Every Beach In Cornwall

Mother Ivey’s Bay

Location

Mother Ivey's Bay, Trevose Head, Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8SL

Description

The bay takes its name from the legend of Mother Ivy who was a local wise woman and lies just around the coast from Harlyn Bay where you’ll find car parking and facilities (20 mins).

Cushioned from the wind by the Merope Rocks, Mother Ivey’s Bay lies in a sheltered location framed by stunning coastal scenery where the soft sandy beach is ideal for both summer sandcastles and romantic winter walks. Due to the lack of facilities here, the bay rarely gets too crowded even on the busiest summer days. 

Beach Type

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly

Dog friendly all year round

Parking

No parking, a good place to park may be at Harlyn Bay 

Great Western Beach

Location

Great Western Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 2NE

Description

Great Western is one of four Newquay beaches popular with both surfers and families alike, with caves in the surrounding cliffs and rock pools to explore at low tide.

This west-facing beach is situated between Towan and Tolcarne beaches. The best way to reach this destination is either by walking along the sands at low tide or via a tarmacked path to the left of the Great Western Hotel.  

Lifeguards are stationed at the beach between 19th May and 30th September (2018)

Beach Type: 

Sandy Beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

The nearest parking is Newquay station, which is across the road   

Porthcurno Beach

Location

Porthcurno Beach, Porthcurno, Cornwall, TR19 6JX

Description

Good Beach Guide Recommended 2015: Described by some as being a paradise, Porthcurno, located in the far west of Cornwall has won many awards and it’s easy to see why. With gorgeous fine soft white sand washed by a sea that turns turquoise in the sun and high cliffs on both sides providing shelter, it’s an oasis of stunning natural beauty.

The large beach, popular with families, has a stream that flows down one side which is great for kids to paddle in and upon the cliffs is the internationally renowned Minack Theatre, built in the 1920s by theatrical visionary Rowena Wade and her faithful gardener, which you can visit all year round.

Logan Rock, famous for its 80-ton granite rocking stone, is a 30-minute walk away from round the bay to the left and the fascinating Porthcurno Telegraph Museum that tells the story of Cornwall’s role in the pioneering days of global communications is located just before you get to the main car park. 

Lifeguard cover from the 19th of May until the 30th of September (2018).

Poldark Connection:

Described by some as being a paradise. It’s easy to see why the location manager picked it for Nampara Cove. With gorgeous fine soft white sand washed by a sea that turns turquoise in the sun and high cliffs on both sides providing shelter, it’s an oasis of stunning natural beauty. In episode two, Demelza and Ross find themselves walking along Porthcurno in a dream sequence on a spectacular sunny day. 

Beach Type: 

White sand

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between 1 May and 30 September (08:00 am - 07:00 pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place (2018).

Parking: 

The car park is a short downhill walk away from the beach 

Pentewan Beach

Location

Pentewan Beach, West End, Pentewan, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6BX

Description

Over half a mile of east-facing sandy beach, mostly in front of Pentewan Sands Holiday Park, suitable for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, sea canoeing and with a slipway for sailing (canoes and dinghies available for hire).  Free car parking, cafes and toilets are provided in Pentewan village 500 metres from the beach along the old harbour lane with disability access. 

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are only allowed on this beach between the first Sunday in November and 01 February - outside this time all dogs are banned from the beach - this beach is privately owned.  The owners have the right to change this policy at any time, therefore please check directly for any changes to this policy.

Parking: 

Free parking 500m walk away 

Treyarnon Bay Beach

Location

Treyarnon Bay, Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8JR

Description

A lovely clean, north-west facing, sandy beach surrounded by low cliffs and backed by sand dunes. This popular family beach offers an expanse of fine sand at low water with plenty of nooks to discover.  It is a short walk around the point from Constantine Bay to the north.

This surf spot is popular from mid to high tide.

Lifeguards on duty, May 5th to 30th September (2018)

Easy level access from the car park. A sand chair is available for disabled visitors. Phone 07583 218891 for details.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

Car park next to the beach 

Port Gaverne Beach

Location

Port Gaverne, Port Isaac, Cornwall, PL29 3RH

Description

 A National Trust owned beach that has remained almost unchanged in hundreds of years is popular with families as it has plenty of rock pools.  Once a thriving port landing slate and coal and a thriving fishing port for pilchards.  The origin of the name Gaverne is thought to have come from 'Karn Hun' meaning rocky haven and is still spelt 'Port Gavern' by a few locals - pronounced 'gay-vernes'. 

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

Limited street parking. The closest car park is 5-minute walk in Port Isaac 

Trevaunance Cove Beach

Location

Trevaunance Cove Beach, St Agnes, Cornwall, TR5 0RU

Description

Trevaunance Cove is the main beach at St Agnes and a family best-kept secret. With the old harbour and a labyrinth of caves to explore, there's plenty to keep the kids amused and at low tide, there is the opportunity to walk to the neighbouring northerly beach of Trevellas Porth.  A large area of rocks is revealed at low tide.  Access is down a slight incline.

Lifeguard cover from the 19th of May to the 30th of September (2018).

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach with rocky areas 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog-friendly all year, but recommended dogs being kept on leads during busier periods 

Parking: 

Small car park near the beach as well as another car park which is a five-minute walk away

Readymoney Cove Beach

Location

Readymoney Cove Beach, Fowey, Cornwall, PL23 1EB

Description

Readymoney Cove is a southeast-facing sandy beach to the south of the harbour town of Fowey. It is sheltered by cliffs close to the mouth of the River Fowey Estuary and bounded, on one side, by the medieval town of Fowey and, on the other, by St Catherine's Castle.  The beach can be covered during spring tides. The beach is cleaned daily during the high season, and a bathing platform is moored in the bay. 

A small cafe/shop is open during the summer.

Toilets

Beach Type: 

Small sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between July 1st and August 31st when a seasonal ban is in place 

Parking: 

One close car park and additional parking is close to Fowey town centre 

Prussia Cove

Location

Prussia Cove Beach, Rosudgeon, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 3EL

Description

Secluded and romantic, Prussia Cove has an old-world poetic feel and is famous as being the home of the Carter family, The family were smugglers in the 18th century, one of whom, Harry Carter became known as the King of Prussia.

Formerly called the King's Cove, Prussia Cove is on the coast of Mount's Bay to the east of Cudden Point.   It is a small, quiet and intimate place that could not support larger numbers without being ruined. No lifeguard cover, but surf rescue equipment located on the beach. There is a small privately-owned car park, reached along a narrow single track road, which is usually full by mid-morning in the school holidays. There are no facilities. The coves are at least ten minutes walk from the car park but space and access to these depends on the tide.

Beach Type: 

Rocky beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are allowed all year round.

Parking: 

Small private car park about 400m away from the cove 

Downderry Beach

Location

Downderry Beach, Downderry, Looe, Cornwall, PL11 3JR

Description

A wide, straight beach made up of shingle and sand with rock pools at low tide. A sea wall along the back of the beach gives walking access to Seaton to the west. Downderry has a shop, cafes and a pub. Parking and toilets in the centre of the village.

Beach Type: 

Sand and shingle beach with rock pools 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

One small car park in Downderry, with larger car parks available in Seaton 

Poldhu Cove Beach

Location

Poldhu Cove Beach, Mullion, Cornwall, TR12 7HZ

Description

Poldhu Cove, also known as Black Pool Cove, is a lovely west-facing sandy beach suitable for lots of fun activities from building sandcastles to beach volleyball and rocks to explore low tide and great for swimming, surfing and windsurfing (in the designated zone).

Lifeguards man the beach between 19th May and 30th September (2018)

With the imposing former hotel on Poldhu Point to the south and the Mullion Golf course to the north access to the flat, sandy beach is from the car park across the road. A few hundred metres along the southern cliff (Angrouse Cliff) lies the monument to the great inventor Marconi who sent the first wireless signal.  Swimming and surfing are possible here taking care when there is a low tide.  

Poldhu Cove is owned and looked after by the National Trust and is able to care for and conserve areas like this thanks to its members, volunteers and donors.

Please note: Dogs are welcome on this beach except between Easter Sunday and 30 September (07:00 am - 07:00 pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs allowed except between July 1st to August 31st 

Parking: 

One car park located near the beach 

Swanpool Beach

Location

Swanpool Beach, Swanpool, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 5BG

Description

Swanpool is a sandy cove on the outskirts of Falmouth and proud of its friendly, fun and welcoming environment.  

You can walk the dogs on leads and take the kids around the Swanpool nature reserve to feed the ducks and the swans.

There's a large car park, 18 holes crazy golf course, a beach cafe and a safe beach for all you swimmers! You can put the kids on the fun bouncer or hire kayaks, or simply relax on the beach.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between Easter Sunday and September 30th when a seasonal ban is in place  

Parking: 

One car park near the beach 

Hemmick Beach

Location

Hemmick Beach, Veryan, Cornwall, TR2 5QA

Description

Hemmick is a secret sandy beach that is south-west facing, accessed by a steep road from the small car park that is reached by narrow country lanes from Boswinger, west of Gorran Haven and just 9 miles from St Austell.

Plenty of tiny coves to explore at low tide. The car park is situated about 1/4 mile up a steep lane (suggest drop off/pick up your own passengers at the beach).

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

There is a small national trust car park which is a fifteen-minute walk away from the beach 

Chapel Bar Beach

Location

Chapel Bar Beach, Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8DB

Description

Chapel Bar lies at the mouth of the River Camel in North Cornwall, a 10-minute walk from Padstow between Chidley Pumps (Lower beach) and St George's Well Cove.

At low tide, a vast, wide expanse of sand is revealed which stretches around 1½ miles. There are fine views of the Camel estuary from the beach with Daymers Bay on the opposite side of the estuary. At high tide, most of the beach is submerged and the 'Doom Bar' sandbank, which protects the estuary from the strength of the Atlantic.

All facilities are located in the town of Padstow.

Beach Type:

Sandy beach

Dog Friendly:

Seasonal bans apply

Parking: 

Car parks nearby

Portscatho Beach

Location

Portscatho Beach, Portscatho, The Roseland, Cornwall, TR2 5LW

Description

Scenic village beach facing east on the beautiful Roseland peninsula overlooking Gerrans Bay. Portscatho Beach is mainly rocky, with sandy patches. Beyond the village, the beach stretches all the way up the bay to the sandy Porthcurnick Beach at low tide. Lovely walks also around the small village harbour at Portscatho and along the South West Coast Path.

Please note: Dogs are welcome on this beach except between Easter Day and 30 September when a seasonal dog ban is in place.

Beach Type: 

Mainly rocky with sandy patches 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are not allowed on the beach from July 1st to the 31st of August between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm 

Parking: 

One small car park which is a ten-minute walk from the local village 

Sandymouth Beach

Location

Stibb, Sandymouth, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 9HW

Description

When the tide is at its lowest, it is possible to take in the spectacular coastline between Bude and Sandymouth by walking the two miles along the beach. Returning by the coast path makes it a very pleasant, circular walk. Sandymouth is a National Trust beach and has a large, manned, car park with 200 spaces at the top of the cliff.

The walk down to the shore leads you through a quite steep and narrow path, with some steps, which makes Sandymouth unsuitable for those who are less mobile. This lovely beach has its own waterfall and is serviced by a seasonal café, toilets and surf-hire.

Lifeguard cover from the 19th of May until the 30th of September (2018).

Sandymouth is owned and looked after by the National Trust and is able to care for and conserve areas like this, thanks to its members, volunteers and donors. Car park free to National Trust members.

Beach Type: 

Pebble and sand beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

One car park a which is only a few minutes away when walking 

Hayle Towans Beach

Location

Hayle Towans Beach, Hayle, Cornwall, TR27 4DE

Description

Hayle Towans (Towans is the Cornish word for dunes) also known as Upton Towans and can be accessed from several different places in Hayle.

Lifeguard cover is provided from the 5th of May until the 30th of September, 10 am - 6 pm.  Part of the Towans is adjacent to the river estuary where you should avoid swimming due to dangerous currents.

The most commonly surfed spot on this stretch of beach is 'The Site' named after the caravan site in the dunes behind. Being more sheltered from the swell than Gwithian and Godrevy, plus facing a little more north, makes 'The Site' a good choice when there's a big north coast swell and the wind is due south. On a good day, you'll get really long walling lefts and rights but you'll be doing a good deal of paddling too. Tends to be better towards high tide.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly:

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between 1 May and 30 September (08:00 am - 07:00 pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place between Hayle River and Black Cliffs.

Parking: 

Multiple pay and display car parks around the area and close to the beach 

Mullion Cove Beach

Location

Mullion Cove Beach, Mullion, Cornwall, TR12 7EP

Description

There is a great cave to explore at low tide where waves often crash through from the seaward entrance. Mullion Cove is around 5 miles from Lizard Point, the southerly-most point on mainland Britain.

At Mullion follow the directions to keep on the B3296 to Mullion Cove. Park in the car parks and walk down the road to the harbour, taking about 5 minutes.

Owned and looked after by the National Trust, this charity is able to care for and conserve areas like this thanks to its members, volunteers and donors.

Beach Type: 

Small pebble and sand beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are allowed all year round in the harbour as long as they are on leads 

Parking: 

Two car parks nearby 

Fistral Beach

Location

Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1HY

Description

Say the word Fistral to any avid surfer and you can guarantee their eyes will widen in awe. As one of the world’s top surfing destinations, backed by high cliffs and sand dunes, Fistral is the playground for hundreds of enthusiasts who flock to the beach to get a fix of the big waves. All the big UK surf competitions take place here including Boardmasters, the Quicksilver Skins, the UK Pro Surf Tour and the BUSA Championships so if you’re a gung-ho pro or just a timid beginner, this is the ideal place for you to show off or take your first tentative dip in the ocean. Bodhi's Beach Cafe offers a range of drinks and snacks throughout the main holiday seasons.

Overlooked by the imposing grandeur of the Headland Hotel, the beach is bookended by two headlands that funnel in powerful, hollow waves which regularly reach heights of between 6 and 8 feet. Onshore there are plenty of opportunities to book surf lessons or hire gear and a complex of cafes, takeaways and shops is located on the beach.

Lifeguard cover on Fistral Beach from the 30th March - 28th October. Lifeguard cover on South Fistral Beach from the 7th of July until the 30th of September (2018). 

Sand chairs are available from Fistral Surf Hire Shop. Telephone: 01637850584

Sand chairs are provided by Cornwall Mobility in partnership with Disability Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

One car park is located right next to the beach, however, there are cheaper alternatives which are within walking distance from the beach 

Mawgan Porth Beach

Location

Mawgan Porth, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 4DA

Description

A large west-facing beach with plenty of sand at high tide and popular with families.  Backed by the steep headland cliffs, Mawgan Porth offers a sheltered stretch of beach halfway between Newquay and Padstow.  

Weekend lifeguard cover in April. Full lifeguard cover from the 5th of May until the 30th of September. Weekend lifeguard cover in October and full cover from the 20th-28th of October (2018).

Sand chairs are available from Betty's News. Telephone: 01637860240

Sand chairs are provided by Cornwall Mobility in partnership with Disability Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

Two car parks nearby 

Porth Joke Beach

Location

West Pentire, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 5EQ

Description

A small attractive cove, also known as Polly Joke, is north-west facing and less busy than other beaches nearby.

The beach is a 15-minute walk from the nearest parking - there is a National Trust car park on Cubert Common or private pay & displays at West Pentire.

Porth Joke is excellent for rock pooling and has caves to explore. The beach is also suitable for swimming, bodyboarding, surfing and fishing.

Sheep graze in the dunes behind the beach so please keep dogs under control.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

One small car park near the beach, two other car parks are available at West Pentire

Portholland Beach

Location

Portholland Beach, Portholland, The Roseland, Cornwall, TR2 5QA

Description

Two small, secluded beaches of grey stones and rocky outcrops backed by a granite sea wall serve the tiny hamlets of East and West Portholland inhabited by just forty local residents.

Clinging to the coves in which they are situated they bask in glorious sunshine during Spring through until Autumn.  Look out for the locals offering tea and cakes from the house.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach with some rock pools

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

Ample parking along the beach with additional car parks nearby 

Helford Passage Beach

Location

Helford Passage Beach, Helford, Cornwall, TR11 5LB

Description

The Helford is one of the most picturesque estuaries in Cornwall and this beach is situated in a naturally beautiful area favoured by walkers, wildlife fans and boat lovers alike.

The small sand and shingle beach is accessible at low tide beside the very popular 300 hundred-year-old Ferry Boat Inn where you can sit back with a cool drink and watch the children play safely on the beach just yards away.

Located on the north side of the estuary where the ferry crosses the river from Helford Passage to Helford, the beach is a popular launching place for motorboats and small yachts and from the village, you can hire boats by the hour or for a full day. The South West Coast Path passes nearby with a wonderful walk westwards up the estuary towards the village of Gweek and strolling inland just a mile away are the sub-tropical gardens at Glendurgan.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

One car park which is about a five-minute walk away from the beach 

Perranporth Beach

Location

Perranporth, Cornwall, TR6 0AQ

Description

It’s the beach everyone raves about and billed as a great place for surfing, snorkelling, sailing and generally splashing around. So what's the attraction? Well, the miles of really golden sand is probably a good start, plus the huge surf, the sand dunes etc. etc. Yes, it’s a pretty impressive place. Starting from the village, it’s easily accessible which is ideal if you’ve got young ones in tow and you could just plonk yourself on the sand close to the village, put down your beach towels and relax. The beach cafe, The Watering Hole, serves snacks and drinks throughout the main holiday seasons. If the tide’s right out, do the place justice and have a walk up the beach to Ligger Point, just a 2-mile jaunt away.

Because the beach is so huge, it almost feels as if you have the place to yourself and the fresh air of the ocean is exhilarating. Early in the morning, you’ll probably see a few horses and their riders having a paddle in the surf and there’s a welcome cafe for a coffee stop halfway along. You can make the return journey (or if the tide’s in) over the extensive sand dunes which are teeming with wildlife taking pictures of butterflies and lizards.

Weekend lifeguard cover in April. Full lifeguard cover from the 5th of May until the 30th of September. Weekend lifeguard cover in October and full cover during the week of the 20th-28th October (2018).

Sand chairs are available from Perranporth Gardens. Telephone: 07881521730

Sand chairs are provided by Cornwall Mobility in partnership with Disability Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog-friendly all year round, however, dogs must be kept on leads between July and August, 9 am - 5 pm

Parking: 

Many car parks nearby 

Lantic Bay

Location

Lantic Bay, Polperro, Cornwall, PL13 2QU

Description

If you’re up for a bit of a hike then Lantic Bay will reward you with one of the most stunning locations in Cornwall without a doubt.

Use the NT car park a mile east of Polruan near Fowey and take the well-marked footpath across the road and into a field. The great reveal is made as you walk over the brow of the hill, and there below you is a sand and shingle beach in a cove cut into towering cliffs smothered with gorse and windswept hawthorns. The trek down to the beach is steep and takes around 20 minutes so take your time and enjoy the view.

Once you reach the shoreline, just stretch out on the beach, look skywards and daydream - it’s that kind of place. For romantic souls it’s perfect, if you want some “me” time it feels suitably remote and for active kids, it’s a real adventure.

Please be aware if swimming, that the beach shelves steeply and currents can be strong.

Lantic Bay is owned and looked after by the National Trust and is able to care for and conserve areas like this thanks to its members, volunteers and donors. Car park free to National Trust members. 

Beach Type: 

White sands

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

Two small national trust car parks 

Gwynver Beach

Location

Gwynver Beach, Near Sennen, Cornwall, TR19 7DG

Description

Thought to get its name from Guinevere, wife of the legendary Cornish King Arthur, the beach is located at the base of steep granite cliffs and accessed by a steep path from above.  This means that the beach is never too crowded.

Providing some of the best surfing conditions in Cornwall, Gwynver attracts experienced locals with its ever-present large waves. Lifeguards provide cover during the summer months and their advice should also be sought before going in the water. Located in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the beach itself is sandy and around 150 metres long, at low tide it joins up with its neighbouring beach at Sennen. The right-hand side of the beach is dominated by the rocky headland of Aire Point, through which passes the South West Coast Path heading towards Cape Cornwall and providing spectacular views from the cliffs, and on fine days the Isles of Scilly.

Lifeguard cover from the 19th of May until the 30th of September (2018).

Beach Type: 

White sand beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

One car park above the beach 

Rock Beach

Location

Rock, Nr Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8QL

Description

The village of Rock opposite the popular town of Padstow has been dubbed ‘Kensington by the Sea’ and is the haunt of celebrities such as Hugh Grant, Harry Enfield and Jemima Khan. The Rothchilds have holidayed here and even royalty have sunk a few beers in the local pubs all of which gives the village a slightly jet-set atmosphere. The long sandy beach that fronts the village is a popular destination for swimmers and sun-seekers while out on waters of the Camel Estuary yachtsman, windsurfers and water skiers enjoy the breeze. From the beach there are fantastic views up and down the wide estuary, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and bird watchers paradise, and nearby is a clutch of trendy bars, cafes and restaurants. To the right and along the coast there are spectacular walks across the sand to Daymer Bay and Polzeath and from the village,

there’s a small ferry that makes the short trip over to Padstow.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

One car park nearby 

Porthtowan Beach

Location

Beach Road, Porthtowan, Cornwall, TR4 8AD

Description

Located within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this Blue Flag award-winning beach is one of Cornwall’s most popular surfing beaches bordered by soft golden sand and backed by large dunes and dramatic cliffs. From the beach at low tide you can walk to the neighbouring and equally stunning beach at Chapel Porth and apart from the large expanse of sand which is perfect for a game of rounders or cricket, there’s a children’s play park at the top end of the beach making Porthtowan a firm family favourite.

The coastal footpath skirts over the cliffs heading east to St Agnes and west to Portreath with spectacular views out over the sea. Situated on the shore is the popular Blue Bar, a relaxed beachside café where you can grab a drink and watch the sun go down.

Weekend lifeguard cover in April. Full lifeguard cover from the 5th of May to the 30th of September. Weekend lifeguard cover during weekends in October and full cover during the week of the 20th-28th of October (2018).

Beach Type:  

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

A seasonal dog ban applies on this beach from Easter Sunday until the 30th of September 

Parking: 

One large car park which is close to the beach 

Northcott Mouth Beach

Location

Poughill, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 9EL

Description

Ruggedly beautiful, Northcott Mouth is a rocky cove, but a sandy beach emerges when the tide is out.

At low tide, the wreck of the SS Belem is revealed. Wrecked in November 1917, the propeller shaft was salvaged and used as metal support for Barrel Rock at the end of Bude Breakwater! Children will delight in the little stream crossing the beach and the rock pools, while surfers will enjoy the waves created by rocky reefs. This National Trust beach has a small car park adjacent to it with an “honesty” box for contributions. There are no toilet facilities. In the summer months, there is a delightful tea caravan with a rustic garden set back from the beach.

Lifeguard Cover from the 7th of July until the 2nd of September (2018).

Beach Type: 

Pebble and sand beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round 

Parking: 

One car park which is a few minutes walk away from the beach 

Lusty Glaze Beach

Location

Lusty Glaze Beach Road, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 3AE

Description

Lusty Glaze beach has been crowned BEACH OF THE YEAR 2017 by The Times and The Sunday Times.

Leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind you, kick off your socks and shoes and feel the sand between your toes, pause for a moment and breathe in the fresh salt air…

Time spent at this sheltered cove is always time well spent. Starting life as a working mine, Lusty Glaze has transformed many times over the years, most recently with current owners Tracey and Jeremey Griffiths, going from a derelict site to a beautiful beach resort and wedding venue.

Today the beach is home to a wide range of outlets, providing ample opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy the beach and make lasting memories. At the heart of the resort lies the bar and restaurant, relaxed, intimate and friendly with gasp-inducing views and sunsets. You can enjoy many culinary delights year-round either by the roaring log burner or in the afternoon sunshine.

For those looking for a little more adventure on their visit to the cove, The centre located down on the sand provides activities both water and cliff based! From surfing to abseiling and much more in-between, so for a fun-filled day or even a team-building exercise this centre is the place for you.

Lifeguard cover from the 7th of July until the 2nd of September (2018).

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

One car park close to the beach 

Godrevy Beach

Location

Godrevy Beach, Hayle, Cornwall, TR27 5ED

Description

Hayle boasts three miles of golden sand and owing to its northernmost position Godrevy, owned by the National Trust,  takes the brunt of the Atlantic swell and is one of the more exposed beaches of the North coast.  From buckets and spades on sunny summer days to classic rugged Cornish splendour on a stormy winter's day, Godrevy offers the ultimate outdoor experience.

The sandy beach at Godrevy is connected to Gwithian beach at lower tides to create an impressive stretch of sand. Remember to check the time of high water. as hundreds of metres of sand all but disappear at high tide so don't get caught out. The beach terminates with a low rocky headland and the famous Godrevy lighthouse (of Virginia Woolfe's To The Lighthouse fame) on an island just off the coast. Godrevy Cafe provides drinks and snacks during the main holiday seasons.

Given the right conditions, the waves can be epic - long walling lefts and rights. It is also capable of holding a fair-sized swell, up 8ft. However, this doesn't mean you'll have an easy paddle out! The break is at it's best on a low tide where it can produce a fast hollow wave. It does work through the tide but becomes increasingly slopey and bouncy.

Godrevy is quite well known for its clean upsets that seem to come from nowhere and catch everybody out. The peak also moves around a fair bit which works both ways - you can spend all day chasing it around or alternatively sit and wait for the wave of the day to come and find you. For some reason, the beach attracts weird forms of surf craft such as goat boats!

Godrevy is owned and looked after by the National Trust and is able to care for and conserve areas like this, thanks to its members, volunteers and donors. Car park free to National Trust members.

Lifeguard cover from the 19th of May until the 30th of September (2018).

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly:

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between 1 May and 30 September (08:00 am - 07:00 pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place between Red River and the lighthouse (2018).

Parking: 

One car park close by which is open all year, in the summertime, the national trust opens up two fields which are used for parking near the beach

Widemouth Bay Beach

Location

Marine Drive, Widemouth Bay, Widemouth, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 0AW

Description

Widemouth Bay is a very long open bay popular with families and surfers and at low tide, there are hundreds of rock pools to explore. 

Situated just 3 miles south of Bude and accessible along the South West coast path, Widemouth Bay offers fantastic conditions to learn surfing or body-boarding, which is why many of the local surf schools are based there. It has also received the Blue Flag Beach Award 2017. 

Viewing areas with free car parking are located at both the north and south end of the bay so you can enjoy the fantastic panorama without getting your feet sandy! Surfers will experience a variety of peaks from the north to the south end of the beach, breaking on sand or reef, producing spilling or heavy barrelling waves.  You'll also spot the Black Rock landmark.

Suitable for: Beginners to experienced surfers. Dangers: High tide rocks in the middle of the beach and at the Black rock. Rips are also near there. Crowded in the busy season. Tides: Surfable at Mid to high tide. Wind: E/SE offshore.

Weekend lifeguard cover in April. Full lifeguard cover from the 5th of May until the 30th of September. Weekend lifeguard cover in October and full cover from the 20th-28th of October.

Please note: Dogs are welcome throughout the year on the southern section of the beach (Black Rock).  The northern part operates a seasonal dog ban between Easter Sunday and 30 September (2018).

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach with areas of rocks

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are banned on this beach from the 15th of May to the 30th of September between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm. However, dogs are allowed all year at the black rock which is the south part of the beach

Parking: 

Two car parks right by the beach

Harlyn Bay Beach

Location

Harlyn Bay Beach, Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8SQ

Description

Considered one of the best family beaches in Cornwall, Harlyn Bay is a wide and spacious beach of yellow sand and pebbles with plenty of interesting rock pools backed by dunes and situated on the eastern side of Trevose Head, just west of Padstow.

With its reputation as one of the safer beaches in the county, the crescent-shaped bay is popular with novice surfers who can learn to master the waves with surf schools that run sessions from the beach. There’s a fascinating combination of rocky shoreline, sand, dune and tide pools to explore and the beautiful bay is also an unbeatable location to have a go at sea kayaking. For walkers, there are delightful routes from the beach to Mother Ivey’s Bay and Trevose Head

The southeast corner of Harlyn village provides the access to the beach next to a stream that flows onto the beach. The remains of an old iron age cemetery were discovered behind the beach below the sand. The cliffs at Trevose Head give superb views towards Pentire Head and Newquay.

Weekend lifeguard cover in April. Full lifeguard cover from the 5th of May until the 30th of September. Weekend lifeguard cover in October and full cover from the 20th-28th October (2018).

Surfing Information

When the swell is big on the west-facing beaches and the wind is from a southwest direction, Harlyn will be the best wave around. The horseshoe-shaped bay produces waves from low through to high providing rights off a rock at the east end of the beach - fast and sucky waves with a ledgy take off, to a peak in the middle producing lefts and rights which are hollow and fast.

Suitable for: All levels. Dangers: crowds, hollow waves breaking into shallow water, rocks, rips at high tide. Tides: Surfable at all tides. Wind: S/SW offshore.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

There is one car park right next to the beach, there is also an additional large field car park which is just opposite the beach. 

Hannafore Beach

Location

Hannafore Beach, Looe, Cornwall, PL13 2DG

Description

With its long promenade and accessible sea wall, the seafront at Hannafore is a great place to spend a few hours. The beach itself is shingle with some sandy stretches at low tide. It's also great for rock pooling with easy access to large shallow pools full of starfish, crabs and prawns.

There are two seasonally open cafes, a putting green, tennis courts and from here you can start the walk along the SWCP to Polperro, about five miles away.

Beach Type: 

Rocky beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

There is road parking available as well as a car park in West Looe 

Crooklets Beach

Location

Crooklets Beach, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 8LE

Description

A wide expanse of golden sand is exposed at low tide, bordered by rocky outcrops ideal for rock-pooling. Crooklets is at the north side of Bude and can be reached by a short walk over the Summerleaze Down or down the hill from the town centre.

Crooklets is very popular with surfers and is home to the Bude Surf Life Saving Club. It has lifeguards from 19th May to 30th September (2018)

The beach has great facilities including a large car park, level access and viewing area, a play area, skate park, beach cafe, showers, amusements and pubs close by.  

There are various beach huts available for daily hire, from just £10 - £20 per day.  Please call the Tourist Information Centre on 01288 354240 to book.

A sand chair is available for disabled visitors. Call 01288 352226 (June - September)

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach with rock pools

Dog Friendly:

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between Easter Sunday and 30 September when a seasonal dog ban is in place.

Parking: 

One big car park right next to the beach 

Mexico Towans Beach

Location

Mexico Towans Beach, Hayle, Cornwall, TR27 5AG

Description

Mexico Towans forms part of a glorious four miles of sand that starts from the mouth of the Hayle estuary and reaches out to the lighthouse at Godrevy Point. Situated between Hayle Towans and Upton Towans, the beach is backed by magnificent sand dunes, known as 'Towans.'

Surfing, swimming and walking along the beach are popular, but avoid swimming in or near the estuary to the south, where there are dangerous currents.

Lifeguards are on duty here from 19th May to the 30th September as well as on neighbouring beaches. (2018)

Dogs are allowed all year round on the central stretch of the beach but there are restrictions at the southern end near the estuary and towards Gwithian to the north. Please check the signage.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are allowed all year round on the central stretch of the beach but there are restrictions at the southern end near the estuary and towards Gwithian to the north. Please check the signage.

Parking: 

Car parks nearby to the beach

Summerleaze Beach

Location

Summerleaze Beach, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 8HN

Description

Summerleaze has a unique appeal, not least because it is less than five minutes’ walk from the centre of Bude and the large car park leads directly to the sand dunes. The river, with its bobbing fishing boats, flanks the wide, sandy beach that is sheltered by the impressive breakwater, making the beach particularly popular with families and surfers. Beach Huts are bookable daily or weekly from £10 - £20 per day. Contact the Bude Tourist Information Centre on 01288 354240

Level access with a flat viewing area, toilets, RNLI shop, sandy play area and beach café all add to the charm of Summerleaze. Another gem is the sea pool nestled at the foot of the cliffs. Part man-made and part natural rock pool, the salt-water pool, cleaned daily by the tide, has enticed swimmers since it opened in 1930.

Sand chairs are available from Summerleaze Beach Office (June-September) Telephone: 01288352226.

Sand chairs are provided by Cornwall Mobility in partnership with Disability Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. 

Lifeguard cover is provided on the beach and at the pool over the Easter weekend and from the 5th of May until the 30th of September. There is also a weekend lifeguard cover in October and full cover from the 20th-28th of October (2018).

There is disabled access from the car park, disabled toilets and a disabled sand chair is also available from the Summerleaze Beach Office  01288 352226.

Surfing Info: Good when everywhere else is maxed out. Right-handers at mid-tide also lefts at low tide. Suitable for: Beginners through to experienced surfers. Dangers: North of beach rocky, also sea pool hidden at high tide, with rocks in the pool. Strong rip (river) and also crowded in the busy season. Lots of bouncing, cross waves.

Tides: Surfable at all tides. Wind: E/SE offshore.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach with rock pool

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs must be on leads from 21st May to 30th September from 10 am-6 pm.

Parking: 

Long stay car park nearby 

Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach

Location

Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach, Helston, Cornwall, TR12 7QG

Description

Gunwalloe is owned and looked after by the National Trust and is able to care for and conserve areas like this thanks to their members, volunteers and donors. Car park free to National Trust members.

The tiny church of St Wynwallow, with a detached tower set into the solid rock of the headland, is located to the north side of the beach hence the name Church Cove.

Lifeguards man the beach between 7th July and 2nd September (2018).

Poldark Connection:

Gunnwalloe on The Lizard relived its smuggling past when Aidan Turner and a hoard of other cast members and extras descended to film night-time ship wrecking scenes. An attractive sandy cove overlooked by the tiny church of St Wynwallow.

Beach Type: 

Sandy cove

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between Easter Sunday and 30 September (07:00 am - 07:00 pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place.

Parking: 

No parking available nearby 

Gorran Haven Beach

Location

Gorran Haven Beach, Gorran Haven, Nr St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6JG

Description

East facing the sand beach, popular with families for swimming and surfing. However, there is no lifeguard cover provided. There is a beach shop, pub, car parking for 500 vehicles and toilets. Kayaking is very popular at this sheltered bay with reasonable hire rates. Access to the beach from a car park 400 metres down a slight incline. Gorran Haven is a popular stop-off point along the South West Coast Path.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

This beach is dog friendly, however, they must be kept on leads between Easter Sunday and the 30th of September 

Parking: 

One large field car park which is a five-minute walk away 

Bossiney Cove Beach

Location

Bossiney Cove, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0AX

Description

The cove has a small sandy beach which is completely covered by the tide at high water and access to the beach is via a footpath over farmland and then by steep steps, a route which is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.  From the beach see if you can spot Elephant Rock hidden in the cliff face.  

At the right-hand side of the cove, there is a great cave to explore that is about 60 feet high at the entrance but only 15–20 feet wide. It opens up into a large cavern with two more caverns which become very dark. The cave continues after this point but the floor becomes rock and very uneven.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

Car parking available in a nearby field

Cawsand Beach

Location

Cawsand, Torpoint, Cornwall, PL10 1LE

Description

There is quite a bit to do in Cawsand and its neighbour Kingsand including locating the ancient county border.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are banned from Easter Sunday until the end of September 

Parking: 

The car park is within 300m of the beach

Porthcurnick Beach

Location

Porthcurnick Beach, Rosevine, Portscatho, The Roseland, Cornwall, TR2 5EW

Description

Beautiful south-east facing sandy cove, owned by the National Trust, Porthcurnick Beach is just north of Portscatho on the beautiful Roseland peninsula. Many rockpools, ideal for children and water activities. Access via a short walk from the car park. Other smaller beaches nearby are only accessible at low tide, so make sure you know the time of high water.

A slipway provides access for watercraft.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach with rock pools

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

Car park located within a five-minute walk of the beach

Towan Beach - The Roseland

Location

Towan Beach - The Roseland, Bohortha, The Roseland, Cornwall, TR2 5LW

Description

Towan Beach is a quiet, south-east facing beach near St Mawes on the Roseland Peninsula.

At high tide, it is a sand and shingle beach, with rock pools revealed at low tide. This beach should not be confused with Towan Beach, Newquay on the north coast.

Towan Beach is located at the southernmost tip of Gerrans Bay near the beaches of Porthbeor and Portscatho that can be reached on foot via the South West Coast Path.

Refreshments provided Easter to October each year - teas, coffees, cream teas, cakes and bakes etc. 

Beach Type: 

Sand/pebble beach with rock pools at low tide

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly all year round

Parking: 

One small car park located near the beach 

Sennen Cove Beach

Location

Sennen Cove Beach, Land's End, Cornwall, TR18 3EL

Description

As you approach the village it’s not long before you spot the huge blue rollers heading towards the shore which makes Sennen Cornwall’s most westerly surf hotspot. With a long, sandy beach and small harbour, the village combines a working fishing port with laid back surf style.

On the beach, there are top rate surfing conditions and safe bathing within flagged areas which are moved frequently to follow tidal movements while along the seafront, cafes, restaurants, pubs, galleries and shops provide the onshore niceties. The Pedn-men-du, a promontory that protects the cove from the westerly Atlantic gales, is a popular haunt for climbers and in the village, the lifeboat station established over 150 years ago is open to visitors in summer.

Although it is a popular spot so it can get very crowded, Sennen’s friendly atmosphere makes for a relaxed day at the beach in one of the UK’s most breathtaking locations.

Lifeguard cover from the 30th of March until the 28th of October (2018). 

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between 1 May and 30 September (08:00 am - 07:00 pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place (2018).

Parking: 

Both a beach car park as well as a harbour car park

Upton Towans Beach

Location

Upton Towans Beach, Hayle, Cornwall, TR27 5AX

Description

Upton Towans beach is situated near Hayle in West Cornwall. The beach reaches a low rocky headland and the lighthouse on an island just off the coast. Ideal for surfing and safe for bathing and backed by sand dunes and adjacent holiday camping sites.

Lifeguard cover from the 19th of May until the 30th of September (2018).

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach

Dog Friendly: 

Dog friendly apart from seasonal ban between Easter day and the 1st of October

Parking: 

Car park in the caravan park behind the beach 

Porthminster Beach

Location

Porthminster Beach, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 2BN

Description

This crescent of golden sand, framed by a glittering bay, has glorious views across to Godrevy Lighthouse, inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s famous novel ‘To the Lighthouse’. With the benefit of the mildest climate in the UK along with waving palm trees and translucent waters, there is a definite tropical feel to the place.

Located just a short walk from the centre of St Ives, the award-winning Blue Flag beach at Porthminster is a family favourite for safe swimming while onshore you can simply relax in a deck chair or try your skill at the mini 18 hole golf course where you can also order up freshly made juices and smoothies. If you’re feeling peckish the beach is also home to the Porthminster Beach café.  Serving up great local food, some of which is grown in their adjoining vegetable garden, the café has won many prestigious awards such as Coast magazine’s Best Coastal Café and The Times’ Best Coastal Restaurant.

Lifeguard cover from the 19th of May until the 30th of September (2018).

Sand chairs are available from Porthminster Beach Cafe. Telephone: 01736795352

Sand chairs are provided by Cornwall Mobility in partnership with Disability Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between the first Sunday before Easter and 30 September when a seasonal dog ban is in place (2018).

Parking: 

Car park overlooking the beach, but can get very busy. Try parking at St Erth or Lelant Saltings and enjoy the scenic branch line that runs right into St Ives and a short stroll down to the beach.

Polkerris Beach

 

Location

Polkerris Beach, Polkerris, Fowey, Cornwall, PL24 2TL

Description

A sheltered harbour beach in the small village of Polkerris, overlooking St Austell Bay, with a stone quay providing shelter. Located about 2 miles west of Fowey, 6 miles from St.Austell and 20 miles from Looe. This sandy beach is ideal for families, with facilities, including a slipway, right by the beach, watersport equipment for hire and water sports tuition available. Facing southwest, the beach is perfect for late afternoons and glorious sunsets throughout the year. The beach has a pub, seafood restaurant and take away cafe and therefore offers a range of food and drink options.

Boasting a host of facilities including watersports equipment hire and tuition, toilets, a café, shop, seafood restaurant and pub.

Metal detectors are also only permitted between October and March inclusive.

BBQs and Bonfires are not permitted on the beach.

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

This beach has a seasonal dog Ban. Dogs are permitted on the beach between October and March inclusive.

Parking: 

Car park within a five minute walk away from the beach 

Porth beach

Location

Porth Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 3NH

Description

Porth beach, on the east side of Newquay, is very popular with families and has a large area of flat golden sand that offers safe bathing.

Porth has level access to the beach and there is pleasant walking around Porth Island. 

Lifeguard cover between the 19th of May and the 30th of September 

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between May 1 to September 30 when a seasonal dog ban is in place and dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10 am to 6 pm 

Parking: 

One car park right next to the beach and another one within a few minutes walk of the beach

Praa Sands Beach

Location

Praa Sands Beach, Penzance, Cornwall, TR20 9TQ

Description

When you take the short walk from the car park to Praa Sands you’ll be struck by how white the sand is, it is almost blinding sunshine. Apparently, and here’s the science, the light sand is made from seashells that have been pulverised by wave action over millions of years. Located in the southwest-facing bend between the Lizard and West Penwith, the mile-long sandy beach is backed with sheltering sand dunes and its easily accessible position is enjoyed by families having fun in the shallows while further out the surf brigade take on some surprisingly big waves. 

A wonderful destination if you have kids to entertain, they’ll love the beach which is great for sandcastles, the shoreline is great for splashing about in and you won’t have to walk miles from the car park. Also, it’s a pretty good stop-off point just for a coffee where you can sit back and soak up the sun.

Lifeguard cover during weekends in April. Full lifeguard cover from 5th of May to 30th of September. Weekend lifeguard cover in October and during the week of the 20th-28th of October (2018).

Beach Type: 

Sandy beach 

Dog Friendly: 

Dogs are welcome on this beach except between Easter Sunday and 30 September (07:00 am - 07:00 pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place

Parking: 

Four car parks located at the western end of the beach