Best beaches in Cornwall

Cornwall's 300-mile coastline offers some of Britain's most spectacular beaches, from the wild surf breaks of the north coast to the sheltered turquoise coves of the south. Whether you're seeking world-class waves, family-friendly swimming, or hidden gems accessible only by coastal path, Cornwall's diverse beaches provide something for every traveler, with a mild Gulf Stream climate that extends the season well beyond typical British destinations.

Pedn Vounder Beach

A dramatic clifftop hideaway where clothing-optional sunbathing meets some of Cornwall's most spectacular coastal scenery.

Crantock Beach

Ferry-accessible National Trust paradise with pristine sand and stunning sunsets

Carbis Bay Beach

Blue Flag golden sands with subtropical gardens and family-friendly calm waters.

Kynance Cove

Cornwall's most photographed beach showcasing serpentine rock formations and natural arches in a geological wonderland.

Lantic Bay

A pristine National Trust crescent where dramatic headlands frame perfect family swimming conditions.

Polzeath Beach

A legendary surf playground where consistent waves meet vibrant beach culture and family-friendly atmosphere.

Porthtowan Beach

A classic north coast surf haven where miles of golden sand meet excellent waves and clifftop village charm.

Praa Sands Beach

One of Cornwall's longest beaches, offering over a mile of golden sand with surfing, family fun, and Mount's Bay views.

East Looe Beach

A convenient harbourside gem combining safe family swimming with historic fishing port atmosphere.

Holywell Bay

A dune-protected wilderness near Newquay featuring the mystical Holy Well cave spring and expansive wild beauty.

Porthpean Beach

A sheltered family sanctuary near St Austell offering calm waters and sun-soaked south-facing tranquility.

Fistral Beach

Cornwall's legendary surf capital and spiritual home of British wave culture

Summerleaze Beach

Bude's spacious mile-long main beach with unique canal meeting the sea

Hayles Beach

Secret low-tide cove offering complete seclusion beneath St Ives cliffs

Gyllyngvase Beach

Falmouth's premier beach combining urban convenience with golden sand and deep-water swimming perfection.

Sennen Cove

Mainland Britain's most westerly beach combining Atlantic drama with excellent surf and authentic fishing village charm.

Nanjizal Bay

A hidden clifftop gem near Land's End featuring the mystical Song of the Sea cave and pristine seclusion.

Porthmeor Beach

St Ives' premier surf spot overlooked by the renowned Tate gallery

Porthgwidden Beach

Tiny sheltered gem tucked between rocks in picturesque St Ives

St Ives Harbour

Working fishing port combining maritime heritage with artistic charm

Porthminster Beach

Turquoise waters and white sand creating St Ives' most beautiful bay

Crooklets Beach

Town-center convenience meets natural beauty with iconic 1930s sea pool

Widemouth Bay

Expansive surf beach offering space, tranquility, and spectacular coastal walks

Towan Beach

Central Newquay convenience with classic Cornish appeal and island backdrop

Great Western Beach

Newquay's accessible heart with golden sand and vibrant beachfront scene

Tolcarne Beach

Newquay's relaxed eastern alternative with excellent surf and dramatic cliffs

Watergate Bay Beach

Two-mile extreme sports playground with world-class dining and dramatic clifftops

St George’s Cove

Secluded shingle retreat perfect for snorkeling and peaceful contemplation

Harlyn Bay Beach

Tranquil horseshoe bay with Bronze Age heritage and gentle family waters

Trevone Bay

Family-friendly horseshoe bay with calm waters and village charm

Constantine Bay beach

Two miles of surf-perfect sand backed by dramatic rolling dunes

Porthcurno Beach

An extraordinary amphitheater of granite cliffs surrounding white sand and impossibly blue Mediterranean-rivaling waters.

Pendower Beach

A sun-trap sanctuary on the Roseland Peninsula offering expansive sand and calm waters facing Gerrans Bay.

Duckpool beach

A wild Atlantic showcase near Bude where dramatic rock sculptures meet crashing waves and untamed coastal beauty.

Perranporth Beach

Three miles of golden sand perfection offering endless space for beach activities, surfing, and clifftop village dining.