Beaches in Cornwall are stunning and varied. The expansive, windswept sands of the north coast, such as those found at Perranporth and Godrevy, are perfect for surfing and refreshing walks on a breezy winter’s day.
- Introduction
- Reasons Why Beaches in Cornwall Matter
- Top 10 Beaches in Cornwall to Visit this Summer
- Porthcurno Beach
- By Car
- By Public Transport
- By Bike
- On Foot
- Tips for Visiting
- Harlyn Bay
- By Car
- By Train
- By Bus
- By Plane
- Cycling and Walking
- Tips
- Mawgan Porth Beach
- By Car
- By Public Transport
- By Foot or Bicycle
- Parking:
- Sennen Beach
- By Car
- By Public Transport
- By Bike or Foot
- Tips
- Godrevy Beach
- Tips for Visiting Godrevy Beach
- Praa Sands Beach
- By Car
- By Train
- By Bus
- By Air
- Parking
- Tips
- Perranporth Beach
- By Car
- By Train
- By Bus
- Parking
- By Air
- Cycling or Walking
- Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Marazion Beach
- By Car
- By Train
- By Bus
- By Plane
- By Bike
- Local Tips
- Porthmeor Beach
- By Car
- By Train
- By Bus
- By Foot
- Tips for Visiting Porthmeor Beach
- Kynance Cove
- Best Times to Visit Beaches in Cornwall
- Conclusion
Introduction
Sheltered bays on the south coast, like Porthcurno and Praa Sands, provide excellent swimming conditions and protection from the chilly northern winds.
Secluded spots like Harlyn and Kynance offer a true escape from the hustle and bustle. At the same time, lively town beaches such as Marazion and Porthmeor are ideal for a day out, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and galleries nearby.
Visit Cornwall highlights the beauty of these beaches with stunning photos and best things to do while there.
Reasons Why Beaches in Cornwall Matter
Being near some of the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall has a lot of benefits for your mind and soul. Studies have shown that going to the beach on holiday impacts your emotional well-being more than other types of holidays. But why does it matter?
Beaches in Cornwall are teeming with wildlife. Ranging from spotting seals at Godrevy to birdwatching on the Lizard Peninsula, you will find plenty to marvel at. The region’s diverse ecosystems are home to various marine life and coastal birds, offering unique opportunities for nature study and photography.
The beaches of Cornwall play a role in the local economy. They attract millions of visitors each year, supporting local businesses such as cafes, restaurants, hotels, and shops. The tourism industry provides jobs and improves the economy, making Cornwall a thriving community.
Cornwall’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident through various conservation efforts. Beach clean-ups, sustainable tourism practices, and marine conservation projects allow the beaches to remain fresh for future generations. This focus on sustainability helps protect the environment while promoting responsible tourism.
Top 10 Beaches in Cornwall to Visit this Summer
Cornwall boasts some of the UK’s most stunning beaches, each offering unique charm and breath-taking beauty. Kynance Cove, with its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, is a must-see.
Porthcurno Beach, famous for its soft white sand and clear blue sea, is perfect for a picturesque day out. Fistral Beach in Newquay is a haven for surfers, while St Ives’ Porthmeor Beach is great for families and art lovers.
Here, we’ve highlighted our top ten beaches in Cornwall. Be sure to check them out:
Porthcurno Beach
Nestled among tall granite cliffs, Porthcurno Beach is a breathtaking sight. At low tide, a golden sandy arc stretches from the Minack Theatre to Logan Rock, an Iron Age cliff castle site. Close to Land’s End, Porthcurno has long been a telecommunications hub, with cables from America occasionally visible in the sand. The beach picks up more swell than other south coast beaches, offering good surf on a big low tide, although waves are fast and hollow, unsuitable for beginners. Porthcurno is family-friendly but has a steep shelf at high tide, making swimming dangerous. It faces south, sheltered by cliffs from northerly winds.
Here is a guide on how to get to Porthcurno Beach, one of the best beaches in Cornwall.
By Car
- From Penzance: The easiest way is to drive. Porthcurno is about 10 miles from Penzance. Take the A30 west out of Penzance, then the B3283 towards St. Buryan. Follow signs for Porthcurno from there.
- Parking: There is a car park near the beach, which gets quite busy during peak season. It’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
By Public Transport
- Bus: You can take a bus from Penzance. The First Kernow bus service A1/A3 runs from Penzance to Land’s End, stopping at Porthcurno. Check the latest schedules as they can vary seasonally.
- Train: The nearest train station is in Penzance. From there, you can take the bus or a taxi.
By Bike
- Cycle Route: For the adventurous, cycling is an option. Cornwall has some beautiful, albeit hilly, routes. Follow the National Cycle Route 3 from Penzance towards Land’s End, then head towards Porthcurno.
On Foot
- Coastal Path: If you enjoy hiking, take the South West Coast Path. The stretch from Land’s End to Porthcurno offers breathtaking views but be prepared for a challenging walk.
Tips for Visiting
- Facilities: There are basic facilities near the beach, including toilets and a café.
- Minack Theatre: Don’t miss the nearby Minack Theatre, an open-air theatre carved into the cliffside. It’s a fantastic spot to catch a performance or simply take in the views.
- Safety: The beach is lifeguarded during the summer months, but always be cautious with tides and currents.
Harlyn Bay
This is a wide, sandy beach favoured by families and surfers near Padstow. The coast path crosses the beach towards the famous Bedruthan Steps, though high tide can cover the sand. Lifeguards certify safe swimming in summer, and winter storm swells bring good waves, protected from southwesterly gales.
Here are a few ways to get there:
By Car
Driving is one of the most convenient ways to get to Harlyn Bay, one of the beaches in Cornwall. Here are the directions:
- From London
- Take the M4 motorway towards Bristol.
- At junction 20, take the M5 southbound towards Exeter.
- At junction 31, merge onto the A30 towards Bodmin/Okehampton.
- Exit the A30 at Victoria Interchange and take the A39 towards Wadebridge.
- From Wadebridge, follow signs to Padstow (A389).
- Before reaching Padstow, follow the signs to Harlyn Bay.
- From Other Parts of Cornwall
- If you’re coming from the west (e.g., Truro), take the A30 towards Bodmin.
- Exit at Victoria Interchange and follow the directions as above.
- From the south (e.g., Falmouth), you can take the A39 northbound towards Wadebridge and then follow the signs to Padstow.
By Train
The nearest train station to Harlyn Bay is Bodmin Parkway. From there:
- Taxi or Car Hire
- A taxi from Bodmin Parkway to Harlyn Bay will take approximately 30-40 minutes.
- Car hire is available at the station for more flexibility.
- Bus
- You can take a bus from Bodmin Parkway to Wadebridge, then transfer to a bus heading to Padstow. From Padstow, local buses or taxis can take you to Harlyn Bay.
By Bus
Several bus services operate in the area:
- From Newquay
- Take the bus to Padstow and then catch a local bus to Harlyn Bay.
- From Wadebridge:
- Direct buses to Padstow are available, with connections to Harlyn Bay.
By Plane
The nearest airport is Newquay Cornwall Airport (NQY):
- Taxi or Car Hire
- A taxi from the airport to Harlyn Bay takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Car hire is available at the airport.
- Bus
- Take a bus from the airport to Padstow, then a local bus or taxi to Harlyn Bay.
Cycling and Walking
For the more adventurous, cycling or walking to Harlyn Bay from nearby locations can be an option. The Camel Trail, a popular cycling route, passes in Wadebridge and Padstow, making it a scenic option for part of the journey.
Tips
- Parking: There is a car park at Harlyn Bay, but it can get busy during peak times.
- Check Timetables: If you’re using public transport, make sure to check the latest bus and train timetables for any changes.
Mawgan Porth Beach
Located just four miles north of Newquay, Mawgan Porth is a small village with a vast sandy beach, offering a peaceful alternative to Newquay’s crowds. Nestled in a large, sheltered bay at the base of cliffs, the beach features numerous rock pools and caves to explore. It receives ample Atlantic swell, making it popular with families and surfers. The village provides a good selection of dining and accommodation options. I t ranks among the most attractive beaches in Cornwall.
To get to Mawgan Porth Beach, follow these directions:
By Car
- From the North
- Take the A39 southbound towards Wadebridge.
- At Wadebridge, take the A39 towards Newquay.
- Follow the A39 until you reach the junction with the A3059.
- Turn right onto the A3059, following signs for Newquay Airport.
- Turn right onto the B3276, following signs for Mawgan Porth.
- Continue on the B3276 until you reach Mawgan Porth.
- From the South
- Take the A30 northbound towards Bodmin.
- Exit at the junction with the A39, heading towards Newquay.
- Follow the A39 until you reach the junction with the A3059.
- Turn left onto the A3059, following signs for Newquay Airport.
- Turn right onto the B3276, following signs for Mawgan Porth.
- Continue on the B3276 until you reach Mawgan Porth.
- From Newquay
- Take the A3059 towards the airport.
- Turn right onto the B3276, following signs for Mawgan Porth.
- Continue on the B3276 until you reach Mawgan Porth.
By Public Transport
- From Newquay
- Take the number 56 bus from Newquay Bus Station towards Padstow.
- The bus stops at Mawgan Porth. The beach is a short walk from the bus stop.
- From Padstow
- Take the number 56 bus towards Newquay.
- The bus stops at Mawgan Porth. The beach is a short walk from the bus stop.
By Foot or Bicycle
- From the South West Coast Path
- If you’re walking or cycling along the South West Coast Path, follow the signs towards Mawgan Porth. The beach is well signposted along the path and offers stunning coastal views as you approach.
Parking:
- There are several car parks in Mawgan Porth, including one directly by the beach. During peak times, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
Sennen Beach
Sennen is listed among the best beaches in Cornwall. It is a picturesque fishing bay boasting a long, sandy beach perfect for swimming and surfing. This beach extends to connect with its neighbourhood while offering over a mile of golden sand. Even on busy summer days, there is ample space to relax. Surf lessons and board rentals are available, and lifeguards patrol the beach during summer. Conveniently located near the car park are cafes, the Old Success pub, and a number of surf shops.
Here’s how to get there:
By Car
- From Penzance: Sennen Beach is about 10 miles from Penzance. Take the A30 west towards Land’s End. Follow the signs for Sennen Cove as you approach the area. There is a car park near the beach.
- From Truro: It’s about 30 miles from Truro. Drive west on the A30 towards Penzance, then continue as above.
By Public Transport
- By Train: The nearest train station is in Penzance. From there, you can catch a bus or taxi to Sennen Cove.
- By Bus: From Penzance, you can take the First Kernow bus route A3 or the Land’s End Coaster, which will take you to Sennen.
By Bike or Foot
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can cycle or walk along the South West Coast Path, which offers stunning coastal views. The path from Penzance to Sennen Cove is well-marked and quite scenic.
Tips
- Parking: During the peak season, the car parks can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early.
- Facilities: There are toilets, a café, and surf schools at Sennen Cove, making it a great spot for a day out.
- Safety: If you’re planning to swim or surf, be aware of the tides and follow any safety advice from the lifeguards.
Godrevy Beach
Godrevy faces the full force of the Atlantic, making it one of the more exposed beaches in Cornwall. It handles large swells and oozes beauty, especially on a stormy winter day. The beach ends at a rocky headland with spectacular views of Godrevy lighthouse, the real-life inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s “To The Lighthouse.” There are different ways to get there:
By Car
- From the A30: The most straightforward route is using the A30. If you’re coming from the east, take the A30 towards Hayle. If you are from Hayle, follow the signs towards Gwithian and Godrevy.
- Parking: There’s a National Trust car park at Godrevy, which is pay and display. National Trust members can park for free. The car park can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is advisable.
By Public Transport
- Train: The nearest train station is in Hayle. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Godrevy Beach.
- Bus: From Hayle, you can catch the bus service 515 towards Gwithian and Godrevy. The bus stops are a short walk from the beach.
By Bike
Cycling is a fantastic way to explore Cornwall, and Godrevy is accessible using several scenic cycle routes. Coming from Hayle, take the B3301, which offers beautiful coastal views along the way.
Walking
For those who enjoy hiking, the South West Coast Path provides a stunning route to Godrevy Beach. It is possible to start from either Hayle or St Ives, enjoying the breathtaking Cornish coastline as you go. The walk from Hayle is approximately 6 miles and offers a mix of beach and clifftop paths.
Tips for Visiting Godrevy Beach
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
- Facilities: There are basic facilities available, including toilets and a seasonal café near the car park.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for seals, especially around the rocks near the lighthouse. Birdwatchers can also enjoy spotting various seabirds.
- Activities: The beach is popular for surfing, rock pooling, and simply relaxing with a picnic.
Praa Sands Beach
Located on the more sheltered south coast between Marazion and Porthleven, Praa Sands is a mid-sized sandy beach popular with surfers of all skill levels. It performs best with a southerly swell and a northerly wind. In summer, the usually calm sea makes Praa Sands perfect for swimmers and children. The beach is well-equipped with shops, cafes, toilets, and several campsites within easy walking distance, making one of the best beaches in town that you should think of visiting.
Here’s how to get there:
By Car
- From London
- Take the M4 motorway westbound.
- Merge onto the M5 at Bristol and continue southbound.
- At Exeter, switch to the A30 and follow it all the way into Cornwall.
- Exit the A30 at the Helston exit and follow signs for the A394 towards Penzance.
- Look out for signs to Praa Sands on your left after passing through the village of Germoe.
- From Penzance
- Take the A394 road towards Helston.
- After passing through the village of Rosudgeon, follow signs for Praa Sands.
By Train
- Nearest Train Station: Penzance
- Penzance is well connected to major cities, including direct services from London Paddington.
- From Penzance, take a taxi or a bus (see below) to Praa Sands.
By Bus
- From Penzance
- Take the First Kernow bus service U4 which runs between Penzance and Falmouth.
- Get off at the Praa Sands stop, which is a short walk from the beach.
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Newquay Cornwall Airport
- From Newquay Airport, hire a car and follow directions to Praa Sands (approximately an hour’s drive).
- Alternatively, take a bus or taxi to Newquay, then a train to Penzance, followed by a bus or taxi to Praa Sands.
Parking
- Praa Sands Car Park: There’s a large car park just behind the beach, making it convenient if you’re travelling by car. It can get busy during peak seasons, so arriving early is a good idea.
Tips
- Surfing: Praa Sands is popular with surfers. There’s a surf school if you’re interested in lessons or renting equipment.
- Facilities: The beach has amenities like cafes, toilets, and a beach shop.
- Best Time to Visit: The beach is lovely year-round, but it can get crowded in the summer. Early mornings and evenings tend to be quieter.
Perranporth Beach
Perranporth has the charm of a classic seaside holiday village, bustling with shops, cafes, and pubs. The beach extends two miles at low tide, featuring good surf and a natural open-air swimming pool that fills with seawater at high tide. This pool warms up during the day, making it ideal for you. The southern end of the beach can get crowded in summer, but a short walk towards Penhale Sands offers more space. Lifeguards patrol the beach in summer, usually marking two safe swimming zones.
Here’s how to get there:
By Car
- From the North (e.g., Exeter, Bristol)
- Take the M5 southbound.
- At Junction 31, exit onto the A30 towards Bodmin/Okehampton.
- Follow the A30 for about 85 miles, then take the exit for B3285 towards Perranporth.
- Continue on the B3285, following signs for Perranporth.
- From the South (e.g., Truro)
- Head north on the A39.
- Take the B3284 towards Perranporth, and follow signs to the beach.
By Train
- The nearest major train station is Truro. Coming from Truro, catch a local bus or taxi to Perranporth.
- Train options
- From London Paddington, take the direct train to Truro, which typically takes around 4.5 hours.
- From other parts of the UK, you might need to change trains at Exeter St Davids.
By Bus
- From Truro: Take the 87 or 87A bus directly to Perranporth. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
- From Newquay: Take the 57 bus to Perranporth, which takes about 50 minutes.
Parking
Perranporth offers several car parks, with the main ones being:
- Wheal Leisure Car Park: Centrally located, just a short walk from the beach.
- Tywarnhayle Square Car Park: Close to the town centre.
- Beach Car Park: Right next to the beach, offering convenient access but can fill up quickly in peak season.
By Air
- The nearest airport is Newquay Cornwall Airport, about 15 miles from Perranporth.
- From the airport, you can hire a car, take a taxi, or use local buses to reach Perranporth.
Cycling or Walking
- For the more adventurous, the South West Coast Path offers a scenic route to Perranporth.
- Cycling from nearby towns is also a popular option, with dedicated cycle paths available.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Plan Ahead: Especially during peak summer months, plan your journey in advance to avoid traffic and ensure parking availability.
- Check Weather Conditions: Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and be prepared.
- Local Amenities: Perranporth has shops, cafes, and restaurants, so you can easily stock up on essentials or enjoy a meal with a view.
Marazion Beach
It sits at the end of a long stretch of pebbly sand reaching back to Penzance. Backed by dunes, this south-facing beach offers views of the iconic St Michael’s Mount, accessible via a causeway at low tide. Marazion’s beach mood varies from calm and family-friendly to windsurfing heaven when southerly gales blow. The sand transitions to rocky coves at the town end, where numerous facilities are available.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to get there:
By Car
Driving is one of the most convenient ways to get to Marazion Beach. Here’s how:
- From the A30: Head towards Penzance. Marazion is situated just 3 miles east of Penzance on the A394.
- Parking: There are several car parks in Marazion. The main ones include Folly Field Car Park, Marazion Car Park, and St Michael’s Mount Long Stay Car Park.
By Train
If you prefer to take the train, here’s the way to go:
- Train to Penzance: The nearest major train station is Penzance, which is well-connected to the rest of the UK, including direct services from London Paddington.
- Bus or Taxi from Penzance: From Penzance, can take a bus (the A1 or A2 routes) or a short taxi ride to Marazion, which is about 10 minutes away.
By Bus
Cornwall has a good bus network. It is possible reach Marazion Beach by bus from various parts of Cornwall:
- From Penzance: As mentioned, the A1 and A2 bus routes serve Marazion.
- From St Ives and other towns: Bus services like the 515 also connect Marazion to nearby towns.
By Plane
For those travelling from further afield, you have the option to fly into Cornwall:
- Fly to Newquay Airport: The closest airport is Newquay Cornwall Airport.
- From Newquay: From the airport, hire a car, take a taxi, or use public transport to reach Marazion. It’s about an hour’s drive from Newquay to Marazion.
By Bike
For the more adventurous, cycling is an option:
- National Cycle Network: Marazion is accessible via the National Cycle Network. Route 3 passes in the area and offers scenic views along the way.
Local Tips
- Check the Tide: If you plan to visit St Michael’s Mount from Marazion Beach, make sure to check the tide times. Walk across the causeway during low tide or take a boat during high tide.
- Facilities: Marazion Beach has excellent facilities, including cafes, toilets, and shops. It’s a family-friendly beach with plenty of activities.
Porthmeor Beach
The westernmost beach in St Ives, Porthmeor is one of the few in Penwith shielded from prevailing southwesterly winds. This curving, sandy bay attracts surfers with its variety of peaks suitable for all abilities. Overlooked by the Tate gallery, Porthmeor boasts a unique character. Cafes, beach huts, and a small car parks provide convenience for you, and it’s just a short walk from St Ives’ centre.
Here’s how to get there:
By Car
- From the A30
- Take the A30 westbound if you’re coming from the rest of the UK.
- Follow signs for St Ives (B3074).
- As you approach St Ives, you’ll find several car parks. The Trenwith Car Park is large and usually has spaces available. From there, it’s a short walk into the town and to the beach.
- Parking
- St Ives can get quite busy, especially in summer. Besides Trenwith Car Park, other options include Park Avenue Car Park, Barnoon Long Stay Car Park, and The Island Car Park. Be prepared for a bit of a walk during peak times.
By Train
- From London or other major cities
- Take a train to St Erth from London Paddington, which usually involves a change at Plymouth or Penzance.
- From St Erth, transfer to the St Ives Bay Line, a scenic 15-minute journey that takes you directly to St Ives.
- From the St Ives Station
- It’s about a 10-15 minute walk through the town to Porthmeor Beach. Enjoy the picturesque views as you stroll.
By Bus
- Several bus services operate to St Ives from surrounding areas, including the Tinner T1 from Penzance and the Atlantic Coaster A3 from Truro. These buses will drop you off in the town centre, from where it’s a short walk to the beach.
By Foot
- If you’re staying within St Ives, Porthmeor Beach is easily accessible on foot. The town is compact and walkable, with plenty of signs guiding you to the beach.
Tips for Visiting Porthmeor Beach
- Timing: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Facilities: The beach has good facilities, including a café, toilets, and surf school.
- Safety: Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, making it a safe spot for swimming and surfing.
Kynance Cove
Located two miles from Lizard Point, Kynance Cove is one of Cornwall’s most photographed beaches. Its white sands, brilliant turquoise waters, islands, caves, and stunning serpentine rock formations make it a graphical spot. Accessible via a National Trust toll road and car park, Kynance Cove remains a bit remote, enabling a tranquil experience despite its popularity. Its surf conditions can be inconsistent but occasionally good.
To get to Kynance Cove, you generally have a few options depending on your starting point:
- By Car: If you’re driving, input “Kynance Cove” into your GPS or maps app. From major towns like Helston or Falmouth, there are usually clear signposts towards the Lizard Peninsula, where Kynance Cove is located. The postcode TR12 7PJ can also be used for navigation.
- Public Transport: While not directly accessible by train, you have an option to take a train to nearby towns like Helston or Penzance and then catch a bus or taxi to Kynance Cove. Bus services in Cornwall are generally reliable and connect many towns with popular destinations like Kynance Cove during peak seasons.
- Walking: If you’re staying nearby or enjoy coastal walks, there are beautiful trails from nearby villages and the Lizard Peninsula that lead to Kynance Cove. These paths offer stunning views and are popular with walkers and hikers.
- Tourist Services: During peak tourist seasons, there might be guided tours or shuttle services from nearby towns or attractions directly to Kynance Cove. Checking with local tourist information centers or websites can provide up-to-date information on these services.
Best Times to Visit Beaches in Cornwall
The best time to visit beaches Cornwall can depend on what you’re looking to experience, it could be avoiding crowds to enjoying the warmest weather. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your perfect beach holiday in Cornwall.
Spring (March to May)
Spring witnesses the arrival of vibrant wildflowers dotting the cliffs and dunes, adding a splash of color to the breathtaking coastal scenery. Whether strolling along the sandy shores, indulging in water sports amidst gentler waves, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air, Spring in Cornwall promises a rejuvenating seaside experience that captures the essence of the region’s natural allure. It is a good season to explore the beaches in Cornwall.
Pros
- Mild Weather: Spring in Cornwall is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C. This is perfect for beach walks and enjoying the fresh sea air without the intense summer heat.
- Fewer Crowds: As this is outside of the school holiday period, beaches are much quieter, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Cons
- Unpredictable Weather: While generally mild, spring can still be unpredictable, with occasional showers and chilly winds.
Summer (June to August)
Summer, spanning from June to August, emerges as the prime season to experience beaches in Cornwall. With its mild maritime climate reaching its zenith during these months, Cornwall unveils a panorama of stunning coastal vistas and crystalline waters.
Pros
- Warmest Weather: Summer offers the best beach weather, with temperatures often reaching up to 20°C to 25°C. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
- Festivals and Events: Cornwall comes alive in summer with various festivals, including the famous Boardmasters Festival, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
- Extended Daylight: Longer days mean more time to enjoy the beaches and explore the coastline.
Cons
- Crowds: Summer is the peak tourist season. Popular beaches can get very crowded, especially during school holidays.
- Higher Prices: Accommodation and travel costs can be higher during the summer months.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn, stretching from September to November, offers a serene and captivating time to visit various beaches in Cornwall. As summer crowds dissipate, the coastline becomes a tranquil haven where visitors can relish in the beauty of uncrowded shores and stunning landscapes.
Pros:
- Pleasant Weather: Early autumn can still be warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, making it ideal for beach activities and coastal walks.
- Stunning Scenery: The changing colours of autumn add a unique charm to nature, providing beautiful backdrops for photos.
Cons
- Shorter Days: As autumn progresses, days become shorter, giving you less daylight to enjoy the beaches.
- Cooler Temperatures: Towards the end of autumn, temperatures start to drop, making it less ideal for swimming.
Winter (December to February)
Winter (December to February) presents an unexpected charm for visiting beaches in Cornwall. The usually bustling coastal areas quiet down, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the summer crowds.
Pros
- Peace and Tranquility: Winter is the least crowded season, offering serene beaches and a chance to experience Cornwall’s raw, rugged beauty.
- Storm Watching: For those who appreciate dramatic seascapes, winter storms provide a spectacular show of nature’s power.
- Lower Costs: Accommodation and travel are generally cheaper during winter.
Cons
- Cold Weather: Temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C, making it too cold for most beach activities.
- Limited Facilities: Many beachside cafes and attractions may be closed or have reduced hours during the off-season.
Insider Tips
- Early Morning Visits: Regardless of the season, early morning visits can help you avoid crowds and enjoy the beach in a more tranquil setting.
- Tide Times: Check tide times before you go. Some beaches are more accessible and enjoyable at low tide, while others may offer unique rock pools and caves to explore at high tide.
- Local Events: Keep an eye on local events and festivals, which can greatly impact your beach experience.
Conclusion
Cornwall’s coastline is a treasure for beaches, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. From the golden sands of Porthcurno to the dramatic cliffs of Bedruthan Steps, these beaches are picturesque destinations and gateways to unforgettable experiences. They have varied benefits such as:
- Offer fresh produce
- Give chance to spend time in the sun
- Allow community and social connections
Whether you’re looking to surf the waves, explore hidden coves, or simply relax with a pasty in hand, Cornwall has a beach for every mood and moment.
We hope this article has helped you discover the 10 Must-Visit Beaches in Cornwall this summer.
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