South Cornwall is known for its stunning coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and diverse natural beauty. Its beaches are particularly famous, drawing visitors from around the world to revel in their tranquil charm and warm waters. With a coastline stretching over 300 miles, it’s no wonder that Cornwall is home to some of the best beaches in the UK.
In this article, we’ll explore the 14 best beaches in South Cornwall, detailing what makes each one special and the perfect choice for your next seaside adventure. Grab your sunscreen and let’s dive in!
Best Beaches In South Cornwall
14 Best Beaches In South Cornwall
Kynance Cove
Kynance Cove is a true gem, located on the Lizard Peninsula. With its turquoise waters and white sands, this beach is one of the most picturesque spots in Cornwall.
The cove’s dramatic cliffs and sea caves offer fantastic opportunities for exploration, while the shallow waters make it perfect for families with young children.
Don’t forget to visit the Kynance Cove Café to enjoy a scrumptious Cornish cream tea!
Praa Sands
Praa Sands is a long, golden sandy beach located between Penzance and Helston. Known for its excellent surf conditions, it’s a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, especially surfers and paddleboarders.
The beach is also home to a surf school, making it the perfect place for beginners to learn the ropes.
The gently sloping sands make it ideal for families, while the nearby Sandbar provides a great spot for a refreshing drink.
Porthcurno
Porthcurno is a stunning, sheltered cove boasting soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
It’s located near the famous Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre carved into the cliffs. This makes it the perfect destination for culture and beach lovers alike.
The nearby Porthcurno Telegraph Museum adds a touch of history to your beach day, while the coastal walks offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Carne Beach
Nestled along the Roseland Peninsula, Carne Beach is a peaceful, unspoilt haven.
This wide, sandy beach is backed by rolling sand dunes and is perfect for long, leisurely strolls.
The shallow waters make it a great choice for families, and the lack of commercial development ensures a serene atmosphere.
Don’t forget to explore the nearby village of Veryan for a taste of traditional Cornish life.
Sennen Cove
Sennen Cove is a picturesque, crescent-shaped beach located near Land’s End.
Known for its outstanding surf conditions, it’s a favourite among surfers and bodyboarders. The pristine sands are perfect for sunbathing, while the charming village of Sennen provides plenty of options for dining and shopping.
The nearby Round House and Capstan Gallery showcase local art and crafts, adding a touch of culture to your beach day.
Lantic Bay
Lantic Bay is a secluded, crescent-shaped beach near Polruan, offering a sense of tranquillity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The steep climb down to the beach is rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline and azure waters.
Ideal for those seeking solitude, Lantic Bay’s unspoilt beauty makes it perfect for a romantic picnic or a quiet day of sunbathing.\
Polkerris Beach
Polkerris Beach is a small, sheltered cove near Fowey, featuring golden sand and calm waters.
It’s an excellent choice for families, as the beach is lifeguarded during the summer months and offers numerous facilities, including a watersports centre, pub, and café.
The nearby Polkerris Harbour provides opportunities for sailing and kayaking, while the South West Coast Path offers stunning views for those who prefer a leisurely walk.
Whitsand Bay
Whitsand Bay, located in the southeastern corner of Cornwall, is a series of stunning sandy beaches stretching over three miles.
This dramatic coastline is backed by rugged cliffs, offering a sense of seclusion and natural beauty.
Renowned for its fantastic surf conditions, Whitsand Bay is a popular destination for surfers and bodyboarders.
The nearby Tregonhawke Cliff provides excellent opportunities for paragliding, ensuring an adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers.
Gyllyngvase Beach
Gyllyngvase Beach, or “Gylly” as it’s affectionately known, is one of Falmouth’s most popular beaches.
Its golden sands and calm waters make it a favourite among families, while its Blue Flag status ensures excellent water quality and facilities.
The Gylly Beach Café serves delicious, locally-sourced food, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch. For those interested in marine life, the beach is also a great starting point for snorkelling and rock-pooling adventures.
Porthleven Beach
Situated near the picturesque village of Porthleven, this beach is known for its wild beauty and powerful waves.
Surfers from all over flock to Porthleven Beach for its challenging surf conditions, while beachcombers and walkers can enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery.
The iconic Porthleven Harbour, lined with charming cafes, pubs, and shops, adds to the beach’s allure.
Caerhays Beach
Caerhays Beach, also known as Porthluney Cove, is a sheltered, south-facing beach near St Austell.
Its golden sands and clear waters make it an excellent choice for families, while the impressive Caerhays Castle provides a stunning backdrop.
The nearby Caerhays Estate offers beautiful woodland walks and gardens, adding an extra touch of charm to this serene location.
Pentewan Sands
Pentewan Sands is a large, sandy beach near Mevagissey, with plenty of space for sunbathing, games, and water sports.
The beach is adjacent to a holiday park, providing excellent facilities for families, including a leisure centre, restaurants, and shops.
The nearby Pentewan Trail offers a scenic cycle route for those looking to explore the surrounding countryside.
Vault Beach
Vault Beach, also known as Bow Beach, is a secluded, south-facing beach near Gorran Haven.
Its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make it the perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity.
The shingle and sand beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, while the coastal path provides fantastic opportunities for walkers to enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Portwrinkle Beach
Portwrinkle Beach, located near Looe, is a mix of sand and rock pools, perfect for those looking to explore the local marine life.
The beach is divided into two sections, Finnygook Beach and Hoodny Cove, both of which are popular among local surfers.
The nearby village of Portwrinkle offers a charming setting for a post-beach stroll, complete with a quaint harbour and stunning coastal views.
Final Thoughts
South Cornwall’s diverse and picturesque beaches offer something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping water sports to serene escapes.
Whether you’re a seasoned beach-goer or planning your first coastal adventure, these 14 best beaches in South Cornwall guarantee a memorable experience.
So pack your swimsuit, grab your sunhat, and get ready to discover the breathtaking beauty of this spectacular region.
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.
