Beaches in Cornwall

Cornwall's Coastal Gems

Cornwall’s 250-mile coastline features diverse geological formations, from the serpentine rock of Kynance Cove to the white shell-sand of Porthcurno. This collection includes world-renowned surfing hubs like Fistral Beach and sheltered family spots such as Porthminster. Many locations, including Nanjizal and Pedn Vounder, are accessible only via the South West Coast Path, offering secluded coves and natural rock arches. The list spans the rugged Atlantic north coast and the calmer, wooded estuaries of the south.

Cornwall's Coastal Gems — Map

Andy Wright / CC BY 2.0

A

Kynance Cove. ****

Kynance Cove is a cove on the eastern side of Mount's Bay, Cornwall, England.

Kevin Yuen / CC-BY-SA

B

Porthcurno

This charming southern beach with its golden sands is an ideal outing if you want to soak up the summer sun.

Nilfanion / CC BY-SA 4.0

C

Fistral Beach

Newquay's primary surfing destination, hosting international competitions. The beach is backed by high sand dunes and the historic Headland Hotel.

D

Porthminster Beach

A sheltered, Blue Flag beach located near St Ives railway station, offering views across the bay to Godrevy Lighthouse.

E

Sennen Cove

The most western point of England is especially popular with surfers. Can get crowded during high season.

Kevin Yuen / CC BY-SA 4.0

F

Porthmeor Beach

A north-facing beach in St Ives, situated directly in front of the Tate St Ives art gallery and popular with surfers.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

G

Nanjizal or Mill Bay

A remote cove near Land's End accessible only by foot. It is known for the 'Song of the Sea,' a dramatic natural rock arch.

H

Swanpool Beach

A sand and shingle beach on the outskirts of Falmouth, separated from a brackish lagoon and Site of Special Scientific Interest by a narrow road.

myself / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Daymer Bay

Daymer Bay is a bay and a beach on the east side of the River Camel estuary in north Cornwall, England, United Kingdom.

J

Gyllyngvase Beach

Falmouth’s largest beach, characterized by calm waters and the sub-tropical Queen Mary Gardens located immediately adjacent to the sand.

K

Holywell Beach

An expansive beach backed by high dunes, featuring a holy well hidden in a sea cave and the twin Gull Rocks offshore.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

L

Perran Beach

A central part of Perranporth's three-mile sandy stretch, featuring Chapel Rock which contains a small natural tidal bathing pool.

Nilfanion / CC BY-SA 4.0

M

Porthcurnick

A secluded sandy cove on the Roseland Peninsula, accessible via the coast path from Portscatho and home to the Hidden Hut.

Olaf Tausch / CC BY 3.0

N

Padstow

Padstow is a town, civil parish and fishing port on the north coast of Cornwall, England, United Kingdom.

O

Pedn Vounder

A tidal beach famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water and sandbars. It is overlooked by the Logan Rock headland and requires a steep descent.

P

Carbis Bay Beach

A sheltered beach located in a wooded valley. It is served by its own stop on the St Ives Bay branch line railway.

Q

Porth Kidney Sands

A north-facing beach between Carbis Bay and Lelant. It is dog-friendly year-round and offers views across the Hayle Estuary.

R

Mawgan Porth

A west-facing beach flanked by high cliffs, featuring a freshwater stream that runs across the sand into the Atlantic.

S

Porthmissen Beach

Also known as Trevone Bay, this sandy beach features a large natural tidal swimming pool carved into the rocks on the western side.

T

Treyarnon Beach

A sandy cove surrounded by low cliffs, featuring extensive rock pools and a deep natural swimming pool at the northern end.

Other Lists

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