Seven bays in seven days
Category: Favourite beaches
Explore Croyde
The forgotten corner of Cornwall
A guided walk on the Morwenstow cliffs by David Myers
The phrases “off the beaten track” and “hidden gem” are often used to describe Cornish beaches and villages, which, upon arrival to the teeming carpark, are evidently anything but. However, Cornish wildnerness guide David Myers would like to introduce you to a place which might well be Cornwall’s best representation of the above terms.
There’s a good chance that you’ve never heard of Morwenstow, the wild and windswept coastal parish at the extreme North end of the county, and there’s a good reason why – it’s literally not on the map (well, a lot of them!). The postcard below is a great example: the 7-mile stretch north of Bude has been chopped off, an unwieldly inconvenience to the map maker.
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This isn’t a negative, far from it. It’s a unique quirk about the area which only adds to its feeling of remoteness. An hour’s drive to the nearest dual carriageway, and a further half-hour more to the closest motorway and proper train station, you really have to make an effort to get to this place. But those who do will be rewarded with some of the most unspoiled, stunning and quiet stretches of coastline in the South West. On a sunny August bank holiday, if there are more than 5 people on some of the beaches it’s classified by the locals as busy.
There are no settlements on the Morwenstow coastline, just a string of remote beaches and coves, towering clifftops and rugged coastal scenery. The only building you will encounter is a tiny cabin, constructed in 1843 by an eccentric vicar from the salvaged timbers of a ship wrecked on the jagged rocks far below. It’s been standing there defiantly for the past 180 years, surviving all manner of storms the Atlantic has thrown at it, and serves as a visual reminder to the area’s wild history of shipwrecks, piracy and smuggling. Even the local pub, the Bush Inn, owes its name to a code the smugglers used to distinguish friend from foe.
Fancy staying in Bude, near Morwenstow? Check out our luxury holiday lets in Bude.
Hawker’s Hut by David Myers
That’s not to say the coastline is all that this area has to offer. You can head inland up one of the many deep, wooded valleys, surrounded by ancient oaks. It’s a paradise for walkers and trail runners, with the vast network of paths leading into the parishes of Welcombe and Hartland, forming a network of hundreds of miles of adventure, where you will most likely not encounter a soul.
Bluebell lined woodland trail by David Myers
If cycling is more your thing, the quiet country lanes make an excellent way to explore the area. An electric bike, hidden beaches, a 13th century pub and a tearoom all combine to make an unforgettable day out.
If you’d to experience perhaps Cornwall’s best kept secret then visit www.davidmyers.co.uk or Instagram @davidmyersguide. David is a wilderness guide and Morwenstow native who offers guided walking, trail running and electric bike trips in the area, for people who want to experience the quieter side of North Cornwall and Devon. From easy one-hour history walks, to challenging all-day and multi-day adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Experience the best of nearby Padstow with our guide to a week-long stay, featuring must-see attractions, delicious dining, and picturesque coastal walks.
Discover Sennen
Sennen has it all. A cool, laid-back surf vibe meets traditional fisherman’s cottages and bobbing boats; dolphins dive in the rolling surf; cold pints and pub grub are served at 17th century pubs; and kids and hikers alike soak up the rays along the long stretch of coast.
We recently set off from Gwynver Beach House to explore the area, but you can park at any of the three village car parks (or Gwynver beach car park) if you’re visiting for the day.
See our Relive video from the day.
Let’s go…
Start at Gwynver
To begin your Sennen adventure, set out from Gwynver, a rugged sandy beach with dramatic panoramas from the cliffs above. If you’re staying at Gwynver Beach House, take the short walk from the bottom of your garden, or park up at Gwynver car park and take the steps down to the sand. Be sure to stop for photos at the top, though: this spot offers breathtaking views.
Gwynver beach
If you’re craving some peace and quiet, Gwynver beach is the spot for you. Whether you’re up for picnicking on the sand, catching some waves on your surfboard, or simply basking in the sun’s warmth, Gwynver offers the ideal setting to unwind and recharge. Flanked by sloping cliffs and rocky coastal path, this beach offers a sheltered sunbathing experience.
Coast path
Once you’ve cooled down in the blue waters, head out along the coast path, marked by nature trail signs, which winds around to Sennen Cove. This path is slightly rocky and rugged, with a bit of clambering involved, but its more than worth it for the views as you make your way around towards Sennen.
Dolphins are known to populate this spot, so keep your eyes peeled as you stroll.
Sennen Cove
You’ll arrive at Sennen Cove through the small sand dunes and sea grass. Here, you can stop for another beach nap or paddle, hire surf equipment and take to the waves, or tuck into some snacks and drinks on the sand. This cove is perfect for kids, with its small beach streams, plenty of wet sand for bucket and spade play, and gentle waves between the lifeguard flags, great for bodyboarding.
Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.
Sennen village
From the sand, you’re close to any kind of traditional beach food or drink you fancy. Walk just a few steps up to The Old Success Inn, a 17th century pub with a large beer garden overlooking the sea. Here, you can sip some local ales, tuck into a pub lunch, and dolphin watch under a parasol.
Head to the Round House & Capstan Gallery, a unique circular art gallery with lovely views through the crooked windows. Here you can pick up some local artwork to take home with you, or get inspired to do some painting of your own during your stay.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Sennen without enjoying some fish and chips. Tuck into the very best locally caught haddock, with lashings of salt and vinegar, either in one of the old-school seafront diners or taken away and enjoyed on the sand.
Day trips nearby
Sennen is in a prime position in West Cornwall, a short drive from some of Cornwall’s most famous attractions and some lesser-known beauties. If you’re staying here for longer, plan a day out and see what’s nearby.
Check out our other locations and other retreats across West Cornwall.
Land’s End
Just a pebble’s throw away from Sennen, Land’s End is an iconic landmark that marks the westernmost point of mainland England. Take a stroll along the cliffs and snap some photos at the famous signpost – it’s one for the Cornwall bucket list.
Minack Theatre and Porthcurno
Discover the magic of the Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre perched on the cliffs overlooking Porthcurno beach. Starlit evenings are best spent watching a show here, snuggled under a blanket.
Porthcurno beach below is a dream on a summer’s day, with hues that echo the greens and blues of the Maldives.
Mousehole
A short drive from Sennen, Mousehole is probably the closest you’ll get to the fully traditional fishing village atmosphere. Cobbled streets conceal tiny art galleries, delis, a local post office and makeshift plant stalls. You may also be able to purchase the catch of the day from a fisherman if you time it right.
Explore more of West Cornwall & unlock the full guide to Porthleven’s sights and activities with our recommendations.
Penzance
This beachy art deco town is home to a colourful array of bars and restaurants, alongside a lido and geothermal pool for 1950s style bathing.
Visit Sennen and stay in one of our retreats nearby, with easy access to beach life.
The 10 best beaches to surf in Cornwall
Have you got a thirst for being amongst the waves? Cornwall’s adrenaline-fuelled surf scene thrives all year round, with surf spots suitable for beginners to world-class pros. Rolling sets and foamy swells are plentiful in Cornwall, especially on the north coast where the exposure to the Atlantic creates big, consistent waves.
If you’ve never tried surfing before, or have a bit of experience and want to improve your skills, many of the popular beaches have their own surf schools where you can dive in with the experts. From full one-on-one lessons, to wetsuit and board hire, there’s an option for everyone whether you need instructor support or prefer to go it alone.
With hundreds of beaches to choose from, it can be hard to figure out where’s best to get suited up and head in. That’s why we’ve created a handy guide to the 10 best surfing beaches in Cornwall, meaning you can waste less time searching and more time in the surf.
Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.
We’ve got retreats within walking distance of all of these popular surfing beaches, so you can head straight from the water and back home on foot, without even needing to change. Find your surf retreat here.
Find the best spots for a post-surf bite to eat or coffee and discover our favourite surf beach cafes in Cornwall.
Fistral Beach, Newquay
One of the most famous surfing beaches on the planet, Fistral Beach is a wide, west-facing beach on the north coast, and its exposure to Atlantic swells ensures consistent waves all year round. The Cribbar, at the north end of the beach, is a famous big wave location, with waves reaching as high as 40 feet. Stand and watch from the headland as the pros tackle it head on, taking in the spray from overhead.
Fistral Beach hosts many national and international surfing competitions, which draw thousands of visitors, and is also the base for annual music and surf festival Boardmasters.
- Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply. Free street parking above Fistral South.
- Lifeguards daily from 9th April – 30th 10am – 6pm patrol.
- Surf equipment hire and lessons.
Surf at sunset while staying at a Fistral retreat.
Gwithian Towans, Hayle
Gwithian is one of the best places to catch a clean wave in Cornwall, whilst avoiding the crowds. Nestled in the heart of the Towans nature reserve, you’ll be surfing amongst untouched beauty and wildlife. Gwithian was recently listed by the Sunday Times in the ‘Top 10 Surf Locations in England’, and makes up part of the three miles of golden sand which stretch from St Ives to Godrevy Head.
- A handful of small car parks nearby, charges apply.
- Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
- Surf equipment hire and lessons.
Seek out a seaside Hayle retreat.
Perranporth beach
Perranporth offers plenty of space to surf, alongside a large beach backed with sand dunes for any little ones to paddle and build sandcastles. For beginners, the beach is more sheltered towards the Droskyn Point end, while the biggest waves can be found at Penhale. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, this classic seaside village has a range of eateries where you can refuel with some fish and chips.
- 3 car parks nearby, charges apply.
- Lifeguards daily from 9th April – 30th 10am – 6pm patrol.
- Surf equipment hire and lessons.
Watch the swell surge from a Perranporth retreat.
Watergate Bay
If you want to avoid the crowds at Fistral, Watergate is your best bet. With an expanse of beach home to consistent swell, this north coast destination is a surfer’s paradise. Waves vary from small and clean to huge and challenging, depending on conditions and swell, so be sure to check local surf reports before heading in!
- 3 car parks nearby, charges apply. Limited free parking at the top of the hill.
- Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
- Surf equipment hire and lessons.
Jump from bed to board at a Watergate Bay retreat.
Widemouth Bay
This popular surfing spot stretches over a mile and a half, and it’s common to see a variety of abilities in the surf here. Near to Bude, this is a great option if you’re staying in either area.
- Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply.
- Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30th April – 25th September, weekends only 1st – 16th October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
- Surf equipment hire and lessons.
Explore the south coast from a Widemouth Bay retreat.
Porthleven beach
This beach isn’t for the beginners, but if you’ve got some skills with a surfboard then you’re guaranteed an adrenaline-filled ride. The powerful waves break onto a shallow reef, creating a wild ride for any surfers who get on board.
- One small car park nearby and one small car park above the town, charges apply.
- Lifeguards daily from 9 July – 4 September.
Find the perfect Porthleven retreat.
Polzeath beach
This family favourite sandy spot is perfect for beginners, with gentle but consistent swell and slow waves. Whether you’re hopping on a surfboard or bodyboard, this north Cornwall location won’t disappoint.
- Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply.
- Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
- Surf equipment hire and lessons.
Tackle the waves at a Polzeath retreat.
Porthtowan beach
Porthtowan is a true locals spot during the winter and also a popular visitor spot in summer. Home to lively waves and a beautiful sandy beach, Porthtowan makes for a great surf spot if you’re staying nearby.
- One large car park close to the beach, charges apply.
- Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
Be by the beach at a Porthtowan retreat.
Holywell Bay
Holywell Bay is a quieter option for those seeking sand dunes, a rugged coastpath and surfable waves. A beautiful, spacious beach to simply relax on, Holywell has enough room for a bit of privacy even at its busiest. The surf here requires a bit of luck and skill, due to the moving tides, but its certainly an option if you want somewhere walkable from your Holywell retreat.
- One large car park close to the beach, charges apply.
- Lifeguards daily 14 May – 25 September, 10am – 6pm patrol.
Whitsand Bay
Hidden away in the corner of south east Cornwall, this beach is one of the county’s hidden gems. With a dramatic cliffscape dotted with mini beach shacks, the walk down to the sand is almost as exhilarating as the waves. The surf is slightly more unreliable than more popular destinations, but is great for escaping the crowds and practising your moves in private.
- Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply. Easiest access is from Tregantle Fort car park.
- Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
- Surf equipment hire and lessons.
Enjoy some calm at a Whitsand Bay retreat.
Check out our other locations and other retreats across North Cornwall.
What to do in Bude, Cornwall
Thinking of booking a trip to Bude and not sure the best things to do around the area? We’ve got you covered. Bude is a stunning seaside town, with two beaches, Crooklets for surf and sunbathing and Summerleaze for dipping in the sea pool. Beyond its sandy beaches there’s also a buzzing foodie scene, array of quirky independent shops and plenty to do. Here’s our ultimate guide of what to do in Bude.
Fancy staying in a holiday retreat with a hot tub? Check out our cottages with a hot tub for a relaxing getaway.
Swim in the sea pool
On the soft sands of Summerleaze beach, you’ll notice a glistening blue slick of water, dotted with swimmers and the odd bobbing gull. Get closer and take a dip in this sea pool, where the water is always calm and the air fresh and salty. A semi-natural pool, this is the perfect spot for a free, safe swim, especially if you have the little ones in tow.
Bude beach yoga
Rise with the first light of dawn and stretch it out. There’s nothing more invigorating than being in harmony with nature, your lungs full of sea air, the only sound the distant crash of waves and your bare feet in the silken sand. Claire Jennings is an established yoga teacher and runs sessions on Crooklets beach in the mornings and at sunset.
Learn to surf
Fancy getting your heart beating and your adrenalin pumping? Grab a board and take to the waves with Big Blue Surf School, where qualified instructors will show you the ropes of this invigorating sport. Situated on Summerleaze beach, you’ll experience the north coast’s consistent swell, and are sure to be standing up in no time.
Experience unforgettable paddleboard days along the Cornish coast, where clear waters and stunning scenery offer the perfect adventure.
Image credit: Big Blue Surf School
Dine at Temple
After a day on the beach, there’s nothing better than heading back to your self-catering holiday retreat for a shower to freshen up before going back out for an evening of fine dining. Try Temple, a beautiful dining spot which serves up simple dishes made with fresh ingredients. Sample small plates of braised fennel, BBQ’d mushrooms, daily fresh fish and porchetta with courgettes and picked shallots, washed down with your choice of white or red.
Sundowners at The Beach at Bude
Bude’s north coast position means it benefits from dramatic sunsets which sink behind the horizon directly before your eyes. Head to The Beach at Bude, a hotel bar and restaurant with a front facing outdoor terrace, to enjoy sundowners with a sunset view. Will it be a light and refreshing mojito to cool down in the summer heat, or a negroni the colour of the sunset sky?
Walk to Widemouth Bay
If you fancy stretching your legs, the nearby coastline towards Widemouth Bay is not to be missed. The walk is three miles along the rugged coast path, and features stunning panoramas and breathtaking sea vistas. If you go in summer, you’ll also spot wildflowers dotted along the cliffs. You may also be lucky enough to see some wildlife, such as sea birds and seals, along the way.
Discover our Widemouth Bay holiday properties.
Find out more about Bude and see our retreats below. Keep an eye on our special offers page, too, for the latest deals and discounts.
Dog friendly attractions in Cornwall
Bringing your dog to the coast is great for all sorts of reasons, the obvious one being the beach – a pup paradise. However, there’s plenty more for you and your four-legged friend to see and do when staying by the sea. When you stay in one of our paw-friendly holiday lets, you can explore all sorts of dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall. From the Eden Project to National Trust gardens, here are some of our favourites.
Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.
Trelissick, Feock
Home to extensive woodland and park trails nudging the River Fal, Trelissick is high on the list of great days out with dogs. With mile-upon-mile of rolling green, woodland trails and a sheltered beach for splashing around, there are plenty of walks to choose from – with a map in the car park so you can choose your terrain and how far you want to roam. Refuel with coffee and cake in the dog-friendly courtyard café, and have a nose in the arts and craft gallery. If you’re feeling energetic and want to explore further, hop on the King Harry Ferry and float over the Roseland Peninsula.
Check out what Falmouth has to offer by staying in one of our bespoke retreats in Falmouth.
Image credit: National Trust
Eden Project, St Austell
Since Cornwall’s biggest visitor attraction opened its doors to dogs, they can join you on adventures along miles of pathways around the tiered gardens, admire the iconic biomes (from the outside) and join you for treats in the undercover eating area. There are a few ground rules to follow – you will need to keep your dog on a lead, and with you, during your visit (you can’t just tether them to a tree and head inside the biomes). However, if you want to take your dog back to your vehicle for part of your visit, there are car parking spaces with a shelter for dogs, one with a water tap.
Image credit: Matt Jessop via Visit Cornwall
Trebah Garden, Helford Passage
Bound beneath canopies of sub-tropical foliage that tumble to the edge of the Helford Estuary, where there’s a divine sandy beach perfect for picnics, stone skimming and throwing sticks out into the calm waters for dogs to retrieve. Families with dogs will love this natural playground, and back at the top of the valley (through the bamboo jungle and the giant Gunnera passage), the Planters Café and picnic area welcomes dogs. There’s water bowls and complimentary poop bags too.
Train to St Ives
Dogs are welcome on one of the UK’s most scenic train journeys from St Erth to St Ives. During the short journey you won’t be able to peel your eyes from the panoramic seascapes, so make sure you seat yourself on the right hand side of the train on the way out to get the best views. Once you’ve done a twirl of St Ives and had a pasty and ice cream by the harbour, you can follow the South West Coast Path an easy mile back to Carbis Bay, before hopping back onboard the train to your starting point. Or, if you and your pup have the stamina, head west from St Ives and hike the six miles to Zennor, looking out for the legendary mermaid and finishing with a well-deserved pint in the Tinner’s Arms.
Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek
If you don’t mind keeping your dog on a lead, a day out at the Sea Life Trust’s seal sanctuary is a fascinating day out for families and wildlife lovers. Enjoy pretty walks along the Helford Estuary, pause for picnics with a view, and get up close to all sorts of animals including seals, otters, sea lions, penguins, ponies, goats and sheep. The main purpose of the sanctuary is to rehabilitate seals rescued around the Cornish coastline, and you can witness rescued seal pups dipping and diving their way to recovery, as well as learn what to do if you find a seal stranded on the beach.
Wheal Martyn Museum and Country Park, St Austell
The UK’s only China Clay museum isn’t only home to hands-on exhibits and audio-visual displays delving into Cornwall’s fascinating history. It’s also home to 26 acres of dog-friendly country park, with woodland walks, nature trails and Cornwall’s largest working waterwheel. Once the dog’s been walked and the kids have run off steam on the commando-style assault course, relax for a taste of the county’s local produce served in the Victorian remains of china clay setting tank.
Image credit: Wheal Martyn
Tintagel Castle, Tintagel
Bring your imagination and your dog (on a lead) across the new footbridge to the 13th century ruins of Tintagel Castle, perched on a wave-lashed granite promontory on Cornwall’s north coast. Once you’ve come face-to-face with a bronze sculpture inspired by the legend of King Arthur, it’s impossible not to get swept away by local myths that link Tintagel to his birth. Back on the beach you can hear your echo in Merlin’s Cave and tuck into locally sourced food and drink at the beach café, before following the footpath back to the Arthurian-themed village. If you want to stretch your legs further, strike out along the coast path to the rugged Trebarwith Strand beach.
If you need any more temptation to bring your pup to Cornwall, read our top dog-friendly restaurants.
To find a beachside retreat at your favourite dog friendly beach, browse our locations and keep an eye on our special offers page for the latest deals and discounts.
The best dog friendly beaches in Cornwall
Holidays just aren’t the same without your dog- they’re part of the family, after all. That’s why Beach Retreats specialises in dog-friendly holiday properties. And you’re spolit for choice when it comes to beaches to visit, with more than 150 different dog-friendly spots to explore, dig, run and play on.
Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.
We’ve compiled a list of the best dog friendly beaches in Cornwall, including the closest ones to our Beach Retreats properties.
Whitsand Bay
This hidden gem in Cornwall’s south coast makes for the perfect doggy day out. With four miles of varying coastline, from gentle coves to dramatic cliff face, Whitsand offers lots of beach options of dogs and owners alike. The beach, which is south west facing, stretches the entire four miles at low tide, whilst at high tide there’s four different beaches to choose from. All are dog friendly all year round, and benefit from being quieter than other beaches in Cornwall.
Browse our Whitsand Bay retreats to find a place for you and your pup nearby.
Watergate Bay
Watergate Bay is dog friendly year round and actively encourages you to bring your dogs onto the sand to play. With over two miles of sandy beach with rock pools and sea caves to explore, it’s fair to say your dog will love it here. And once you’re both tired out, head to dog friendly The Beach Hut restaurant for something to eat and drink.
Find a Watergate Bay retreat.
Porth beach
Porth beach, situated between Newquay and Watergate Bay, is a large, west-facing, sandy beach with a long tidal drop. Porth Beach welcomes dogs through the winter months of October to Easter but throughout the main season dogs are only allowed from 7pm-9am, meaning sunset strolls or early morning paddles are calling.
Find a dog friendly Porth retreat.
Whipsiderry Beach
Whipsiderry is dog friendly year round, and is perfect if you’re Beach Retreating at Porth or Watergate Bay. Whipsiderry is a beautiful, quiet beach, situated on the coastline between Porth and Watergate, with sheltering cliffs and an abundance of rock pools and caves for hours of exploring fun. There are a set of steep steps to gain access to the beach but it’s worth the climb to step foot on this peaceful sandy cove.
Explore more of what Whipsiderry has to offer, with our nearby Porth holiday properties.
Perranporth
Perranporth is a dog paradise, as not only is it dog friendly all year round, it’s huge! At low tide Perranporth beach and neighbouring Penhale sands join together to make one of the largest stretches of unbroken sand on the north coast. Let your dog off the lead and send them chasing after their ball along the shore, they’ll love it. You can then recharge at The Watering Hole, which is also dog friendly.
Find a Perranporth retreat for you and your four-legged friend.
Mawgan Porth
Mawgan Porth is another year round dog friendly beach, and is perfect if you’re staying at Porth or Watergate Bay too. Even at high tide, Mawgan Porth has plenty of sand to run ragged on. Compared to other beaches on the north Cornwall coast, Mawgan Porth is fairly quiet, allowing you and your dog a more peaceful visit.
Find a retreat in Mawgan Porth.
Fistral Beach
Fistral is possibly the most popular beach in north Cornwall, and the beach is a wide expanse of sand sheltered by two headlands, perfect for letting your pup off the lead. Dogs are welcome at Fistral beach year round, and its sunset views and on the beach bar and restaurant complex make it tempting to stay late into the evening.
Gwenver Beach
Perfect if you’re Beach Retreating at Sennen.
Accessed at low-tide to the right of Sennen beach, or at the base of steep granite cliffs from the coastal – Gwenver’s difficult access stops the beach from ever getting too crowded, so you and your dog need to be fit. There’s rockpools, shipwrecks and pools to explore with dogs welcome all year round.
Find a retreat in the nearby Sennen Cove.
If you need any more temptation to bring your pup to Cornwall, read our top five reasons to bring your dog on holiday.
Discover the best dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall, offering fun and adventure for you and your furry friend in this beautiful coastal region.
What is the Nicest Beach in Cornwall? Our Top Picks
Want to know the nicest beach in Cornwall? Well, you’re in luck – there are plenty to choose from. In fact, there’s so many beaches in Cornwall (over 400) that we can’t pick our favourite. Cornwall’s position means it has coastline facing different angles of the ocean and therefore its landscape is dramatically varied. This creates different kind of beaches – the north coast tends to have more surfing beaches, flanked with high cliffs, and benefits from spectacular sunsets, whereas the south coast is more sheltered, with more rugged clifftops and hidden sandy beaches.
We’ve picked our favourite from the north, west and south of Cornwall, ready and waiting for you to visit on your next Cornwall beach holiday!
Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.
So, grab the beach towel and flip flops, and we’ll see you down on the sand.
The nicest beach in north Cornwall
There were many contenders for this one. The north coast is home to the likes of Newquay, Padstow, Watergate and Bude, all areas with world-famous beaches. But there’s one beach which just had to be crowned the nicest – Fistral beach.
Want to stay in Newquay? Have a look at our luxury holiday properties in Newquay.
A long stretch of golden sand, grassy sand dunes, consistent waves and ruby red sunsets – what’s not to like?
We’ve also got a variety of retreats dotted around Fistral, some with views of the water- find them here.
The nicest beach in south Cornwall
The south coast has it all, from quiet bays in the secluded shores of Downderry, breathtaking cliffside scenes at Whitsand bay and vibrant marina life in Falmouth.
Our favourite, though, just has to be Gyllyngvase beach. Just a short walk from the main Falmouth town centre, this cove is the perfect combination of silky sand and a blue sea which sparkles in the summer sun. Gylly’s often calm water conditions makes it a picturesque spot for stand-up paddleboarding, allowing you to admire its beauty from out on the water.
We’ve got a selection of retreats in the Liner, an elegant development overlooking the beach, meaning you can sit back on your own private balcony and gaze out to sea. Browse our Gyllyngvase retreats here.
The nicest beach in west Cornwall
We love west Cornwall for its undisturbed wildlife and untouched coastline. Home to the much loved towns of Hayle, Sennen, Mousehole and St Ives, this area is truly a gem when it comes to beautifully preserved natural landscapes. Choosing the nicest beach is a difficult task when it comes to west Cornwall, as they are all so uniquely stunning.
But there is one beach which stands out, with its impressive three mile stretch of golden sand impossible to ignore. It is, of course, Gwithian beach in Hayle. This large, open expanse of beach is perfect for dog walking, horse riding and even kite flying, and offers the freshest sea air you could possibly breathe in. For the ultimate Cornish beach experience, look no further.
Find a retreat in Hayle here and stay moments from one of the nicest beaches in Cornwall.
Browse our other beach locations to discover your favourite beach, and keep an eye on our special offers page for discounted stays by the sea.
Explore the 10 best beaches to surf in Cornwall, where perfect waves and stunning coastal scenery promise an unforgettable surfing experience.
How Many Beaches Are There in Cornwall?
Cornwall is famous for its beaches and coastal path, bordered on all three sides by stretches of sand. Its coastline also differs dramatically depending on where you are in the county – the north coast is exposed to stronger swells, creating rugged cliffs and great surfing beaches, whereas the south coast is generally more sheltered and features untouched and pristine coves.
But how many beaches are there in Cornwall?
From swathes of sand spanning miles along the coast to hidden beaches only accessible at low tide, Cornwall’s coast comprises over 400 beaches. We’ve created a guide to the best beaches in Cornwall, whether you’re looking for a family cove, dog-friendly beach or a watersports spot. So on your next visit to Cornwall, you’ll be able to find the right beach for you.
Interested in staying in our most luxurious holiday cottages? Check out our luxury coastal cottages.
All of our retreats are within walking distance of a Cornish beach. Find your ideal beach from our 33 locations, or browse all beach properties with a sea view.
Secluded coves
Cornwall is unique in its varied coastline and unusual rock formations, which creates secluded caves with beautiful structures. More than simply a flat open beach, these coves are the perfect places to visit for finding hidden sun traps, nooks for picnics and pools to swim in.
Our south coast favourites include Kynance Cove in the Lizard Penninsula and Pedn Vounder, near Porthcurno, both of which are widely regarded as some of the most Instagram-worthy beaches in Cornwall due to their mesmerising rock structures and tropical blue water. If you’re on the north coast, try Little Fistral for a more secluded feel, just along the headland from the main beach.
Check out more of what West Cornwall has to offer and explore our holiday lets in The Lizard Peninsula.
Pictured: Pedn Vounder
Best beaches for watersports
A Cornwall beach holiday is a great place to pick up some new skills in the ocean. The north coast in particular offers a beginner’s surfer haven, with Watergate bay and Fistral beach producing consistent surfing conditions. Or, try your hand at kite surfing in the Atlantic breeze. For a gentler option, try stand up paddleboarding or kayaking on the calm waters of Gyllyngvase beach in Falmouth.
Discover Falmouth’s beaches like a local with our insider guide, offering everything you need to know for a memorable seaside escape along the Cornish coast.
Pictured: Watergate Bay
Best beaches for swimming
Wild swimming has massively grown in popularity over recent years, and Cornwall has an array of bays, coves and tidal pools perfect for a cold water dip. It’s generally best to choose somewhere calmer and away from the main swell, as the sea can be unpredictable. Some popular spots include Newquay harbour, Nanjizal, the natural rock arch near Land’s End, and the River Fowey. Always check tide times and safety advice before dipping, and never dip alone.
Pictured: Newquay Harbour
Best beaches for families
What does a family beach look like? To us, it’s a curve of soft sand for castle building, a shoreline for paddling and shell collecting, a sea safely watched by lifeguards, and perhaps a gentle river or stream for little feet to splash about in. This scene comes a reality along the Cornish coast, with the likes of Porth beach, its neighbouring Mawgan Porth and Carlyon bay all popular family beach choices.
Pictured: Carlyon bay
Dog friendly beaches
Last but not least, Cornwall is a paw paradise, with miles of sand and rural space for your four legged friends to run about in. Although some beaches have seasonal dog bans in place, there are plenty which welcome dogs all year round. Some of our favourites include Perranporth beach and Watergate bay, both huge beaches which at low tide reveal endless space for dog walks.
Find a dog friendly retreat here.
Pictured: Watergate Bay
See below for some beach retreat inspiration for your next visit to Cornwall.