Best beaches in Cornwall

Andrea
Sep 15
4 min read

Updated: Sep 25

Cornwall has some of the most beautiful beaches and coastlines I have ever seen. To be honest I never thought the UK would have such beautiful beaches. I'm sure if you mention the UK most people think: lots of rain, the Cotswolds, Football and Cities such as London or Manchester. Beautiful beaches and surfing is not something one would normally associated with the UK. Once you have seen them you will understand why Cornwall has become one of my favourite parts in the world.

A FEW THINGS WORTH KNOWING ABOUT CORNWALL BEACHES

The difference between hightides and low tides is unlike any place. You arrive at the beach during low tight and you have miles of beach to walk and a few hours later it's only the tiniest stretch of beach left.
Don't let the tides catch you out. Once the tides change to high tide, the tide moves very quickly. Don't get trapped at the far end of the beach. It's worth checking the tides or ask lifeguards when the tides come in if you are unsure.
During summer there are lifeguards on most of the beaches. They create dedicated areas for swimmers and for surfers as the beaches can get insanely busy during season.
Most beaches allow dogs, but during summer season the times are restricted. Most beaches don't allow dogs between 10 pm - 6am. Keep this in mind if you are traveling with your dog.
This is a personal opinion that the temperature of the ocean can be very cold, even in summer. If you don't like cold water I suggest bringing or renting a wetsuit.
Many beaches have surf schools during the summer period. Great time to learn to surf.

PERRANPORTH

One of my favourite beaches in Cornwall. It is great for long walks, surfing and swimming.

During low tight the beach stretches 2 miles long, which is wonderful for a relaxing walk surrounded by sand dunes and cliffs. It is a very popular beach, especially during Summer, but the beach stretches far so you should always find a good spot.

Enjoy a G&T and a meal at the Summer House or a drink at the Watering Hole pub situated directly on the Beach, with a view of the sunset over the ocean. The town but has a few restaurants, shops and ice cream parlours.

For a breakfast or lunch on-the-go I recommend Slous Droskyn, situated in the parking lot Droskyn Parking Lot. It is a little Clifftop Kitchen with views of the beach. Their menu includes the traditional breakfast baps, but they do have a vegan sausage bap, which they make from scratch. They also do loaded pitas/ flatbreads and occasionally have a Bean Chilli. The menu does keep changing, so you will have to check on the day. Good for iced coffees or matcha lattes on a hot day.

In the two photos below you can see the water level difference between high and low tight.

FISTRAL BEACH

This is a prime surfing beach with beautiful surroundings, and is part of Newquay. Grab a (iced) coffee from the cafe on the beach. For food options, there are many good restaurants in Newquay.

KYNANS COVE

Turquoise water and white sandy beaches. This beach looks like it should be in the Caribbeans. Getting down to the beach from the parking lot is a bit of a walk, but the views and the swim are worth all the stairs and effort.

Perfect for a refreshing dip or for stand-up boarding. It is a very popular tourist spot, so I recommend going out of season if you don't like busy areas. There is a café on the hill offering a selection of foods such as sandwiches, pasties, ice cream and cakes. I have not eaten at this cafe, so I can't say if it's good or not. I'm also not sure if they have any vegan options.

PORTHTOWAN

Porthtowan is a small town, with a small beach during high tight and a lovely long beach for walking during low tight.

This beach is also great for surfing and swimming.

Grab a Moomaid Ice Cream or Gelato and walk the beach during low tight, with beautiful views of the cliffs.

For breakfast or lunch you can eat at the Beach Cafe Porthtowan. They do have vegan options and also make a good coffee.

The Blue Bar also has vegan options such as Buddah Bowls, Smash Burgers, Vegan Nachos and Curries. The food does look good, but I have not eaten there yet.

WATERGATE BAY

Another beautiful beach surrounded by rugged cliffs and long golden sand stretches during low tide. It's very popular with surfers and kite surfing.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, so you can easily spend the whole day here. Have a glass of ice cold white wine at the Beach Hut with a view of the beach or a meal at the Living Space in the Watergate Bay Hotel. They have a good selection of vegan food options, including a Laksa, Zucchini Linguine or a Miso Noodle Salad.

For a good coffee and a Acai Bowl I suggest The Hangout, which is a bit out of the town centre. It is a take-away cafe with outdoor seating and amazing views.

GWITHIAN (aka 3 MILE BEACH)

We refer to it as the 3 mile beach as the Beach stretches 3 miles during low tide. Surrounded by dunes and a view of the Godrevy Lighthouse. It is popular for swimming, surfing and kite surfing.