Wherever you happen to be staying in Cornwall, you’ll never be more than 16 miles from the sea, which is perhaps why this coastal county is such a favourite.

From golden sandy beaches that pack a visual punch to hidden coves where you can swim in turquoise waters, Cornwall’s coastline is full to the salty brim with great days out. The clotted cream on top? A whopping 288 miles of coastal paths ensure you can enjoy every scenic step!

Oh yes, the South West Coast Path has been calling to intrepid adventurers and chilled-out daytrippers for as long as anyone can remember, whether it’s for balmy walks by the sea or picnic spots with an unbeatable view.

Snaking its way around three sides of the county from Marsland Mouth near Bude, down to mystical Land’s End, and on to Cremyll near Torpoint and the Tamar Devon border, the Cornish section of the South West Coast Path has it all. Ready to explore Cornwall’s fantastic scenery, fascinating local heritage, incredible wildlife and superb walking? Here’s everything you need to know about the South West Coast Path…

What to see on the South West Coast Path

With dramatic castles, shimmering sea pools, and Cornwall’s famous clifftop theatre along the route, you can soak up a variety of backdrops with ease while walking the South West Coast Path.

When it comes to coastal castles, Cornwall certainly boasts an impressive roundup, with oceanside fortresses promising incredible views and rich histories. St Michael’s Mount is perhaps the easiest to recognise, with the towering castle, cobbled causeway, and pretty harbour forming one of Cornwall’s most recreated scenes. The twin forts of St Mawes and Pendennis, which overlook the Carrick Roads near Falmouth, are always worth a visit, with fascinating displays delving into their respective histories. Or, you can head to Tintagel, where striking castle remains cling to the cliffside and tell stories of fabled kings and spooky hauntings.

While walking the South West Coast Path, you’re sure to stumble across one or two of Cornwall’s iconic engine houses, which hark back to the county’s incredible mining past. Botallack Mine, Wheal Prosper, and Levant Mine are just some of the Poldark-worthy locations that boast a phenomenal setting and poignant local history to boot.

Offering a wilder but no less intriguing type of landmark, Cornwall is home to a jaw-dropping array of rock formations that can’t help but draw the eye. From filming location backdrops to (almost) unbelievable local tales, these Cornish stones are rock stars in their own right. Towering above Pedn Vounder Beach in West Cornwall, Logan Rock is dramatic in every sense of the word. Intertwined with local legend, a popular story tells of a group of sailors who once pushed the rock off its perch, before having to haul it back up the cliff to its rightful place. Holywell Bay is home to two iconic rocks out to sea, which can be spotted throughout Poldark, while the famous Song of the Sea Cave at Nanjizal is a rather magical spot to explore too.

Culture and history buffs will love places like the Minack Theatre and Charlestown’s beautiful harbour. Meanwhile, Cornwall’s many lighthouses, which cling to the county’s cliffs and islands and keep watch over the shores and seas, will be high on the agenda too.

From seals and sharks to mermaids, people have spotted all sorts from the South West Coast Path over the years. Seals are one of the more common sightings, but dolphins, whales, and basking sharks are always a possibility, especially during the spring and summer months. If you’re looking for a break from walking the coast path, why not cruise around it? Cornwall offers many excellent accredited boat trips and sea safaris, providing the perfect opportunity to see a different side of the coastline – while keeping an eager eye out for wildlife, of course!

What to do on the South West Coast Path

From epic, day-long walks that take you on a magical tour of Cornwall’s coastline to quick dips in the sea after breakfast, there is much to see and do along the Cornish stretch of the South West Coast Path.

With such a varied mix of beautiful coastal paths to choose from, walking the South West Coast Path is a firm favourite for very good reason. Whether you want to tackle a full day’s hike or prefer an hour or two’s gentle stroll, the path is there for the taking. And aside from a car parking fee in some places, it’s all free! 

You don’t need any expensive specialist equipment - just a good pair of shoes, water, and treats! What’s more, it’s well signposted along the way; though we do recommend bringing a map if you’re planning on doing a circular route or traversing inland. Walking boots are great for the more uneven sections, but many excellent routes are wheel-friendly, such as the beautiful stretch between Marazion and Penzance. 

We love a blustery winter’s walk that well and truly blows the cobwebs away as much as a sun-soaked stroll on a summer’s day – just make sure to pack for the season, whether that’s waterproofs, sun cream, or both! Our complete guide to walking in Cornwall has everything you need to know for a memorable trek along Cornwall’s stunning coast.

North Cornwall promises drama aplenty alongside its epic walks, from the beach-laden charms of Newquay to the seaside delights of Bude and Port Isaac. In West Cornwall, a seemingly endless supply of coastal excursions await, from the mesmerising coastline around Mousehole, which has inspired many a creative work, to St Ives and the famously breathtaking cliffs and hidden coves that surround it. South Cornwall is home to some of the longest beaches in the county, as well as some beautiful river walks that wind their way up from the coastline into ancient woodlands, giving you plenty of variety when touring the coast. Or you can head to the Lizard Point to enjoy the most southerly views in the country.

While out walking the South West Coast Path, you’re sure to come across many beautiful beaches, from secluded coves you have all to yourself to great stretches of sand that beckon for beach games galore. With so many incredible beaches to choose from, it’s almost impossible to pick a favourite (we could only manage to narrow it down to a top 20).

Head to Fistral Beach, Summerleaze Beach, or Porthmeor Beach for a spot of surfing, Falmouth or St Ives for a giddy mix of watersports and sea swimming, and the Lizard Peninsula or West Penwith for some of the wildest and most spectacular beaches around. Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula is practically a household name!

Where to eat on the South West Coast Path

Whether you’re after a slap-up breakfast before hitting the coast path, a piping hot brew after riding the waves, or a cocktail as you watch the sun disappear below the horizon, Cornwall’s coastline has just the place.

For a beach café that serves up epic views alongside your coffee and cake, head to Kynance Cove Café or Poldhu Beach Café on the Lizard, SeaSpray on Fistral Beach in Newquay, or Gylly Beach Café on Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth. With excellent menus and uninterrupted views, these cafés are the perfect place to sit back and watch the world and waves roll by. For the ultimate Cornish experience, pair your walk along the coast path with a cream tea – just remember to go jam first!

Boasting sea views and top-notch eating aplenty, Cornwall is home to many excellent eateries by the water’s edge. In Newquay, enjoy a mix of Michelin recommended restaurants and beachfront bistros serving up the freshest of fare, while along the bustling seafront of St Ives, you can savour Mediterranean vibes and idyllic scenes to boot! Having the coast on the doorstep, you can expect a menu packed with locally caught seafood alongside produce from nearby farms and kitchen gardens.

Whether the sun is shining and you’re on the hunt for a sun-trap beer garden or you’re returning from a blustery walk in search of a roaring fire and carvery, Cornwall’s coastal pubs are the perfect end to any walk. Head to the UK’s only bar on a beach for a pint with the dog at your feet and sand between your toes, The Ship Inn for harbourside views across Mousehole and vibrant festivities at Christmas, or The Ship Inn in Porthleven for, well, more harbourside views!

Of course, one of the best things to eat while traversing the winding trails around the South West Coast Path is a Cornish pasty! Full of flavour, wonderfully portable, and exceptionally Cornish, a pasty is a picnic you can carry in your pocket, ready to be enjoyed on a rugged clifftop overlooking azure waters and white sandy beaches.

Excited to explore the South West Coast Path? Our beautiful holiday cottages are all across Cornwall, whether you’re looking for sea views to inspire your wanderings or a bubbling hot tub to soothe wary feet upon your return.

Tags: Newquay | North Cornwall | Penzance | Porthleven | Sennen | The Lizard | Walking | Porthleven |