Looking for the Best Beaches in Cornwall? Welcome to the sunny shores of Cornwall, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters, and every cove reveals a new slice of paradise. Nestled on the southwestern tip of England, Cornwall boasts some of the finest beaches the UK has to offer. From family-friendly stretches to hidden gems awaiting discovery, there’s a coastline to suit every taste.
Picture-perfect Porthcurno, with its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, invites you to unwind on its soft sands and soak up the Cornish sunshine. Meanwhile, Fistral Beach beckons surf enthusiasts with its legendary waves, promising an exhilarating ride along the Atlantic swell.
For those seeking a quieter retreat, the tranquil beauty of Kynance Cove awaits, with its azure waters and secluded caves, offering a haven for relaxation and exploration alike. And let’s not forget the charming fishing village of St Ives, where pristine beaches frame a picturesque harbour bustling with character.
Join us as we embark on a coastal journey through Cornwall’s best beaches, uncovering hidden treasures and cherished favourites along the way. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or simply craving a day by the sea, Cornwall’s coastline promises an unforgettable experience for all. So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure – the beach awaits!
Trevaunance Cove, St. Agnes
Nestled amidst the rugged cliffs of St Agnes on the north coast of Cornwall lies the idyllic Trevaunance Cove, a hidden gem awaiting discovery. This picturesque beach, with its golden sands and azure waters, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by towering cliffs adorned with vibrant wildflowers, it’s a haven for both beachcombers and adventure seekers alike.
Trevaunance Cove is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting wave riders from near and far to test their skills on the rolling Atlantic swells. Beginners can take advantage of the local surf school, while experienced surfers can catch some of the best waves Cornwall has to offer.
Beyond the surf, the cove is flanked by charming cafes and traditional Cornish pubs, perfect for refueling after a day of exploration. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, riding the waves, or simply strolling along the shoreline, Trevaunance Cove promises an unforgettable experience amidst the natural beauty of St Agnes.
Praa Sands Beach
Cornwall’s Praa Sands Beach is a little on the small side. For some, this would make it not worth visiting. It is our opinion, however, that Praa Sands Beach’s size – or lack thereof – is its greatest charm. Because the beach is so small, most people assume they’ll have a hard time finding a spot to themselves and so don’t bother visiting the beach. With most people making the same assumption, the beach lies largely empty, even during the summer months. This means you’ll have its golden sands almost entirely to yourself and can enjoy your sunbathing and swimming in total serenity.
The waters at Praa Sands Beach are a lot calmer than they are in other parts of Cornwall. This makes it one of the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall to learn how to swim or surf. It is also not uncommon to see scuba divers at the beach, with some more experienced divers even offering lessons to holidaymakers!
Kynance Cove
Cornwall may have a little bit of trouble competing with Devon when it comes to the size of its beaches. However, it can more than hold its own in the realm of scenery. Exhibit A: Kynance Cove. Kynance Cove is one of the UK’s most photographed beaches. Its shining waters are framed by rocks and caves that look as though they were carefully placed into position one by one.
Although it doesn’t offer much in the way of sunbathing spots, the sand it does have is of the most magnificent white and reflects the light of the sun to create a splendid visual effect. Kynance Cove isn’t as central as many of the other beaches on this list. It’s about half an hour removed from the closest town. This is a pain in the neck, sure, but the journey is more than worth the wondrous sights that await you when you arrive.
Perranporth Beach
Cornwall is littered with quaint seaside villages. Perranporth is not one of them. While it does rest on the sea, offering spectacular views of the ocean, it is markedly more lively than many of the other towns in Cornwall. With cafes, nightclubs, and pubs aplenty, Perranporth will give a party to anybody looking for one.
If you find yourself waking up with a hangover during your time in the village, there’s no better way to nurse yourself back to health than by a trip to the village beach. Perranporth Beach boasts two miles of coastline to welcome the cool ocean air. During the summer, it provides ample sunbathing space to accommodate the many holidaymakers who visit its shore.
One of Cornwall’s most popular beaches, Perranporth Beach can get a little crowded in peak periods. However, it features two designated swimming areas, so you won’t have to worry about overcrowding when you go for a swim or a surf.
Harlyn Bay
If you’re inclined towards watersports, Cornwall’s Harlyn Bay should be high on your list of beaches to visit. It’s waters provide the perfect environment for surfing, kayaking, and similar activities. Keep in mind that the waves can get pretty powerful at certain times, so you should stay close to the shore when swimming.
Harlyn Bay’s lengthy shoreline leads into hills that frame the beach. This makes it perfect for a hike, especially if you want to bring your pooch along. If you’d rather relax and take in the sun, the thick sand will allow you to lie back on a beach towel with no need for a sunbed.
Godrevy Beach
Ending this list of the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall is the gritty but beautiful Godrevy Beach is the place to go. This is one of the most exposed beaches in the UK, so it takes a bit of a battering from the Atlantic winds. This makes it a great spot for surfing and kayaking. It can also make for a nice walk on a winter’s day.
During the summer months, Godrevy Beach is just as warm and as relaxing as any other beach in Cornwall. It boasts ample sunbathing space and its waters become calm enough for long afternoos of swimming in the sea. Its three-mile shoreline ensures there is plenty of room for everybody who visits. Meanwhile, a nearby coffee shop makes a delicious cappuccino that’s a great way to top off your journey!
