Category: Coastal wonder

Natural signs

In the quiet hours on the beach, reading the signs of the sea, the fauna and the sky can make nature your ally.

It’s early morning, you’re up, and first to the beach. When you get there, you realise, you’ve forgotten to check the tides. Is the sea coming in or going out? How can you tell? One answer is to watch the birds.

Look at the sand around the tideline. If there are gulls, dippers and oystercatchers pecking around, odds are you’re looking at a falling tide. Lugworms, molluscs and other burrowing critters come up to feed as the tide recedes, and the seabirds are taking advantage of an easy feast.

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Reading the land (and sea)

If you know what to look out for, Cornwall’s coast is full of fascinating little clues like this. With a little knowledge, it’s possible to decipher everything from sea conditions to the weather forecast.

“Everyone comes to Cornwall to enjoy the view, but often they don’t look at the story behind the scenery,” says Hetty Wildblood, a kayaking guide who runs expeditions along the Helford River and around St Agnes. “It’s a skill you have to practise. But there’s so much information if you know where to look: geology, industry, biology, natural history.

“One example I often use is the cliff colours around St Agnes; all those vivid oranges, browns and reds. They’re caused by mineral deposits, especially from heavy metals like iron and tin – a visible reminder of the mining riches that once sustained Cornwall.”

Check out more of our locations and explore our St Agnes holiday cottages.
Wheal Coates St Agnes

Dunes (or towans, as they’re known here) are a common feature of many Cornish beaches. They’re an important coastal habitat – but they’re also weather vanes.

“So if you want to be sure of keeping your feet dry, pitch your blanket higher than the second, rather than the first, strandline.”

Dunes form perpendicular to the prevailing onshore wind, and their presence indicates a strong, persistent breeze: the greater the dunes, the greater and gustier the winds. The dunes can also tell you about the direction of the prevailing wind; the slope on the windward side will be shallower and easier to walk on, while the sand on the ‘slip’ side will be steep, softer and more unstable.

Prince of tides

You’re out on a brisk morning walk and it’s time to sit down to brew a morning coffee. How do you know where to pitch your picnic blanket?

Strandlines – the line of seaweed and ocean debris left behind by tides – are your friend here. There are usually at least two strandlines on most beaches. The one nearest to the sea marks the high point reached by the most recent tide. The second one, higher up the beach, marks the point reached during the last spring tide (sometimes, there’s also a third line, even further up the beach: this indicates the extent of the last storm surge).

So if you want to be sure of keeping your feet dry, pitch your blanket higher than the second, rather than the first, strandline; that way, even if you’re visiting on a spring tide, the water won’t reach you (unless you’ve decided to picnic in the teeth of an Atlantic storm, that is).

Another useful way of determining tidal range is to look at the rocks near the sea. Lichen grows in bands of colour; black at the bottom, orange or red in the middle, grey-green at the top. Only the black lichen is happy to grow underwater, so it’s also a natural signpost that indicates the high water mark.

Moon movements

How about the phenomenon of spring and neap tides? Contrary to what many people believe, spring tides actually have nothing to do with the season of spring: they refer to the extra ‘spring’ in the sea’s tidal range, which can be more than 20% above and below the average.

“If you’re close to a new moon or a full moon, you know the tide will be both lower and higher than usual.”

Spring tides occur twice a month (throughout summer, autumn and winter too!). They are caused by the extra gravitational pull that occurs when the sun and moon both line up with the earth – a phenomenon called syzygy. This happens at new moon (when the moon moves between the sun and the earth) and full moon (when the moon is on the opposite side of the earth). Neap tides occur (approximately) seven days either side.

hayle

So if you want to know what the tide is up to, have a look at the sky at night. If you’re close to a new moon or a full moon, you know the tide will be both lower and higher than usual. Since much more of the coastline is revealed during spring tides, you’ll also know that it’s the best time for a spot of rock-pooling or a long beach walk the next day.

Whither the weather

“I think it’s so important for people to learn these skills,” says Matt Slater, a marine biologist for the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. “Understanding the weather and the tides isn’t just useful, it makes your time on the beach safer, and more fun.

“One example I always give is that if you want to go snorkelling, go at low tide when the wind is blowing offshore. That way, you’ll be able to get down there and have a good look at the sea-bed. Likewise, if you want to go paddleboarding or kayaking safely, pick a beach where the wind is blowing onshore (towards the land); otherwise there’s a chance you’ll get blown out to sea. It seems obvious, but you’d be amazed by how few people understand it.”

“Mackerel sky, mackerel sky; never long wet, never long dry.”

Another useful clue about sea conditions is given by the glitter path – the line of light cast by the sun on the water. If the sea’s really calm, the glitter path will be narrow (no broader than the sun is wide). But when the sea’s rough, the high, choppy waves reflect more light, causing the glitter path to spread out and become more triangular.

If you’re deciding how to spend your beach hours for the day, the calmest conditions for swimming and paddleboarding will be the days when the dawn sun is lighting a narrow glitter path.

gwenver

Signals in the sky

Seabirds also foretell what the weather has in store. If they’re flying inland in numbers, chances are there’s bad weather brewing out to sea; if they’re heading in the opposite direction, it’s a sign of more settled conditions.

But for the clearest weather forecast, turn your eyes to the sky. “Red sky in the morning, sailor’s warning; red sky at night, sailor’s delight” chimes the old adage – and surprisingly, more often than not, it’s true.

Red skies at dawn are caused by light bouncing off high cirrus clouds, often an indication of an approaching weather front. Red skies at sunset usually indicate clear skies in the west; and since the UK’s weather systems generally move in from the Atlantic, a scarlet sunset is a good bet for fine weather tomorrow.

Lastly, there’s that most Cornish of cloud systems – a mackerel sky, in which bands of clouds run across the sky like the markings on a mackerel’s back. Here, another old saying comes in handy: “Mackerel sky, mackerel sky; never long wet, never long dry.” The pattern is usually caused by cirrocumulus clouds, which appear at the edge of weather fronts – meaning change is on the way.

So if it’s sunny now, the sudden appearance of a mackerel sky might mean it’s a good time to pack up and head for shelter. But if it’s raining where you are now, and a mackerel sky materialises, then you might be in luck – that dinner on the beach you’ve been hoping for may still be on the cards.

Discover more of Cornwall with our favourite places to watch the ocean and go sea spotting.

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korukayaking.co.uk

cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk

Out of hours: At the beach with Nick Pumphrey

A 5am alarm – sometimes earlier. Pulling on the wetsuit, eyes half closed, as the first faint traces of monochrome light emerge. Rain, hail, raging gales or glassy calm, photographer Nick Pumphrey steps into the sea with his camera every morning while most of us are sleeping. Why? To get creative in the ‘blue hour’, connect with nature, calm his mind and capture the breaking dawn while floating in the waters around his home town of St Ives.

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Nick Pumphrey Credit: Nick Pumphrey

Before the pandemic, Nick travelled the world shooting for publications and brands including National Geographic, The Guardian, Roxy, Surfdome and Wavelength magazine. But immersing himself in the ocean on his doorstep every morning has sparked a new energy and insight he’s eager to share.

As part of our Out of Hours content series, we caught him one morning once he’d dried off, made a coffee and posted his 10 daily ‘Dawn Days’ images to his Instagram account.

Credit: Nick Pumphrey

Dawn Days came about in the early stages of lockdown last year. I wasn’t feeling too good – not myself. I wanted to get rid of the anxieties that were clouding my thoughts. I read a few books on mindfulness and studied the Wim Hof cold water submersion breathing – and I had this idea that sharing pictures of the sea might lift people’s spirits.

There was no real brief, no expectations. I thought, I’ll get in the sea in the dark, see the sunrise, float, photograph whatever’s happening. Then share it. I wanted to keep the whole motive as simple and honest as possible.

I swim with my camera for my own sanity, I swim to share stories with fellow swimmers, I swim to be present and to connect with something much larger than myself. I share images on social media with the hope of inspiring others to be creative and to connect with nature.

Credit: Nick Pumphrey

With the dawn wake-up calls, there’s always a bit of stubbornness, a resistance, there. But ultimately, I know I’ll feel better when I’m up – that it’ll be worth it. Once I’m on my feet and the wetsuit’s on, I’m not tired anymore. I haven’t missed a morning yet this year.

“I swim with my camera for my own sanity, I swim to share stories with fellow swimmers, I swim to be present and to connect with something much larger than myself.”

In the summer, it can be a 4am alarm to be in there for the blue hour. It drives you crazy chasing that first light. You get up and look out, and it’s like, ‘Oh no, it’s getting light already!’

The ‘blue hour’ is the hour before dawn, when you often get the best colours in the sky. I float there, literally just hooting out loud at these incredible colour displays above. You know it’s a good day when you’re hooting while shooting.

Nick Pumphrey Credit: Nick Pumphrey

Various people have joined my dawn swims along the way, and it’s seriously improved their wellbeing. James Hardy – a great surfer, he’s been doing it with me every single day since January. When he started, he couldn’t sleep. He’d had really bad sleeping problems for years, but after 14 days in the sea at sunrise, they disappeared. Then there’s Lydia from Wild Swimming Cornwall. She was battling mental health issues, and then immersion in nature has completely sorted her.

We’ve been out in some pretty wild weather – sleet, snow, wind, big swells. No two days are the same. You’re connecting directly with nature – starting your day positively. Not to mention all the benefits of cold water.

Out of hours Credit: Nick Pumphrey

There was one Dawn Day experience that turned pretty heavy. I was at Godrevy, and there was a heavy sea fog. I couldn’t see the sea, but I could hear it. My ego was saying: ‘I have to do it, people are going to be expecting my 10 photos,’ when of course they’re not really. My gut was telling me no, but I kept going. Even in the water, the current was pushing me back towards shore. Eventually I got out there, but then I got caught in a current, and ended up 100 metres up by the cliffs. I looked in and thought, ‘the beach isn’t there anymore, it’s just a rock face.’ I was alright, the tide was OK and there was enough space for me to climb up and call it a day. But you know, I’m experienced, and I still got caught out. It taught me how important it is to listen to your instincts and respect the sea.

Nick pumphrey Credit: Nick Pumphrey

“The ‘blue hour’ is the hour before dawn, when you often get the best colours in the sky. I float there, literally just hooting out loud at these incredible colour displays above.”

Porthmeor Beach was my playground. We came to St Ives when I was 6 months old, so I’ve spent my life around the sea surrounded by creative folk. I started surfing at 12, and I’m 42 now. I suppose I’m naturally drawn to the water, because I always have this burning desire to be in the sea, or at least close by.

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I’ve wanted to be a photographer for as long as I can remember, but I didn’t have the confidence to go for it at first. So I kept doing the ‘safe’ jobs to bring money in. It was only when I was 35, 36 – that I decided to properly give photography a go, 100%, without any compromise. Over the last 6 years or so, I’ve lived purely off my photography. I really believe if you go with those gut feelings and trust that it will work out, then it probably will.

Credit: Nick Pumphrey

My sea photographs are a combination of intention and experimentation. On dark mornings, I normally start with slow exposure as that lends itself beautifully to the movement – the ‘whoosh’ – of the sea. There are days that don’t look particularly inspiring, but if you take a photo at half a second, or a second even, you get some unexpectedly beautiful results. I move the camera with the wave, take the picture – and give the camera a little jolt, and it just pulls everything up. I love the anticipation, the not knowing exactly how it’s going to turn out. There are no rules.

I enjoy going through my shots once I’m out and dry with a cup of coffee. The coffee, the edit and the music – I love it.

You get some mornings when the sun’s going crazy, the waves are pumping, the light is intense, and you’re just reacting to what’s happening in front of you. They’re the best days – when you’re totally present.

When I do the dawn swims there’s the connection to nature; to the energy of the sea and the power of the sunrise. You’re getting a big dose of natural light into your eyes first thing. These days, it’s usually the opposite, with people waking up and looking straight into a phone screen. I know I used to do that, but not now.

Credit: Nick Pumphrey

“I love the anticipation, the not knowing exactly how the image will turn out. There are no rules.”

There’s been an awakening during this last year. People have realised that being out in nature makes them feel better. Growing your own food, leaving the city – there’s been a huge shift, a move back to our roots. It’s positive, because when you appreciate and understand nature, you want to protect it.

Credit: Nick Pumphrey

We’ve had some incredible encounters with wildlife. Every morning two little seal pups would come up and hang with us. They’re so inquisitive and innocent. I got a photo of one rubbing its head on James’ swim fin! We also witnessed a few gannet feeding frenzies, and schools of dolphins swimming by too.

This morning there was a white sunrise. It had an exotic, hazy feeling. When the sun finally showed itself it was this bright white ball – a bit like the moon. I took a few shots and then just put my camera down and looked at it. It was so peaceful. Really calm, no wind. It was just the oily textures of the sea and this white sun, with its reflection coming straight to me.

I’m not religious, but there’s a spiritual dimension to being in the sea at dawn. It’s like coming back to source, tapping back into how we were, how we’re supposed to be. It’s easy to see life as school, study, get a job, make money, buy a house – but ultimately, we feel at our best when we’re in these natural environments. You absorb energy from nature. It makes sense.

Experience the captivating beauty of dawn and dusk along the Cornish coast, as we compare and contrast these magical moments in nature’s theatre.

Find out more:

nickpumphrey.com
@nickpumphreyphoto
Fine art prints available at nickpumphrey.art

Five New Year coastal walks

Start the New Year with a walk along the Cornish coastline.

Find out why New Year is the best time to visit Cornwall and some of our holiday retreats to stay in for the New Year.

New Year is the perfect time to visit Cornwall. The quiet beaches offer miles of walking while the clifftops provide spectacular spots to watch the sunset.

Wander cobbled streets to find harbourside villages decorated with Christmas lights and the warm glow of a crackling log fire from an ancient pub. After all, a brisk walk along the coast should be rewarded with a hot beverage (or alcoholic drink).

With 300 miles of coastline wrapped around the peninsula, Cornwall offers many idyllic paths to walk. From Porthleven to Loe Bar and Port Quin to Port Isaac, there are several locations to choose.

Discover the rugged beauty of Cornwall with our top five coastal walks. Holidaying with a dog? We have some fantastic dog-friendly properties to choose from.

Enjoy exploring Cornwall’s coast with two free extra nights, when you book three or five nights with us. Walk more miles along the south west coastal path, catch a morning wave or soak-up the sea views.

Boscastle Harbour

0.7 miles Boscastle Harbour

The charming village of Boscastle is sheltered in the steep sided Valency Valley. It is one of Cornwall’s most romantic places, with impressive scenery and dramatic clifftops.

The walk starts at Boscastle car park, across the bridge and over the river. Walking alongside the river, you’ll pass ancient white-washed fisherman’s cottages. The coastal path leads you towards the sea, where you can look out onto the natural harbour and beyond to the horizon. From this spot, you will be able to see the meeting point of the two deep valleys.

Make your way back through the village, past the Boscastle Fishing Company, and head towards the Cobweb Inn for a well-deserved drink.

Carbis Bay to St Ives

1.9 miles
carbis bay

Just a 5 minute walk from 4 Godrevy Court and 4 Seas Reach is Carbis Bay. Often described as the Caribbean with its white sand and turquoise water, this large sheltered beach boasts calm bathing waters, flanked either side by green woodland.

Awarded its Blue Flag status year after year due to its clean water conditions, Carbis Bay is the perfect base for families and water sport enthusiasts. Wake up New Years Day and plunge into the ocean with a family dip, before stomping out on the coast path to near by St Ives and its collection of beaches, cafes, shops, restaurants and galleries.

Thinking about staying in St Ives? Have a look at our luxury St Ives holiday properties.

Porthtowan to Chapel Porth

3.4 miles Porthtowan beach

Trek the rocky coastal path, which leads-up onto the cliffs, and discover spectacular views across the Atlantic.

Carpeted with heather and gorse, the path between Porthtowan and Chapel Porth offers walkers perfect spots to watch the sunset.

The walk starts at Porthtowan and follows a steep path to the remains of an engine house at Wheal Charlotte. From here, the route crosses the copper lode and descends to Chapel Porth.

On the route back, why not stop off at Blue Bar on Porthtowan beach for a drink and a bite to eat.

Wheal Coates to St Agnes Head

1 miles Wheal Coates, St Agnes

(Image taken by Matthew Jessop, Visit Cornwall).

Walk within the tin mining landscape, against the backdrop of the Atlantic sea.

Starting at the Wheal Coates car park, walk through the gap within the hedgerow. Stroll down the rocky path towards the tin mine ruins of Wheal Coates.

From here, take the coastal path towards St Agnes Head, which is lined by blue heather. Listen to the rumble of the sea below as you zig-zag along the wild route. You’ll come across old tin mine buildings to explore as you make your way to the Beacon. A lone chimney and a large granite boulder will be on your path. Read information about tin mining and the surrounding heathland on the boards.

When you have reached St Agnes Head, take a moment to look back across the coastal path. You will see engine houses standing proud in the distance.

Watergate Bay to Porth Beach

3.6 miles Watergate Bay coastal path

Enjoy a brisk walk along the coastline from Watergate Bay to Porth beach.

From Watergate Bay car park, ascend the coastal path onto the cliff. Follow the path around and look below onto Watergate Bay beach. The path then continues along the coast, where you can hear the crashing of the waves below.

Walk past Fruitful Cove and Whipsiderry beach.

Whipsiderry is a quiet a beach, boasting rockpools and caves that are worth exploring. Sheltered by enormous cliffs, access to the beach can be negotiated by steep steps with railings down the cliff face.

Continuing along the footpath, you’ll find the remains of an ancient settlement. To explore the ruins, follow the footbridge across to Porth island. At the end of the island there is a blow hole, which is quite spectacular on windy days and best seen at mid-tide.

Join the coast path to Porth beach and head across to the Laid-back coffee shop to relax after your walk.

Embark on a scenic adventure with our guide to the circular walk from Trevone to Padstow, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of Cornwall.

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Watergate Bay to Porth Beach walk

View Watergate Bay in all its glory with its exceptional facilities including the Extreme Academy, which offers a great range of adrenaline sports, great lifestyle shopping, and the legendary Beach Hut. After a bite to eat, strike out along the South West Coast Path and head to neighbouring Porth beach. 

Miles: 1.7
Time: 0:37 minutes
Moderate

Porth Beach

Start off on the coast path above Watergate Beach, a two-mile stretch of golden sand. Warm and cold Atlantic currents converge here, giving rise to a wide range of marine plants and animals. Herring gulls and fulmars nest above the high water mark, and clumps of tufty pink thrift abound on the cliffs.

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The rock pools are home to many molluscs and algae, as well as the astonishing shanny fish, which can survive out of the water for brief spells. Look out for bottle-nosed dolphins and harmless basking sharks out in the bay.

Fancy staying in Watergate Bay? Check out our luxury holiday properties in Watergate Bay, Newquay.

Turn left on the Coast Path and follow it back to Whipsiderry, where some of our favourite north Cornwall views, never disappoint.

The island near the steps on Whipsiderry Beach is Black Humphrey’s Rock, which is riddled with old iron mine workings. A couple of adits emerge near the steps, and some of the boulders on the beach contain iron ore.

There are some impressive caves this side of Trevelgue Head. White marble was once quarried in the pillared Cathedral Cavern, which has a number of tunnels leading away from it, and it is still possible to see a shaft in the roof and drill holes in the walls. Another large cave is Banqueting Hall, also known as Concert Cavern, where candlelight concerts have sometimes been held.

Check out our top 5 restaurants in Watergate Bay.

There is also a spectacular blowhole, just opposite the island, which can be reached by crossing the bridge. Around the time of half-tide the air in one of the caves is so violently compressed that it forces a jet of water through a blowhole in the cave with a thunderous roar that sounds like an old steam train suddenly emerging from a tunnel.

Fuel up on coffee and deck yourself out in the latest coastal style at Roo’s Beach and stroll along the golden sands of Porth beach before heading back to your swanky abode. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, head to the pub on the beach – The Mermaid, where they serve pizzas in the beer garden, local ales and a full lunch and evening menu.

Search self-catering holidays at Porth and Watergate Bay.

Paddleboarding in Cornwall

What better way to explore the craggy coastline of Cornwall than afloat on a paddleboard?

Tone your core and hone your balance as you glide from bay to bay, via smugglers’ caves, hidden coves and secret lagoons, peering down into the blue abyss to see jellyfish, crabs and shoals of fish. You might even snag a mackerel on a hand line or spot a seal on your tail.

Interested in staying in our most luxurious holiday cottages? Check out our luxury coastal cottages.

Far from being solely a sublime summer sport, stand-up paddleboarding can be enjoyed all year round in Cornwall. In fact, autumn is one of our favourite times to launch from the crowd-free beaches, while the ocean is still warm and teeming with wildlife. Even on a crisp mid-winter’s day, in a decent wetsuit you can enjoy a paddle in a sheltered cove. Whether you pack your own inflatable paddleboard, or hire one or set out with an expert guide, paddleboarding is the perfect way to twist your perspective on the stunning Cornish coastline. Look from the outside in, and get your fill of fresh sea air, as you propel yourself across the water, interacting with your natural surroundings.

All of our Beach Retreats are a pebble’s throw from the coast, making it easy to enjoy a stand-up paddleboarding adventure from your doorstep. And in these crazy times, it’s more vital than ever to immerse ourselves in nature, embrace the seasons and stay active, in order to boost our mental health and happiness. As soon as you cast away from the stress of the daily grind on a paddleboard, your mind and body tunes into the sights and sounds of the coast, and the rhythm of your paddle, while developing your strength, endurance, balance, coordination and agility.

Expert SUP coach Dom Moore, of the Surf Sanctuary at Fistral beach, waxes lyrical about the benefits of paddle boarding in Cornwall: “SUP tours are a great way for newcomers and families to experience paddleboarding and discover the beautiful wilderness of our coastline.” Get away from it all and get to grips with the basics on a two-hour tour, or learn everything you need to know about paddle boarding on a two-day Atlantic Expedition. On the latter not only can you explore different routes and take your skills to a new level, you will also learn about the tides, the wind, the moon, how to read maps and apps, and safety and rescue techniques.

With over 400 miles of coastline to explore in Cornwall, there are so many paddleboarding routes and beaches to choose from. Make sure you take a dry bag, a picnic, and a mobile phone, and always check the weather, wind and swell forecast before you go. Never launch a paddleboard in offshore winds.

5 OF OUR FAVOURITE PADDLEBOARDING SPOTS

Gorran Haven

Launch from the historic harbour at Gorran Haven and nudge around the coast to the deserted Vault beach. If you’ve got enough paddle power and the wind and currents are in your favour, push on around Dodman point, where you’ll often encounter seals on the way to Hemmick beach.

Cast away with Haven Kayaks.

Holidays near Gorran Haven.

Gorran Haven

The Helford Passage

Time your trip with the tides and float along the Helford River, exploring hidden creeks and spotting plenty of wildlife on route. Families might like to try a 2.5-hour tour onboard an 8-man Mega SUP.

Cast away with Ocean High.

Cawsand Beach

The calm and sheltered waters lapping Cawsand are the perfect territory to get your balance on a stand-up paddleboard. Nail the basic techniques with a SUP lesson, or join a full- or half-day guided trip to explore sea caves and secret coves.

Cast away with Cawsand Kayak Hire.

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Carbis Bay, St Ives

The sheltered, sub-tropical Carbis Bay is a divine location to cast off on a stand-up paddleboard. Explore the nooks and crannies of the coastline, gaze out to Godrevy lighthouse, and moor up on the St Ives’ beaches for food and refreshments.

Cast away with Ocean Sports Centre.

Search holidays in Carbis Bay.

The Gazzle and The Gannel, Newquay

Discover crabs and blennies hiding in the nooks and crannies of Newquay’s sheltered ‘Gazzle’ area, or float along the serene River Gannel spotting little egrets, greenshanks and other birds that flock to the rich pickings of the salt marshes.

Cast away with The Surf Sanctuary.

Search holidays near The Gannel.

Want to stay in Fistral? Have a look at our luxury holiday cottages in Fistral.

Wildlife to spot while paddleboarding in Cornwall…

Seabirds – lookout for the black and white feathers of Guillemots clinging to the sea cliffs the distinctive orange beaks of oyster catchers, the graceful shags and cormorants perched on the rocks, and gannets diving deep below the surface for fish.

Mackerel – the blue and green tiger strips of mackerel can be seen shimmering beneath the water in huge shoals in spring and summer. Throw out a hand line and catch one to put on the barbecue for dinner.

Spider crabs – easily recognisable by their red shells and long limbs, spider crabs have a claw-span up to 80cm and live up to 40 years.

Seals – the most frequently sighted mammals in Cornwall, seals are playful and inquisitive, s they’re likely pop up and eyeball you as you paddle by.

Dolphins – the most magical sight is a pod of dolphins, their fins dancing above the waves.

Discover adrenaline-pumping adventures and unforgettable experiences with Newquay’s wild activities.

Find your place by the sea with a self-catering holiday in Cornwall.

 

Bringing our favourite Whistlefish artwork to life

Have you been to any of these Cornwall locations?

Chances are, you’ve stepped into one of our Beach Retreats and spotted a beautiful piece of artwork from Whistlefish. Whistlefish supports artists locally and nationally, handpicking a selection of their favourites in traditional, contemporary and modern artistic styles.

Below we will be sharing some of our favourite pieces, pairing them with our must do activities in the locations painted. If you like any of the artwork shown, click the photo to each print and head over to their online shop or visit one of their galleries across Cornwall and Devon.

How many of these locations have you explored?

Interested in staying in our most luxurious holiday cottages? Check out our luxury coastal cottages.

Camel Estuary

We just love walking the coast path that follows the Camel Estuary. Start off in Rock (home to two of our luxury Beach Retreats) and walk around to Daymer Bay and onto Polzeath. For a truly unique experience, like no other, jump on the ferry that pulls into Rock Road, and sail over to the opposite side to the estuary to the picture perfect Padstow Harbour. Here you’ll find a wonderful collections of shops, galleries (including our go to Whistlefish store) restaurants and bars. Tuck into some fish and chips on the harbour wall, but be sure to watch out for those pesky seagulls.

Search all Beach Retreats near the Camel Estuary.

Camel Estuary – Whistlefish

 

Porthcurno

If we could show you what paradise looks like in Cornwall, this would be it. Porthcurno is located in west Cornwall, close to Land’s End and is an artists dream to paint. It’s azure blue waters, wild flowered clifftops and rock formations attract visitors all year round. Walk the clifftops over to Pedn Vounder and Treen, if you’re lucky you may even spot the wild ponies that roam here.

The famous Minack Theatre is located opposite the beach, perfectly carved into the cliffs. Take a seat in the cliff-side amphitheatre to watch one of their plays, a unique experience you’ll never forget.

Search all Beach Retreats near Porthcurno.

Cornwall Path – Rick Smith

Want to explore more of Cornwall? Have a look at our Sennen holiday properties.

Mother Ivey’s Bay

Soft powder sands, turquoise waters and the most stunning surroundings. Mother Ivey’s Bay is a quiet beach all year round, tucked away behind Trevose Head near Padstow, with the headland to the north and cliffs to the rear providing this beautiful beach with plenty of shelter from the wind. Parking is a mile away at Harlyn Bay, making this a little more difficult to get to, but if you have time, the coastal walk is breathtaking and having a beach to yourselves is certainly a reward for the walk.

Grab a photo of the lifeboat station that is located here.

Search Beach Retreats near Mother Ivey’s Bay.

Mother Ivey’s Bay – Whistlefish

 

Fistral beach

You should have all heard of the world famous Fistral beach in Newquay. Described as Cornwall’s surfing capital and home to some of the most popular surfing competitions in the world. Ramble along the coast path to neighbouring Little Fistral and home to where Newquay Activity Centre offer a fantastic selection of activities.

For some fun that involves the whole family, we recommend the Family Fistral Rangers, a unique exploration of Newquay’s incredible coastline, pitched to suit all ages. They combine the skills of surfing, bodyboarding, eco coasteering, rock pooling and beach safety on the stunning shores surrounding the Fistral coastline, to create a family adventure like no other. The coastal weather and sea state dictate the activities but our instructors are fully qualified in delivering super-fun sessions with embedded ocean safety, heritage and wildlife lessons.

Find out more on what Newquay Activity Centre have to offer.

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Fistral Beach – Whistlefish

 

Marazion

Oh sweet Marazion, home to the majestic St Michael’s Mount, our favourite National Trust attraction. Take the journey over to the unique tidal island and breathe in the sea air. Scented with springtime blossom or summer herbs, view the collection that includes puya, aloe, and agave rearing out of the bedrock, with succulents forming hot spots of suprise throughout the garden.

The castle itself has shades of the past in every room and new discoveries waiting around every corner, dig deep into the Mount’s history, experience a different kind of family home or simply let your imagination run wild.

Book tickets online ahead of your visit.

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St Michael’s Mount – Simon Harmer

 

Watergate Bay

With two miles of golden, wave-lashed sands flanked by cliffs flecked with sea pinks and gorse, it’s little wonder that surfers, dog walkers and beach lovers flock here for the fusion of wild scenery, rolling waves and beachside restaurants.

A true haven on the edge of the UK’s surfing capital, Watergate Bay was once a hot spot for dedicated surfers awaiting the Atlantic swells. But in recent years it’s stepped up to cater for the well-heeled wannabe surf gang, who can hit the waves and return to the creature comforts of swanky beachside accommodation, and dine in some of the region’s foodie hotspots.

Here our go to activity is to dine at Emily Scott Food, watch the waves roll in and grab an after dinner cocktail at the iconic Beach Hut.

View our Watergate Bay Beach Retreats.

Watergate Bay – Whistlefish

 

Wheal Coates Mine

For a real Cornish experience we highly recommend a visit to Wheal Coates Mine in St Agnes. Located on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, this is the most photographed former tin mine in Cornwall. Park at Chapel Porth Beach car park and step onto the coast path following the ebb & flow of the ocean. If you have time, pack up a picnic and perch in front of the mine with a traditional Cornish pasty or a cream tea (jam first of course).

Love ice cream? The beach below is famous for its ‘Hedgehog ice cream’. Enjoy a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, with a large dollop of clotted cream rolled in caramelised hazelnuts or fudge. Sounds delicious right?

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A Sunny Day at Wheal Coates – Georgie Harrison

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To see more artwork from Whistlefish visit their online shop. 

Walk through Watergate Bay

Watergate Bay

Surfing hub and stylish beach resort, Watergate Bay effortlessly flaunts the chic coastal lifestyle.

With two miles of golden, wave-lashed sands flanked by cliffs flecked with sea pinks and gorse, it’s little wonder that surfers, dog walkers and beach lovers flock here for the fusion of wild scenery, rolling waves and beachside restaurants.

Visiting Cornwall with an electric car? Check out our holiday lets with electric car (EV) charging points.

A true haven on the edge of the UK’s surfing capital, Watergate Bay was once a hot spot for dedicated surfers awaiting the Atlantic swells. But in recent years it’s stepped up to cater for the well-heeled wannabe surf gang, who can hit the waves and return to the creature comforts of swanky beachside accommodation, and dine in some of the region’s foodie hotspots.

Watergate Bay

View Watergate Bay in all its glory when you walk from neighbouring Porth beach. Fuel up on coffee and deck yourself out in the latest coastal style at Roo’s Beach, then strike out along the rugged promontory of Porth Island – where you can find the remains of an Iron Age castle and witness the sea spraying from the blow hole at mid tide.

Fancy staying in Watergate Bay? Check out our luxury holiday properties in Watergate Bay, Newquay.

At low tide you can descend the steep cliff staircase at Whipsiderry and make sandy footprints all the way to Watergate Bay (just be careful not to get cut off by the tides). However, the best views are captured from the coast path, which hugs the cliffs and boasts breath-taking views of Newquay and the North Cornish coast.

Once you get to Watergate Bay, there are plenty of places to pause and immerse yourself in the surfy vibe. Try an array of watersports – from surfing to hand planing – at the Extreme Academy, and pop into the Shop on the Beach to get all the kit you need for a day at the seaside.

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes down to places to eat with a sea view. Local food hero Emily Scott will be serving locally sourced produce in rustic dishes at Emily Scott Food. For something more laidback, grab a table at the Beach Hut for seafood and extreme hot chocolates with sandy toes. Or for a fusion of American cuisine and classic Cornish ingredients, opt for Zacry’s at Watergate Bay Hotel. Also in the hotel is the Living Space, which is a divine spot for coffee, sharing platters and classic dishes with expansive ocean views.

Hot chocolate at Watergate Bay

Keep your eye on the local events calendar during your visit, as Watergate Bay has become a buzzing venue for all sorts of events and entertainment. As well as being the site for Boardmasters – Europe’s largest surfing and music festival, it’s also host to a drive-in cinema, SUP championships, a speed hill climb and a pumping New Year’s Eve party.

Being a vast, dog-friendly beach there’s plenty of space to stretch your legs and get away from the crowds. Wait for the tide to ebb and walk to the North end, where you’ll find turquoise rock pools teeming with blennies, crabs and other sea critters. Take the South West Coast Path north and you can follow two miles of eye-popping scenery to the next sandy runway of Mawgan Porth. Keep your eyes peeled for rare seabirds and dolphins at Beacon Cove – coastal wildlife flocks to this pristine and inaccessible beach.

Experience the magic of the season and discover festive nights at Watergate Bay.

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5 webcams to watch in Cornwall

Stay close to Cornwall wherever you are with some of our favourite beachside webcams

We appreciate you are missing our amazing Cornish beaches at the moment, so we’ve handpicked five webcams that allow you enjoy a sneak peek at some of your favourite locations.

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Watergate Bay

Home to many of our contemporary self-catering holiday homes, you’ll find plenty to watch at Watergate Bay no matter what the season. See the local surfers catch a morning wave, watch wild swimmers take the plunge and spot wind surfers and dog walkers in abundance. This webcam is positioned at The Beach Hut, one of our favourite go to places to grab a bite to eat as the sun sets.

Watch Watergate Bay webcam.

 

Whitsand Bay

With its dramatic scenery, craggy cliffs and long stretch of golden sand, Whitsand Bay is located in south east Cornwall and is home to six of our contemporary coastal cabins. Surf brand Magic Seaweed have placed a webcam here for locals to check the surf before heading down the winding paths and cliff. This beautiful stretch of Cornish coast is bound by the Lynher and Tamar rivers, the Hamoaze and the sea. Known as Cornwall’s ‘Forgotten Corner’, Whitsand Bay is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Watch Whitsand Bay webcam.

 

Fistral Beach

If you miss jumping from bed to board and need a quick surf fix, this Fistral beach webcam will certainly do the trick. Known as one of Cornwall’s top surfing spots, Fistral is home to countless surf festivals, Rick Stein’s Fistral, The Fish House, Fistral Surf School and our luxury beachside apartments and houses. Watch the surfers head in at sunrise or catch a famous Fistral sunset. This large beach is dog friendly all year round, so you’ll certainly see some wagging tails.

Watch Fistral Beach webcam.

Want to stay in Newquay? Have a look at our luxury holiday properties in Newquay.

Interested in finding out more about Newquay? Discover what to do in and around Newquay.

Rock Beach

From bobbing boats, to kayakers and stand up paddle boarders, Rock in north Cornwall is an exclusive watersports destination giving you plenty to follow when missing your Cornish slice of heaven. The beach provides a long expanse of golden sand at low tide, leading round to Brea Hill and the popular Daymer Bay. Watch the world go by and start planning your next adventure to one of our brand new Rock properties, Bijou and Ferrypoint.

Watch Rock Beach webcam.

 

Minack Theatre and Porthcurno

Take a peek at Cornwall, way down west and watch the waves crash against the cliffs at the famous open air Minack Theatre. Its backdrop can’t be beaten with Pedn Vounder and Porthcurno’s white Caribbean like sand and crystal clear water. Keep your eyes peeled between May and September and sit back whilst a live theatrical play takes place.

Watch Minack Theatre webcam.

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Weekend retreat in Cawsand

Cawsand

CawsandLocal blogger Hayley Spurway and her family cast away to Cawsand for a weekend…

Following the directions along narrow, winding streets to reach The Penthouse 4 The Bay, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you might end up driving straight into the sea. It’s only just before you hit the shoreline that you turn into an underground parking lot beneath a brand new complex of beachside apartments: one of which was our weekend pad.

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SWANKY BEACH PAD

While the boys’ jaws dropped at the technical bling and bunk beds – with a PS4, bedside screens and all the gadgets they’re not allowed at home – I was stunned by the eye-popping views and our proximity to the big blue and. A serene ocean-scape flooded through every window, with a pop-out balcony in my penthouse suite, where I could soak up said views and listen to the meditative echo of the waves in a private sanctuary, squirrelled away from the rest of the house. I even had control of my own Sonos sound system, so with excitement levels running high and the boys already commandeering the soundtrack downstairs, I cranked up my own tunes, took a deep breath of briny air, and kicked back on the plump cushions scattered on the bed. Bliss.

SEASIDE LIFESTYLE

Ensconced in the coastal lifestyle, our hectic pace of life quickly adjusted to the beat of the ocean and the steady ebb and flow of the tides. We eased open electric blinds to watch the sublime sunrise over Plymouth Sound, where sailing boats crossed the watery border between Devon and Cornwall. Our bare feet padded across the sand and along the cobbled seaside lanes, on the way to buy fresh sourdough bread from The Old Bakery – ready for breakfast after an invigorating sea swim. Skimming stones for the dog to chase, splashing in the shallows and swimming out to sea until the cold water prickled our skin, sparked a hearty appetite for coffee and eggs, served back on our balcony overhanging the sea.

Take a scenic walk through Lynton and Lynmouth, exploring their charming streets, historic landmarks, and breathtaking coastal views in North Devon.

CAR-FREE ADVENTURES

Although we were content to while away hours in our beach pad – playing snakes and ladders and scrabble, and gorging on Cornish cream teas (the ingredients thoughtfully provided by the owners) – it was time to breakout on some family adventures and explore this divine and ‘forgotten corner’ of Cornwall. So, fresh Cornish pasties in hand, and with the dog in tow, we climbed aboard the little Cawsand Ferry, which puttered to and from the beach, right outside our door.

Explore the picturesque village of Cawsand in South Cornwall with Beach Retreats, offering charming cottages and stunning coastal views for a relaxing getaway.

Passing maritime and military landmarks, we crossed the watery border into Devon, tracking a course towards the iconic Smeaton’s Tower – a lighthouse that was originally built to deter sailors from Eddystone Reef, then moved stone by stone Plymouth Hoe in 1884. Climbing the lighthouse tower is just one of the amazing things to do once the ferry moors in Plymouth, and another family favourite is a visit to the largest aquarium in the UK. However, after a ramble along the Barbican, we stepped into the fascinating Mayflower museum, took a twirl along the hoe, and tucked into fish and chips. By then is was already time to hop back on the ferry for a bumpy crossing back to Cawsand, which was swiftly followed by a sundowner at The Bay, basking in the last glimpse of the autumn sunshine.

HOME COMFORTS

Despite a tempting menu at The Bay bar and restaurant, we chose to head back upstairs and make use of the high-spec kitchen in our penthouse. After all, what’s the point in residing in a stylish beach house if you don’t make the most of it? Whether you want to throw a dinner party or cook up a hearty family feast, the kitchen is well equipped for all occasions. And whether you’re cooking, chilling out on the sofa, or sitting at the dinner table, the views from the open-plan living space far outdo those from the restaurant downstairs (even if our food wasn’t as high calibre as the seafood-biased menu being served there).

DOG-FRIENDLY DAYS

The beauty of being able to bring your dog to stay at The Bay is that are so many walks on the doorstep. From October to Easter you can pad straight out onto the dog-friendly sands with your morning coffee, while neighbouring Kingsand beach is paw-friendly year round. Keen for a picturesque Sunday stroll, we made tracks along the South West Coast Path, following chestnut-littered paths beneath woodland canopies, to the Rame Peninsula.

With the trail never veering more than a pebble’s throw from the water, we peeped through the autumn leaves to sailing boats on Plymouth Sound, before emerging at the historic Penlee Battery. This made the perfect spot for a picnic, while the kids made the most of nature’s playground, clambering on craggy rocks where fishermen lured Sunday lunch onto their lines. The coast path continues all the way to the chapel perched on the tip of Rame Head, or you can follow a circular route back to Kingsand.

SURF’S UP

Staying at The Bay, there’s no need for a car to enjoy plenty of family adventures by ferry and foot. However, the whisper of a wave on nearby Whitsand Bay was enough to nudge us to start the engine, and explore the sweeping expanse of coastline wrapping its way back towards south Cornwall. Winding along mile-upon-mile of wave-lashed coastline, it makes an epic road trip through a landscape that echoes with history and legend. It’s thought that Freathy Cliffs are still haunted by the ghost of a smuggler named Silas Finn, who betrayed his friends to save himself from the authorities.

Sitting beneath the cliffs at Eddystone Beach Café, we watched the surfers who now flock to this coastline in place of the smugglers and seafarers of days gone by. It’s the juxtaposition of past and present – the meeting of a rich heritage and state-of-the-art living – that makes this ‘forgotten corner’ of Cornwall so magical. And as the sun went down on our weekend away, we felt relaxed and rejuvenated, having been immersed in the history and beauty of Cornwall, all from the comfort of a contemporary beach house.

THE LOWDOWN:

The Penthouse, 4 The Bay, The Bound, Cawsand
Sleeps 8 in 4 spacious bedrooms with en suites
Dog-friendly.

Book a stay at The Penthouse 4 The Bay in Cawsand.

King of the Surf – Pete Abell, Day in the Life of

Do you dream about making a career out of living by the beach and surfing? We catch a few waves with Pete Abell of KingSurf, to get the lowdown on running your own surf school in Cornwall. But before you read on, check this video showcasing a typical day in the life of a surf instructor.

IT’S A BEAUTIFUL OCTOBER DAY when I paddle out at Mawgan Porth to meet Pete in the waves. When there’s 2-3ft clean surf, there’s nowhere better to meet a surf instructor than in the very territory that set his path to running one of the best surf schools in Cornwall. As he rides wave after wave, chatting enthusiastically between each ride, Pete’s passion for surfing and the ocean shows no bounds. Eventually I persuade to get him to return to dry land, for a coffee and chat.

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WAKE UP CALL

“Every morning when I wake up, I look out the window to see if the sky’s blue and the surf’s good. I get the coffee machine going, check the waves and the flag on the back on the surf school, to decide whether it’s worth leaving the wife and the baby to head in for a surf before I’ve got two or three lessons to teach. I often wake up 5am, and once I’ve looked outside I can’t get back to sleep if the conditions are good – I just want to be out there in the waves.”

FAMILY MAN

“I’m actually just a regular Dad – a family man. As I’ve got older I’ve found myself getting up less and less for those early surfs. I end up playing with the baby and wooden train set instead. I do try and get a surf in for myself every day if I can, but most mornings my wife and I walk up to the top of the cliffs together to get a better view of what the waves and banks are doing from a higher point of view. If it’s looking good, we’ll come back, have breakfast and get in.”

BEACH HOUSE

“I live right beside the surf school, in Mawgan Porth. Which is great in the winter when you can just pop down, do your lesson or have a surf, then get warm again. And it’s easy to nip down and get the boards out to be geared up and ready for the first lesson each morning. But sometimes in the summer you can end up spending all your time at work. I spend practically all my time in Mawgan Porth – work there, sleep there, socialise there – it’s a great community. I can go six weeks without leaving the valley. If Tesco didn’t deliver I wouldn’t eat.”

Fancy staying in Mawgan Porth? Have a look at our Mawgan Porth holiday properties.

CALL OF THE OCEAN

“My father took me to Mawgan Porth when I was eight and we borrowed some foamies to mess around in the waves. As soon as we got home to Gloucestershire I craved being back by the beach, even at that young age. Whenever we went on holiday to the beach I’d spend about 10 hours a day in the sea. We had family holidays all over Cornwall, but as soon as I got my driving licence I always returned to Mawgan Porth. Eventually it became my home. And now the time’s come for me to pass that love for the ocean onto my own son, Marlon. He stood up on his first wave at Mawgan Porth when he was 11 months old.”

SURFING

“Surfing’s become so popular now. We run two or three surfing lessons a day. We don’t want our group sizes to get too big, so we keep the ratios down by running three, or even four lessons a day. We put everyone in groups that suit their ability, and try to keep that personal experience. Mawgan Porth beach is so wide at low tide, that even if there are three groups running simultaneously, you feel like you have plenty of space.

We’ve got huge boards and high-tech kit, so everyone’s got a 99% chance of standing up in their first lesson. Our main aim is make sure you ride your first wave and are stoked. But we also ensure we teach you about staying safe in the ocean.

I love watching people progress, then see them come back with their own board (I’ll even take them to the shop to make sure they get the right board to suit them) for the odd advanced lesson. It’s not just the physical progression; what I love most is when I see that I’ve made surfing a part of someone’s life.”

SEASONS

“Look at us – we’re sat here in short sleeves, balmy sunshine, just out of the sea. September and October are the best months ever in Cornwall, and May and June are epic, too. The best advice I can give to families and couples that don’t have to fit in with school holidays, is to come down before and after peak season. In fact, the most under-rated season in Cornwall is winter. It’s just so good – there’s no one here, it’s half the price to stay anywhere, there are no queues, you can book a table at any restaurant, and the waves can be amazing. We run winter surf camps – including food, surf forecasting and video analysis – that we can run from your Beach Retreat. It’s a huge step up from a regular surfing lesson.”

BRAVING THE ELEMENTS

“Bad weather can make surfing even better. And it’s way more fun than playing pitch and putt in the rain! When you head out in the wind and rain, I know you’re committed and that you really want to learn to surf. I would – hand on heart – say that I can keep you as warm in the winter as I can in the summer. Sometimes even warmer. We’ve got 5mm wetsuits, hoods, boots and gloves. A bit of wind and blown out waves aren’t going to affect you if you’re just learning. And if you’re intermediate and looking for green waves to progress on, we’ll take you to a more sheltered beach. Being on the outskirts of Newquay, we’re so lucky to have access to beaches for all different conditions.”

MUSIC

I used to listen punk or heavy metal to get me amped for surfing. But now I go surfing just to glide around on the waves and I don’t push myself. So I prefer to listen to something mellow like Ben Howard instead. I go out to be at one with the sea and in harmony with nature. The older I get the less waves I want. To let someone else go and catch the stoke is almost as good as having it myself.

LIFESTYLE

I love the surfing and beach lifestyle here in Cornwall. The pace is less hectic and the nature of life is less competitive. People pay thousands of pounds to come down and live the lifestyle that we live every day… the surf, the laid-back social life and the sundowners. 99% of my life revolves around surfing. We’re so lucky to call this place home.

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