10 of the Best Beaches in Cornwall

Fancy discovering the very best Cornish beaches on your camping holiday? We pick out the jewels in Cornwall’s coastal crown.

Whether it’s a sweltering heat wave or a mild British summer, the beaches of Cornwall are generally the place to go for the best of the UK’s weather. Every year campsites in Cornwall are awash with happy campers who are looking for seaside fun and perhaps the odd wave to catch on their surfboard. And few have visited the Cornish coast as many times as the Cool Camping team. Put simply, we love camping in Cornwall. Whether it’s hiding away in the wilds of Bodmin Moor or pitching our tent right beside the sea. And just as the campsites vary – big or small, quiet or busy, rustic or commercial – the beaches vary to, from vast expanses of sand with surfer-friendly waves, to tiny coves and hidden swimming spots. Here are just ten of our very favourites…

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Porth Joke Beach, Newquay

For those that live locally, this beach is known as Polly Joke, and it’s a stretch of shore that is relatively small and secluded. It’s wedged in a deep cove, and the dainty nature of the whole beach just enhances its attractiveness. Despite the size, you’ll still be able to enjoy a lot of exploring through the caves and rock-pools. Combine those aspects, with the luscious sand and overall relaxing vibe of the place, and you have yourself a truly excellent beach.

Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth

This is one of those beaches that you’d typically associate with a country in the Mediterranean, not the coast of England. Why? Because it has a stunning, curved stretch of golden sand, and a clear blue sea that screams – ‘Come for a swim!’. Visitors have access to a prestigious little café and, if you wanted to do a spot of shopping, then Falmouth town centre is only a short walk away.

Porthminister Beach, St Ives

Porthminister Beach is admittedly one that gets very busy (sometimes too busy) but it’s all for a good reason. Porthminister’s beautiful section of golden sand provides a perfect place to relax, and absorb the sun’s rays while viewing the Godrevy Lighthouse. With the presence of palm trees (yes, real palm trees) and the fresh crashing waves of the ocean, you’ll truly be able to feel like you’re on holiday here. There’s a small bar to get some tasty juices and smoothies, too, while its Blue Flag status highlights its class.

Maenporth Beach, Falmouth

First of all, Maenporth Beach is surrounded by greenery. So, if you want a sense of privacy, combined with original English countryside and clear waters, then this is a great option. For the most part, the sea is rather shallow, which not only means it’s family-friendly, but it also offers a good opportunity to explore rock-pools. Plus, it’s been said that when the water is at its lowest, you can spot the ship wreck of Ben Asdale (we’ve never actually seen it ourselves).

Polzeath Beach, Polzeath

If you’re a surfing fanatic (or even if you’re considering giving it a try), then you’ll be right at home on Polzeath Beach. It’s easy to get to and the waves are long, which provides superb conditions for surfing. The small beach doesn’t just attract dozens of surfers each year just for it’s waters, though. The beach also has a fantastic amount of open space when the tide is out and there are plenty of good pubs, shops and restaurants nearby.

Rock Beach, Padstow

Alternatively known as Brea Beach, this long stretch of white sand is similar to that you’d find in the Caribbean – although, at this beach, you’ll also find a visually-pleasing addition of grassy dunes that provide an easier route for sea-side strolls. Other than the clear blue waters, you’ll also have tremendous views across Padstow Bay and the Camel Estuary while you’re sunbathing. Just around the corner nearby Daymer Bay Beach is also a treat.

Kynance Cove, Lizard

Kynance Cove is one of the most famous beaches throughout England, and people have been heading here for centuries to admire the work of Mother Nature. Coastal erosion has produced a multitude of red and green serpentine rocks, which gleam when wet like a form of theatrical art. In addition, there are rock-pools and caves for you to have a search around, as well as a tiny little section of golden sand. Bring a little net to make the most of it.

Whitsand Bay, Torpoint

Although this is a stunning beach that extends for roughly three miles, the cliffs, which stand proudly and beautifully behind the sand, often hide it. As a result, Whitsand Bay is widely considered a bit of a hidden treasure. It’s a superb destination for sunbathing, surfing or even going on a morning jog if you can handle the softness of the sand and it is dog-friendly all year round. Make sure you check the tide tables, though. When the tide is in, there’s no sand to be seen! Fear not though, if you arrive at high tide, there’s a couple of great cafés where you can get a decent cuppa.

Readymoney Cove, Fowey

Yes, this beach may be on the smaller side, but that only adds to the aesthetics. The protruding cliffs in the backdrop, and the site of the Fowey medieval town to one side make this beach a fabulous spot to spend the day. Readymoney Cove is very secluded, so is ideal if you want to relax in peace by the sea rather than be a part of the hustle and bustle that you get with larger beaches.

Crantock Beach, Newquay

There’s an elegant stretch of golden sand at Crantock Beach, as well as marram-covered sand dunes that children love playing in. It’s extremely clean and well-maintained, so if you’re looking for a good family beach, you can’t go wrong. For extra entertainment, you can also hire surfboards or canoes at the beach shack by the beach entrance. Oh, and did we mention that dolphins are occasionally spotted here too?

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