Top 10 beaches in Cornwall
It’s no secret that Cornwall is home to some of the best beaches in the UK. Think turquoise waters, white sands and a stunning coastline. We’ve rounded up 10 of our favourites you should tick off your beach bucket list:
1. Kynance Cove
Deemed one of the most Instagrammable locations, Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula, South Cornwall is a popular beach for holidaymakers. From clear waters to impressive rock formations, it’s the perfect spot for a swim, sunbathe or sandcastle-building session. Try out the delicious cream teas or crab sandwiches from the café too - you won’t be disappointed!
2. Sennen Cove
A brilliant surfing beach, Sennen Cove is popular if you’re into your board sports, thanks to its strong riptides. If it’s relaxation you’re after, then the soft white sands are waiting for you! Beautiful all year round for walks or picnics, it’s not one to be missed.
3. Fistral Beach
The ultimate surfers’ paradise, Fistral Beach is hugely popular due to its consistent waves with big swells and barrels. Home to various surfing competitions and the popular music festival, Boardmasters, in August, there’s plenty to do in and out of the sea.
4. Praa Sands
Located on a sheltered part of the coast between Marazion and Porthleven, Praa Sands has an utterly flat sea during the summer – perfect for kids to swim and paddle. There are plenty of shops, cafés and toilets just a short walk from the beach.
5. Porthcurno Beach
Just along the coast from Penzance is the beautiful expanse of white sand and clear blue sea at Porthcurno. Home to the Minack Theatre, perched atop the cliffs, lovers of the theatrics can enjoy Shakespeare with perhaps one of the best views around!
6. Porthmeor Beach
The most westerly beach in St Ives, this idyllic sandy bay is popular with surfers and families. Just a short walk from the centre of St Ives it’s close to shops, cafés and restaurants. Stop off at the Tate gallery before grabbing an ice-cream and relaxing on the sand, or heading into the surf.
7. Perranporth Beach
Miles of sand, surfing spots galore and a pub on the beach, what’s not to love about Perranporth? Grab yourself an ice-cream or traditional Cornish pasty and enjoy sandy walks, surf and plenty of seaside family fun.
8. Holywell Bay
If you want to escape the busy streets of Newquay then Holywell Bay offers all the beauty of the beach without the bustle of too many visitors. The kids can play on the network of sand dunes and rock pools while you relax on the mile-long sandy shore. There are toilets, lifeguards and cafes – everything you need for a great day out!
9. Godrevy Beach
Stretching from Hayle to Godrevy Head, this beach is the northernmost and most dramatic of the Cornish beaches. Enjoy three miles of white sand with a walk to the headland and Godrevy lighthouse – a real-life inspiration for Virginia Woolfe’s novel To The Lighthouse. A National Trust car park and café can also be found tucked behind the dunes.
10. Constantine Bay
Another children’s paradise is Constantine Bay near Padstow. A beautifully wide beach with rock pools and grassy dunes, it’s a haven for outdoor fun. If you’re into surfing then you’ve hit upon a top spot, though the area is known for strong rip currents, so it’s more for experienced surfers. During the summer there are lifeguards on duty and visitors can use the small car park and toilets on site.
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