Beautiful Beaches in Cornwall

 
A total of 158 miles of Cornwall’s coastline has been designated as Heritage Coast, recognising its natural beauty and importance. No matter where you are in the heart of the county, you’re never more than 20 miles from the sea. It’s entirely possible to enjoy the wild northern shores in the morning and be relaxing on a sheltered southern beach by the afternoon!

North or south?

Cornwall, a peninsula at the southwestern tip of England, is bordered by the Celtic Sea to the north and west—part of the mighty Atlantic Ocean—and by the English Channel to the south. The powerful Atlantic swells on the north coast are a magnet for surfers, with iconic spots like Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay securing Cornwall’s place on the global surf map. The rugged coastline is strikingly beautiful, featuring sweeping sandy beaches and picturesque harbours.

Head southwest towards the Penzance peninsula and around to the Lizard, and you’ll discover secluded coves and hidden inlets. It’s easy to picture the scenes of old shipwrecks or imagine smugglers slipping ashore under cover of darkness. Scattered across the landscape are the remains of engine houses—reminders that this is true Poldark country.

In contrast, the south coast offers calmer waters and is a haven for sailing enthusiasts. Summer regattas are a regular feature in towns like Falmouth and Fowey. Here, gentle rivers and winding creeks weave through the countryside, often providing inspiration for writers and appearing in classic Cornish literature.

Whether you like summer bathing, year round surfing or a crisp winter stroll, beach life has a lot to offer and in Cornwall there are plenty of them to choose from! In fact there are so many outstanding beaches in Cornwall that it is often difficult to pick a favourite.

Depending on your need for surfing, dog walking, child friendliness or accessibility, you may have an entirely different choice.

Some beaches have gained awards. Blue Flag status is internationally recognised and beaches and marinas in the British Isles have to been judged as worthy against strict criteria. These include:

• Environmental Education and Information
• Water Quality
• Environmental Management
• Safety and Services

Once given, the beach or marina has to continue to submit data and maintain the high standard or risk losing its Blue Flag. Equally Seaside Awards recognise beaches for their water quality, good management, safety, and services.

Stay safe
If you’re planning a visit to any of these, or other beaches, it’s advisable to check local information for any updates or specific guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It is worth checking tide times before heading out and surf reports can be viewed at magicseaweed.com.

You can also look up which beaches provide lifeguards as many Cornwall beaches are supervised during peak season.

Beach Access & Responsibility
Many of Cornwall’s beaches are cared for by the National Trust, with free parking available for members. You’ll also find parking at many beach locations, making them more accessible for everyone.

Above all, let’s do our bit to keep our beaches clean – please use litter and dog bins where provided, or take your rubbish home with you. Let’s protect these beautiful places, not just for ourselves, but for the amazing wildlife that calls them home.