Get ready to embark on a coastal adventure through the mesmerizing landscapes of Cornwall and Devon. With its rugged cliffs, golden sands, and azure waters, these two regions boast some of the best beaches in the UK.
We’ve compiled a list of the 24 best beaches that offer a unique blend of fun, relaxation, and awe-inspiring views. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and get ready for a beach-hopping extravaganza!
Best Beaches In Cornwall And Devon
24 Best Beaches In Cornwall And Devon
Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall
Surf’s up! Fistral Beach is a surfers’ paradise, known for its consistent waves and lively atmosphere.
With surf schools, equipment rentals, and annual competitions, it’s the perfect spot for both beginners and pros.
For those seeking relaxation, the wide expanse of golden sands is ideal for sunbathing and beach games.
Watergate Bay, Newquay, Cornwall
Watergate Bay offers two miles of golden sands backed by dramatic cliffs.
This vast beach provides ample space for kite surfing, beach volleyball, and sandcastle building.
With the Watergate Bay Hotel nearby, you can indulge in a luxury beachside experience, complete with delicious dining options and a spa.
Sennen Cove, Cornwall
Sennen Cove is a picturesque beach nestled in the far west of Cornwall.
Its pristine white sands and turquoise waters make it a popular spot for sun-seekers and surfers.
The nearby village offers charming cafes and shops, while the dramatic coastal walks promise stunning views.
Porthcurno, Cornwall
Porthcurno is a true gem, featuring soft sands and crystal-clear waters.
This idyllic beach is surrounded by lush greenery and imposing granite cliffs.
Don’t miss the unique Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre carved into the cliffs, offering incredible ocean views.
Kynance Cove, Cornwall
Kynance Cove is a breathtakingly beautiful beach on the Lizard Peninsula.
With its dramatic rocky outcrops, turquoise waters, and white sand, it’s easy to see why this beach is a photographer’s dream.
Take a walk along the coastal path for awe-inspiring views, and explore the hidden caves during low tide.
Polzeath Beach, Cornwall
Polzeath Beach is a family favourite, with its gently sloping sands, rock pools, and lifeguard-patrolled waters.
With excellent surf conditions and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a fantastic spot for a beach day. Nearby, you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Carbis Bay, Cornwall
Carbis Bay is an award-winning beach with calm waters, making it perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts.
Relax on the soft sands or take a paddleboard out to explore the bay.
With the picturesque town of St Ives just a short coastal walk away, you’ll never be short of things to do.
Porthminster Beach, St Ives, Cornwall
Porthminster Beach is a golden crescent of sand with calm, clear waters.
It’s a fantastic spot for a swim or paddle, and the beach is just a short walk from St Ives‘ bustling harbour.
The Porthminster Beach Café offers delicious seafood dishes and panoramic views.
Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth, Cornwall
Gyllyngvase Beach is Falmouth’s largest sandy beach, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and fun.
With its Blue Flag status, lifeguard service, and nearby eateries, Gyllyngvase is perfect for families.
Hire a kayak, take a coastal walk, or simply enjoy the views across Falmouth Bay.
Lusty Glaze, Newquay, Cornwall
Lusty Glaze is a secluded cove boasting golden sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs.
Adventure seekers will love the range of activities, including abseiling, zip-lining, and surfing.
The on-site restaurant and beach bar offer delicious food and live music events, making Lusty Glaze a must-visit.
Bantham Beach, Devon
Bantham Beach is a large sandy beach near the picturesque village of Bantham.
With its fantastic surf, unspoiled dunes, and views of Burgh Island, this beach is a Devon favourite.
Keep an eye out for seals and dolphins that frequent the area.
Woolacombe Beach, Devon
Woolacombe Beach is a three-mile stretch of golden sands, backed by rolling dunes and surrounded by rugged cliffs.
With excellent surf and lifeguard service, this beach is perfect for families, sunbathers, and water sports enthusiasts.
The nearby village offers shops, cafes, and restaurants for a post-beach treat.
Croyde Bay, Devon
Croyde Bay is a sheltered, sandy beach with excellent surf and a lively atmosphere.
The charming village of Croyde offers cafes, pubs, and surf shops, while the surrounding area is perfect for coastal walks and exploring.
Don’t miss the nearby Baggy Point for stunning views.
Blackpool Sands, Devon
Blackpool Sands is a picturesque, crescent-shaped beach with turquoise waters and golden sands.
This Blue Flag beach offers calm waters for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
With an on-site cafe, shop, and watersports rental, Blackpool Sands caters to all beachgoers’ needs.
Salcombe Harbour Beaches, Devon
Salcombe Harbour boasts several small, sandy beaches, including South Sands, North Sands, and Mill Bay.
These beaches offer sheltered waters, perfect for families, swimmers, and sailors.
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride or explore the South West Coast Path for panoramic views.
Beer Beach, Devon
Beer Beach is a picturesque, pebble beach nestled in a sheltered bay.
The working fishing village of Beer provides a unique backdrop, with colourful boats lining the shore.
Explore the local shops, cafes, and pubs, or take a guided fishing trip for a memorable day out.
Hope Cove, Devon
Hope Cove is a charming coastal village with two sandy beaches: Inner and Outer Hope.
The sheltered waters are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, while the dramatic cliffs offer breathtaking views.
Visit the Hope & Anchor pub for delicious local seafood.
Sidmouth Beach, Devon
Sidmouth Beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, backed by the beautiful Regency town of Sidmouth.
With its colourful beach huts, calm waters, and picturesque seafront, it’s a popular spot for families and couples.
Explore the nearby Jurassic Coast for a chance to discover fossils.
Bovisand Beach, Devon
Bovisand Beach is a hidden gem, featuring golden sands and calm waters.
Located in a sheltered bay, this family-friendly beach is perfect for swimming and rock pooling.
The nearby Bovisand Lodge Holiday Park offers excellent facilities, including a café and shop.
Bigbury-on-Sea Beach, Devon
Bigbury-on-Sea is a large sandy beach with fantastic views of Burgh Island.
The beach offers excellent surf, rock pools, and a unique sea tractor service to the island during high tide.
The Venus Café serves delicious local food, making Bigbury-on-Sea an ideal day trip destination.
Wembury Beach, Devon
Wembury Beach is a popular spot for rock pooling and wildlife watching, with its rocky shore and diverse marine life.
The beach is perfect for families and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of the Great Mewstone and the surrounding coastline.
The Wembury Marine Centre provides informative displays and guided rock pool rambles.
Saunton Sands, Devon
Saunton Sands is a stunning three-mile stretch of golden sands backed by Braunton Burrows, the largest sand dune system in the UK.
With its fantastic surf and unique landscape, this beach is popular among surfers, sunbathers, and walkers.
Facilities include a beach shop, café, and surf school.
Dawlish Warren Beach, Devon
Dawlish Warren is a family-friendly beach with a Blue Flag status, featuring soft sands and shallow waters.
The beach offers amusement arcades, cafes, and a nature reserve, making it a great day out for all ages.
During the summer months, lifeguards patrol the beach, ensuring a safe environment.
Slapton Sands, Devon
Slapton Sands is a unique, three-mile-long shingle beach with a rich history.
The beach played a significant role during World War II as a training ground for the D-Day landings.
Today, Slapton Sands is a peaceful spot for beach walks, fishing, and wildlife watching, with Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve nearby.
Final Thoughts
From sun-soaked sands to surfer’s paradises, Cornwall and Devon are home to some of the most stunning beaches in the UK. With this list of the 24 best beaches, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next seaside adventure.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, fun, or breathtaking views, these coastal gems have something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Dive into the beauty of Cornwall and Devon’s beaches and make memories that will last a lifetime!
If you’re in the South West, check out our guide to the best beaches in Dorset.
Founder, Editor
Ed is the founder and editor at Lifes Beaches. He’s lived near a beach his whole life and loves exploring other great places to enjoy the sun and the sea. He’s a keen surfer and enjoys finding hidden beach spots to catch the best waves.
