Cornwall’s stunning coastline is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. With over 300 miles of golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, there’s a perfect beach for everyone.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best beaches in Cornwall, from family-friendly spots to secluded coves. We’ll also answer some of your most frequently asked questions about Cornwall’s beaches.
(Note the location is the nearest Town. For example Watergate Bay is about 3 miles from Newquay).
Pedn Vounder Beach – Penzance
This stunning, secluded beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine sands, reminiscent of a Caribbean paradise. Accessible only by a steep footpath, it offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Watergate Bay – Newquay
Watergate Bay is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with a variety of activities on offer, including surfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The two-mile stretch of sand also provides plenty of space for beach games and relaxation.
Holywell Bay – Newquay
Famous for its impressive sand dunes and the iconic Gull Rocks, Holywell Bay is a beautiful, family-friendly beach with plenty of space for sandcastle building and beach games.
Polzeath Beach
Popular with surfers and families alike, Polzeath Beach is a vast expanse of golden sand, offering excellent surfing conditions, rock pools to explore, and plenty of amenities nearby.
Porthtowan Beach
Nestled between dramatic cliffs, Porthtowan Beach is a Blue Flag beach known for its fantastic surf and stunning sunsets. The village of Porthtowan provides a range of facilities, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination.
Carbis Bay, St Ives
Carbis Bay boasts calm, turquoise waters and soft sands, making it perfect for families and those looking for a more tranquil beach experience. The nearby town of St Ives offers a wealth of amenities and attractions.
Praa Sands, Breage
This mile-long beach features golden sands and excellent surf, making it a popular destination for families and water sports enthusiasts alike. Praa Sands is also dog-friendly during the off-peak season.
Kynance Cove, The Lizard Peninsula
Famed for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, Kynance Cove is a truly breathtaking spot. At low tide, the cove reveals sandy beaches and fascinating rock formations, making it a must-visit location.
Porthpean Beach, St Austell
A sheltered, south-facing beach, Porthpean is perfect for families, offering safe swimming and rock pools to explore. The nearby town of St Austell provides plenty of amenities and attractions.
Porth Joke Beach, Newquay
Also known as Polly Joke, this secluded, unspoiled beach is a hidden gem, perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility. With no facilities, it offers a true escape from the crowds.
Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth
This Blue Flag beach in Falmouth is popular with locals and tourists alike, boasting golden sands and calm waters. The beach offers a range of facilities, including a café and watersports equipment hire.
Summerleaze Beach, Bude
With its unique Sea Pool, Summerleaze Beach in Bude is an excellent choice for families, providing a safe swimming environment. The beach also offers a range of facilities and is close to the town center.
Pendower Beach, The Roseland Peninsula
This beautiful, south-facing beach is a haven for wildlife, boasting rock pools, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. Pendower is an ideal choice for those looking to explore Cornwall’s natural beauty.
Whitsand Bay, Torpoint
Stretching over three miles, Whitsand Bay offers dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and excellent surf. The bay is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and seals.
Sennen Cove, Land’s End
Just a short distance from the iconic Land’s End, Sennen Cove is a popular surfing spot and boasts a beautiful sandy beach. The nearby village offers a range of facilities and attractions.
Fistral Beach, Newquay
As one of the UK’s most famous surfing beaches, Fistral Beach attracts surfers from around the world. Its wide sands and excellent facilities make it a world standard beach.
Harlyn Bay, Padstow
Harlyn Bay is a sheltered, crescent-shaped beach, popular with families and surfers alike. The beach offers a range of facilities, including a surf school, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Godrevy Beach, Hayle
Located on the eastern side of St Ives Bay, Godrevy Beach is a popular spot for surfers, wildlife watchers, and beachgoers. The nearby Godrevy Point offers stunning views and is home to a colony of grey seals.
Porthminster Beach, St Ives
With its soft sands, calm waters, and stunning views of Godrevy Lighthouse, Porthminster Beach is a favorite among families and sunbathers. The nearby town of St Ives offers plenty of attractions and amenities.
Perranporth Beach
This expansive, sandy beach is popular for its excellent surf conditions and range of facilities, including a beach bar and surf school. Perranporth Beach is also dog-friendly, making it a perfect choice for visitors with furry friends.
Marazion Beach
Marazion Beach is best known for its stunning views of St Michael’s Mount and provides a beautiful, sandy expanse for beachgoers to enjoy. The beach is also popular for water sports, including kite surfing and paddleboarding.
Porthmeor Beach, St Ives
Located in St Ives, Porthmeor Beach is a favorite among surfers and beach lovers alike. The beach offers a range of facilities, including a surf school and beachside café.
Mawgan Porth Beach, Newquay
Mawgan Porth Beach is a beautiful, sheltered cove, perfect for families and surfers. The beach offers a range of facilities, and the nearby village provides plenty of amenities and attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Which is the nicest beach in Cornwall?
A: This is subjective, as everyone has their own preferences, but popular choices include Kynance Cove, Porthminster Beach, and Carbis Bay.
Q: Where is the clearest water in Cornwall?
A: Some of the beaches with the clearest water in Cornwall are Pedn Vounder, Kynance Cove, and Porthcurno.
Q: Which side of Cornwall has the best beaches?
A: Both the north and south coasts of Cornwall have stunning beaches, each offering a unique experience. The north coast is known for its dramatic cliffs and excellent surf, while the south coast boasts picturesque coves and calmer waters.
Q: What is the cleanest beach in Cornwall?
A: Many of Cornwall’s beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status, which indicates high standards of cleanliness and water quality. Some examples include Gyllyngvase Beach, Porthtowan Beach, and Porthmeor Beach.
Q: Which beach in Cornwall looks like the Caribbean?
A: Pedn Vounder Beach is often compared to Caribbean beaches due to its turquoise waters and fine sands. Kynance Cove is another beach that shares similar characteristics, with crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.
Q: Which beach in Cornwall looks like Greece?
A: Carbis Bay, with its calm turquoise waters and golden sands, is often compared to beaches found in Greece, offering a Mediterranean feel on the Cornish coast.
Conclusion:
Cornwall is home to a diverse array of stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
From the world-famous surf at Fistral Beach to the secluded beauty of Pedn Vounder, its full of hidden gems.
Whether you’re a seasoned beach lover or planning your first visit to Cornwall, be sure to add some of these coastal gems to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
