piran is the patron saint of Cornwall and Perranporth is named after him. Behind the dunes is Haven Perran Sands Holiday Park and a small car park at the furthest end of the beach. Visit St Piran’s Oratory, built for Saint Piran also known as the patron saint of the Tin miners and is a chapel that was built in the 6th century.
Where to Stay in Perranporth
ANCHOR BARROW CAMPSITE
Anchor Barrow Campsite is a family-run business owned by Levi and Tony, Tony is also the local butcher in Perranporth. It’s a wonderful campsite near Perranporth, located just outside of Perranporth the campsite is in a great location surrounded by countryside and a short walk into the village.
The campsite is ideal for walking along the South West Coast Path, popping into Perranporth or exploring further along the coast. There are large fields to pitch up your tent or campervan and also offer the option to hire beautiful bell tents for your stay.
The campsite has all the facilities you will need including modern showers (no need for coins), toilets and a great indoor/outdoor eating area serving delicious breakfast and tasty dinners which change throughout the week accompanied with live music and a bar. There are also laundry facilities, a fridge/freezer, charging lockers, a shop, an electric car charging station and a washing-up area. The shop also offers firepits and BBQs to rent and there is a field with football nets and a ping pong table inside the converted barn. Book your stay at this lovely campsite to experience it for yourself.
YHA PERRANPORTH
YHA Perranporth Hostel has the most amazing views of Perranporth Beach and Perran Sands. It is only available for exclusive hire and can sleep up to 17 people in total with 5 bedrooms and each room is set up with bunk beds. There is a kitchen and dining area which means you can save money on eating out and there are toilets and showers. The location is incredible, set on the cliff top with parking for a few cars, you have direct access to the South West Coast Path and a short walk to Perranporth Beach.
Seiners Arms
A little bit worn on the outside, but on the inside there is a cosy pub with wonderful sea views. The Seiners Arms is right on the beachfront, with an outdoor terrace to enjoy a drink. The rooms at the Seiners Arms come with a complimentary breakfast, free WiFi and parking. If you’re staying on a Sunday, we’d highly recommend trying their Sunday roast.
Chapel Rock View Apartment
The Chapel Rock View apartment has spectacular views over Perranporth Beach and Chapel Rock, located in a prime spot in Perranporth, this apartment is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset from the balcony. The apartment can accommodate up to four people, with bathrooms, a washing machine, a kitchen and allocated parking.
The Annexe at Tenniside
The Annexe at Tenniside is a modern and cosy holiday home located in Perranporth, with a private outdoor garden, including a hot tub. The property has everything you’ll need for your stay including a kitchen, bathroom, free WiFi and a place to enjoy dinner outside in the evening.
Utopia Apartments
A beautiful cottage property with three separate apartments to choose from, this 200-year-old property boasts sea views and is self-catering, each apartment has its own kitchen and living room.
