Back to top

Best Beaches in Cornwall

We’ve put together our pick of the best beaches in Cornwall for your next trip to the coast.

04/03/23

Cornwall’s coast is home to some of the UK’s most spectacular beaches. Famous for their clear sapphire waters and untouched natural beauty, there’s nothing we love more than a sunny day spent on a Cornish beach.

On the north coast, you’ll find stretching golden sands and rocky cliffs carved by wild waves. For calmer waters, head to the south coast and its shimmering bays, peaceful inlets and secluded coves. Whichever style of beach day you’re looking for, we’ve put together our pick of the best beaches in Cornwall for your next trip to the coast.

Carbis Bay Beach

Tucked away from the bustling harbour town of neighbouring St Ives, the white sand and crystal clear water at Carbis Bay Beach is a welcome haven. The sheltered bay is a great choice for swimmers who prefer still waters. 

To reach the beach, we recommend hopping on the train at St Erth to enjoy incredible views from the St Ives Bay line. Alternatively, you can follow the coast path from St Ives for a beautiful 25-minute walk. 

Gwithian Towans

On Cornwall’s north coast, Gwithian Towans is a long sandy beach that seems to go on for miles. It’s characterised by its vast sand dunes, or ‘towans’ in Cornish, and its many rockpools that reveal themselves at low tide.

From the top of the dunes, you can enjoy views across the bay to St Ives Harbour in the west and views of Godrevy Lighthouse to the east. It’s also a beautiful spot to watch a slow Cornish sunset over the open sea.

Gwynver Beach

A quiet stretch of sand near Land’s End, Gwynver Beach is a peaceful spot away from the crowds. It’s reached by following a steep path through the sand dunes, which is well worth the slightly challenging journey.

 

From Gwynver, you can follow the South West Coast Path all the way towards Cape Cornwall. The walk takes around 2 hours and, on clear days, offers views all the way to the Isles of Scilly. 

Harlyn Bay 

Harlyn Bay, just west of Padstow, is a great spot for families. Its spacious golden sands are dog friendly and there are plenty of tide pools to explore. 

The moon-shaped bay is just sheltered enough to make it the perfect spot for a beachside picnic. Or, if you’re looking for a good walk, you can follow the coast path to Mother Ivey’s Bay and Trevose Head. 

Fistral Beach 

Framed by sand dunes and rocks, this stretch of golden beach in Newquay is considered the home of British surfing. Its famous waves host the UK’s biggest surf competitions and if you’d like to have a go at surfing yourself, there are plenty of places to hire a board or book a lesson.  

The beach is easily accessible, family-friendly and has a selection of surfside shops and eateries nearby. Its soft sand is a great place to set up in the sun for the day and watch the surfers, before toasting the sunset with a drink in hand at Fistral Beach Bar.

Holywell Bay Beach

Further along the coast from Fistral, you’ll find Holywell Bay, a huge golden beach named after an ancient natural spring that's believed to have healing powers. At low tide, the holy well can be found in a cave at the north end of the beach – but take care and be mindful of changing tides.

The beautiful beach is surrounded by stretching sand dunes, ideal for a wander with the dog or to relax and watch the sunset over the iconic view of Gull Rock.

Gyllyngvase Beach

One of our personal favourites, Gyllyngvase Beach is just down the road from our creative studios and a short walk away from our Falmouth shop. Known as Gylly by the locals, it’s nice and sheltered, making it a popular swimming spot with calm, clear waters. 

There’s a café on the beach where you can pick up hot drinks, ice cream and snacks, or if you’re in the mood for a full meal, the restaurant offers beautiful views across to Pendennis Point and Castle. 

Porthcurno Beach

Globally renowned for its beauty, Porthcurno is a secluded paradise with soft sand and glistening water that feels almost Mediterranean.

You’ll find it in West Cornwall, tucked below granite cliffs and hidden at the end of a winding coast path. It has amazing views out to the Atlantic Ocean where dolphins are sometimes spotted on the horizon. Sheltered by the cliffs, it’s a beautiful spot to soak up some sun and enjoy a good book.

Kynance Cove

On the Lizard Peninsula, Kynance Cove is one of Cornwall’s most beautiful beaches. The white sand is dotted with caves, sea stacks and small islands, all of which are surrounded by turquoise water. 

At low tide, you can explore the caves and rock pools, but care should be taken to keep an eye on the tide. Relax on the beach or take a walk along the coast to Lizard Point where you can enjoy incredible views out to sea. The paths down to Kynance can be tricky, so this beach will suit those comfortable on steeper terrain. 

Lantic Bay

On the south coast, between Fowey and Polperro, you’ll find Lantic Bay. The beach is accessed by a 20-minute walk along the coast via a steep path, making it a more secluded spot away from the summer crowds.

Its remote setting means dogs are welcome all year round, but there are no amenities nearby so make sure you pack some refreshments. 

Watergate Bay

Just outside Newquay, Watergate Bay is known for its surf. Vast golden sands stretch for two miles, with grassy cliffs on one side and a near-constant Atlantic swell rolling in on the other.  


It’s also home to The Watergate Bay Hotel, which serves delicious beachside drinks and dishes from their sea-view Beach Hut. Perfect after a long walk or refreshing sea swim.