There are so many stunning beaches in Cornwall, and with the North Coast of Cornwall being home to such a variety, we’ve featured our favourites and what makes them special. If you’re staying in one of our Newquay holiday cottages, these are all within easy reach. Here are our sandy suggestions: 

Trevaunance Cove, St Agnes

Why we love it: This sheltered cove is still a working beach and home to many traditional fishing boats landing their catch of the day. It’s also a popular surfing spot, and a great place to watch some of the talented local surfers.

Perfect for: Feeling a part of proper Cornish village life.

Penhale Sands, Perranporth

Why we love it: The lesser known, and definitely less crowded, neighbour of Perranporth, Penhale Sands is a huge expanse of sand backed by dramatic sand dunes. Despite being next to a holiday park, it never feels crowded even in the height of summer.

Perfect for: Sand-castle building, swimming, surfing and bodyboarding.

Porth Joke, Newquay

Why we love it: Hidden away down several winding lanes, Porth Joke is an unspoilt and relatively quiet beach in Cornwall nestling in a shallow valley. Deeper than it is wide, there’s plenty of sand even at high tide.

Perfect for: Escaping the crowds without having to go far.

Crantock, Newquay

Why we love it: This gorgeous National Trust owned beach has so much on offer we don’t know where to start. Relatively sheltered with lifeguard cover in the summer, it’s a great spot for water sports, including stand up paddle-boarding along the Gannel. Dogs are welcome all year round.

Perfect for: Running up and down the huge sand dunes with the kids and the dog.

Whipsiderry, Newquay

Why we love it: Even though it’s only a few miles out of Newquay, you can often find yourself alone on Whipsiderry beach, thanks to the steep steps to get there and because it is almost completely hidden at high tide. Low tide reveals a multitude of rock pools, and some impressive caves and caverns to explore.

Perfect for: Discovering hidden treasures.

Watergate Bay, Newquay

Why we love it: This huge beach is always bustling without feeling busy. There are plenty of facilities right on the beach making it great for entertaining the whole family. And if you ever tire of the expanse of golden sand, one of the best things about Watergate Bay is the abundance of tasty food. The Beach Hut overlooks the beach, or try one of James Strawbridge’s Posh Pasties from the Venus Cafe (Lamb and Mint with harissa mayonnaise is our favourite!).

Perfect for: An entire day at the beach

Porthcothan Bay

Why we love it: This hidden cove nestles between lush sand dunes smack bang in between Newquay and Padstow. This section of the South West Coast Path is particularly stunning, and the impressive rock formations at the Bedruthan Steps are just a short cliff top walk away. At high tide it is wonderfully sheltered, making it great for families and swimming.

Perfect for: Exploring the dramatic coastline

Treyarnon Bay

Why we love it: This magnificent bay is known for it’s golden sands and turquoise waters. There are plenty of rock pools teeming with life to keep curious minds occupied for hours.

Perfect for: Swimming in the natural, tidal pool.

Harbour Cove and Hawkers Cove, Padstow

Why we love it: This sheltered, wide, dog-friendly beach has glorious views over the Camel Estuary. At low tide you can walk all the way to Hawkers Cove, a tiny beach leading to a slipway, a row of coastguard cottages and the old lifeboat house, which was home to the original Padstow lifeboat from the 1820 until 1967.

Perfect for: Discovering hidden coves

Rock

Why we love it: Rock is truly a beach to sit back and take in the surroundings. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is home to clear waters and many species of wading birds. You can also take in the hypnotic zig-zagging of the yachts and sailboats along the estuary, and who knows, you might even spot a celebrity or a royal!

Perfect for: Watching the world go by.

Where to find them:

For more ideas on where to visit, check out our blog on Sandy beaches in West Cornwall >

Tags: Newquay | Padstow | Rock | St Agnes |