Try out this stunning journey along North Cornwall’s shoreline, to discover our recommended beaches in Cornwall. From golden sands to breath-taking surf spots

🌊 Beaches in Cornwall to Explore

Try out this stunning journey along North Cornwall’s shoreline, discovering golden sands, dramatic surf, and some of the best beaches in Cornwall. This route keeps things simple and scenic — just you, the coast, and ten incredible beaches worth stopping for.

🏖️ Best Beaches in Cornwall

A). Sandymouth Bay

B). Summerleaze Beach

C). Widemouth Bay

D). Harlyn Bay

E). Fistral Beach

F). Holywell Bay

G). Chapel Porth Beach

H). Gwithian Beach

I). Carbis Bay Beach

J). Porthminster Beach

Places to Stay in Cornwall

🌟 Beach Details

Sandymouth Bay

Wild and rugged with dramatic cliffs and a wide sandy stretch at low tide. Dog friendly: Yes, all year Facilities: Seasonal toilets, seasonal café, lifeguards in summer Parking: National Trust car park (steep walk down) Vibe: Remote, untamed, brilliant for walkers and wave‑watchers

Summerleaze Beach

Classic Bude seaside with a tidal sea pool and easy access from town. Dog friendly: Yes (restrictions in peak season) Facilities: Toilets, showers, café, beach huts, lifeguards Parking: Large car park right by the beach Vibe: Lively but relaxed, great for families and first‑time visitors

Widemouth Bay

A long, open bay perfect for surfing, bodyboarding, and big‑sky sunsets. Dog friendly: Yes (some zones restricted in summer) Facilities: Toilets, cafés, surf hire, lifeguards Parking: Several car parks along the bay Vibe: Laid‑back surf spot with plenty of space

Harlyn Bay

Sheltered and shallow with soft sand and clear water. Dog friendly: Yes, all year Facilities: Toilets, surf school, seasonal food vans, lifeguards Parking: Large car park close to the beach Vibe: Safe, friendly, ideal for families and beginner surf

Fistral Beach

Cornwall’s surf capital and the most famous Newquay beach. Dog friendly: Yes, all year Facilities: Toilets, showers, restaurants, surf shops, lifeguards Parking: Multiple car parks nearby Vibe: Energetic, surfy, buzzing atmosphere

Holywell Bay

Huge dunes, sweeping sands, and the iconic twin rocks offshore. Dog friendly: Yes, all year Facilities: Seasonal toilets, nearby café, lifeguards in summer Parking: National Trust car park Vibe: Cinematic and wild, perfect for dune‑running and big views

50Chapel Porth Beach

A small cove at high tide that opens into a stunning bay at low tide. Dog friendly: Seasonal restrictions Facilities: Toilets, café (famous hedgehog ice cream), lifeguards Parking: Small National Trust car park (fills quickly) Vibe: Dramatic cliffs, caves, and rock pools

Gwithian Beach

Endless sand, rolling surf, and views across St Ives Bay. Dog friendly: Seasonal restrictions Facilities: Toilets, cafés, surf hire, lifeguards Parking: Several car parks behind the dunes Vibe: Big, open, beautiful — perfect for long walks and sunsets

Carbis Bay Beach

Sheltered and calm with soft sand and clear, gentle water. Dog friendly: Seasonal restrictions Facilities: Toilets, cafés, restaurants, watersports hire, lifeguards Parking: Limited — fills fast Vibe: Relaxed, upmarket, ideal for swimming

Porthminster Beach

Palm‑lined, soft sand and gentle waves right on the edge of St Ives. Dog friendly: Seasonal restrictions Facilities: Toilets, café/restaurant, beach shop, lifeguards Parking: Use St Ives car parks and walk down Vibe: Picture‑perfect, calm, great for couples or chilled family days

🕒 How Long This Beach Run Takes

• Ideal: 2–3 days with time to swim and explore
• Leisurely: 3–5 days for a relaxed coastal break

💡 Quick Tips for This Route

• Arrive early in summer — parking fills fast
• Check tide times (especially Sandymouth & Chapel Porth)
• Bring layers — coastal winds can be chilly
• Many beaches are more dog‑friendly outside peak season
• Pack water and snacks — some beaches have limited facilities