Top Beaches in Cornwall: Your Complete Guide

Published 13 June 2025

Written by Meaghan Barron-Cutts

Cornwall is home to some of the most spectacular coastline in the UK, long golden beaches perfect for surfing, hidden coves for quiet escapes, and dramatic viewpoints carved into wild Atlantic cliffs. This guide brings together the top beaches in Cornwall, including the very best options near Bedruthan Hotel, along with local tips, accessibility information, tide guidance and travel times so you can plan every beach day with ease.

Top Bedruthan Picks: Beaches in Cornwall

These are the most convenient beaches for your stay, ideal for spontaneous sea dips, family outings, sunset walks and surfing lessons.

1. Watergate Bay

Just around the corner from Bedruthan, Watergate Bay is a beloved surf haven that draws both locals and visitors to its sweeping golden sands, where rolling waves create perfect peaks for every skill level.

Stretch out on the expansive shoreline with plenty of space to claim your perfect spot, all while soaking in breathtaking views framed by lush green cliffs and pristine turquoise waters.

Best for: Surfing, long walks, wide open sands at low tide, family beach days, and excellent water sports.

Access: Easy access with large car parks at both ends of the beach, clear paths down to the sand, seasonal lifeguards, toilets, cafés, and surf hire/schools available on-site.

Local tip: Visit around low tide when the beach stretches out for nearly two miles, perfect for walking or photography. For calmer moments, head to the northern end, where it’s quieter even in summer.

Amenities: Large car park, Lifeguarded, Easy access, Dog friendly, Surf school, Toilets and showers

Where to Feast

The Beach Hut (4.1★)

Savour seasonal dishes on the terrace while waves crash just metres away. This relaxed beachfront gem serves everything from hearty breakfasts to candlelit dinners, with versatile plant-based options alongside classic favourites.

Wax (4.2★)

Dive into beachfront dining where specialty cocktails meet live music every week. The seasonal menu pairs perfectly with pub games and that infectious seaside atmosphere that keeps you lingering long after sunset.

The Hangout (4.9★)

Perched on the hillside, this local favourite delivers mouth-watering breakfasts and artisan coffees with panoramic views sweeping across Watergate Bay to the rolling countryside beyond. Pure morning bliss.

Where to Roam

Watergate Bay - Mawgan Porth | 7.6km | Moderate

Watergate Bay - Newquay | 5.6km | Easy

2. Kynance Cove

Step into paradise at this otherworldly beach at Kynance Cove, where towering rock stacks rise like ancient monuments from the crystalline depths.

The BBC crowned it "one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the South West' – one glimpse of this dramatic coastline will show you why.

Best for: Dramatic scenery, turquoise water, sheltered swimming on calm days, photography, and memorable coastal walks.

Access: Parking at the National Trust car park (10–15 minutes’ walk to the beach). The main route includes steep, uneven paths and steps; access can be challenging at high tide when parts of the beach disappear.

Local tip: Arrive early or visit late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the cove at its most peaceful. Check tide times, at low tide the hidden caves and islands become accessible, and the colours are at their most striking.

Amenities: Cafes/restaurants, Public toilets, Car park, Accessibility options, Pushchair-friendly route

Where to Feast

Kynance Cove Café (4.5★)

Tucked into the clifftop with jaw-dropping views over the cove, this perfectly positioned cafe rewards coastal walkers with fresh sandwiches, hearty salads and warming comfort food that tastes even better with that million-dollar backdrop.

Ellie's Soul Kitchen (4.9★)

Hidden away in a charming off-grid caravan in Lizard village, this culinary gem fuses local Cornish ingredients with exotic Middle Eastern flavours. Each dish tells a travel story, creating unexpected combinations in the most delightful setting.

Coast Coffee Bar Bistro (4.5★)

This highly recommended favourite combines hearty pub classics with exceptional outdoor seating where friendly staff deliver quick service and incredible flavours. The perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the coast.

Where to Roam

The Lizard Coastal Walk | 11 km | Challenging

Kynance - Lizard Village | 4.7 km | Easy

3. Perranporth Beach

Perranporth is a vibrant beach that captivates all kinds of visitors, offering expansive stretches of pristine sand ideal for wave riding and seaside activities.

Dive into the iconic sea pool for a refreshing swim, then, as the tide retreats, discover the hidden pathway to neighbouring Penhale Sands – it's like having two beaches in one spectacular location.

Best for: Long, open sands ideal for walking, surfing, beach sports, and family days out. Great for dog-friendly beach time and spectacular sunsets.

Access: Easy, level access from the village with large car parks, toilets, cafés, and surf hire nearby. Lifeguarded in peak season and suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs along the main stretch.

Local tip: Head towards the far northern end for quieter spaces, especially in summer. At low tide, walk across the vast beach to explore the sand dunes and rock formations, or enjoy a drink at The Watering Hole, the iconic bar set directly on the sand.

Amenities: Lifeguarded, Public toilets, Car park, Easy access, Sand chairs easily accessible for hire

Where to Feast

No. 4 Breakfast & Bistro (4.8★)

Start your day right with sweet and savoury breakfasts that cater to every craving, including divine vegan creations. Come evening, their Cornish-inspired dinner menu transforms local ingredients into culinary magic.

The Summer House (4.0★)

This female-led, family-owned gem captures the heart of Perranporth Beach with its perfect blend of laid-back surf vibes and elevated dining. Their thoughtfully crafted menu celebrates food from land, from the sea and also plant-based diners in a setting that is stylish and intimate.

The Watering Hole (3.8★)

Experience the UK's only bar literally on the beach, where surfers paddle straight from the waves to their tables with sand still between their toes. This legendary local hotspot serves up classic comfort food alongside live music events, creating unforgettable nights under the stars with the sound of crashing waves as your soundtrack.

Where to Roam

Perranporth - St Agnes | 5.6 km | Easy

Perranporth - Crantock | 11.9 km | Moderate

4. Crantock Beach

Just moments from bustling Newquay lies Crantock Beach, a National Trust treasure where golden sands stretch beneath natural dunes and wildlife-rich grasslands.

At the northern edge, the River Gannel flows gently into the sea, providing calmer waters and a perfect spot for families, swimmers and paddleboarders, whilst the open waters invite surfers and kayakers to play.

With its expansive shoreline backed by the scenic Rushy Green, Crantock offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility – all the excitement of Cornwall's coast with space to breathe and explore.

Best for: Sheltered swimming, golden dunes, paddleboarding on the Gannel estuary, family days out, and peaceful beach walks away from central Newquay.

Access: Parking at the National Trust car park with a short walk over the dunes to the sand. Facilities include seasonal lifeguards and nearby toilets; access is sandy and not fully suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Local tip: Explore the Gannel estuary at mid-to-high tide, perfect for paddleboarding and calmer water activities. Arrive early on summer days, as the car park fills quickly when conditions are good. Find a picture-perfect moment at Polly Joke Headland as the poppies put on a show during May - June each year.

Amenities: Parking, Lifeguarded, Toilets, Dog friendly (specific areas dedicated to those with dogs)

Where to Feast

The Offbeat Bar & Kitchen (5.0★ )

Experience the warmth of local hospitality in beautiful Crantock, where stunning coastal views meet tasty and casual dining. An inclusive menu featuring British classics plus extensive vegan and veggie options. Nestled in the heart of town yet perfectly positioned to showcase breathtaking beach views.

C-Bay Bar & Bistro (4.5★)

Unparalleled views over Crantock Bay. Breakfasts, home-baked cakes and fresh coffee by day; seasonal dishes with South American influences for lunch and dinner. Relaxed dining with a spectacular coastal backdrop. Dine in relaxed comfort as endless blues and greens create the perfect backdrop for this unmissable combination of flavours.

Jam Jar Kitchen (4.6★)

Homemade bakes, smoothies and sandwiches using local Cornish produce by day. Pizzeria by evening with authentic wood-fired pizzas, wines, cocktails and local beers on the terrace. Laid-back comfort meets vibrant energy.

Where to Roam

Crantock and The Gannel Circular Coastal Walk | 7.2km | Easy/Moderate

Crantock – Polly Joke | 2.4 km | Easy

5. Chapel Porth

Prepare for one of Cornwall's most breathtaking reveals as Chapel Porth, a hidden National Trust gem, unveils itself at the end of a dramatic valley descent between St Agnes and Porthtowan.

This surfers' paradise delivers great waves and endless exploration – from exhilarating coastal walks along rugged clifftops to discovering secret caves and tidal pools that emerge when the sea retreats.

Please note that the ocean currents here can be strong. Always take care when swimming/surfing. Always swim between the lifeguard flags and during their duty hours.

Best for: Wild, dramatic scenery, excellent surfing conditions, cliff walks, and exploring caves and rock formations at low tide. A favourite for photographers and nature lovers.

Access: National Trust car park right beside the beach with a short walk to the sand. Lifeguarded in summer. The beach is mostly covered at high tide, so timing matters. Facilities include toilets and a seasonal café famous for its “hedgehog” ice cream.

Local tip: Visit at low tide to see the striking caves and colourful mineral-rich cliffs, some of the best geology on the North Cornwall coast. Combine your trip with the iconic clifftop walk to Wheal Coates for unforgettable views.

Amenities: Car park, Toilets, Seasonal lifeguards, Seasonal dog restriction

Where to Feast

Chapel Porth Café (4.4★ )

Perched right on the golden sands, this beachfront restaurant serves everything from soul-warming English breakfasts, cakes and ice creams. Grab your perfect brew and settle in for some ultimate surf watching as wave riders carve through crystal waters while you bask in the sun.

Where to Roam

Porthtowan - Chapel Porth | 7.5km | Moderate

Chapel Porth - Trevaunance Cove | 10 km | Moderate

Cornwall’s Beaches FAQ

How safe is swimming on Cornwall’s beaches?

Swimming is generally safe on lifeguarded beaches during the summer season, especially when you stay between the red and yellow flags. Some beaches have strong rip currents, so always follow RNLI guidance and check local tide times before entering the water.

What is the water quality like in Cornwall?

Cornwall is known for excellent water quality, with many beaches monitored throughout the year. Several beaches hold Blue Flag status, recognising high water standards, cleanliness, and environmental management.

Are there Blue Flag beaches nearby?

Yes. Cornwall has multiple Blue Flag beaches each year, including popular choices around Newquay and St Ives. These beaches offer high-quality water, good facilities, and seasonal lifeguards, ideal for families.

What’s the typical water temperature in Cornwall?

Sea temperatures range from around 9–11°C in winter to 15–18°C in late summer (August–September being the warmest). Many visitors choose wetsuits for comfort outside peak summer months.

Are there surf schools available?

Absolutely. Cornwall is one of the UK’s best surfing destinations, with professional surf schools at beaches such as Watergate Bay, Fistral, Crantock, Perranporth, and Mawgan Porth. Lessons are available for beginners through to advanced surfers.

How many beaches are there in Cornwall?

Cornwall has over 300 beaches, ranging from famous long surfing bays to tiny hidden coves only accessible at low tide. This diversity makes the county ideal for exploring, no matter your interests.

Which beach is best if we only have time for one?

It depends on your plans. For dramatic scenery, choose Kynance Cove. For surfing and watersports, head to Watergate Bay or Fistral. For family-friendly calm water and white sand, try Porthcurno or Mawgan Porth.

Plan Your Coastal Escape

After a sun-soaked day discovering Cornwall's dramatic coastline, indulge in the perfect evening ritual – reserve your table at Ogo, where exceptional cuisine awaits to reward your adventures.

As golden hour approaches, wander down to the breathtaking Mawgan Porth Beach, our personal favourite, where the sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues above the rolling waves.

Then drift back to sink into the luxurious embrace of your Bedruthan bed, where coastal dreams and ocean breezes will carry you into the most restful sleep.

The day's exploration becomes evening's indulgence, and every moment feels like the Cornwall escape you've been craving.

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