Cornwall is home to over 422 miles of golden sand beaches, and some of the most idyllic coastal seaside towns and villages in the UK. Whether you’re looking for rugged coastlines, beautiful cliffs, water sports or crystal clear waters, Cornwall’s stunning coastline is guaranteed to impress you.
I spent much of my childhood between Devon and Cornwall. After-school adventures, summer holidays, and weekend mini-breaks in the local area were spent exploring all of the sleepy coves and surfing paradises. It’s a very non-pretentious, friendly part of the UK where you can spend a weekend or an entire summer with the family and never get bored.
It’s a tough feat to narrow down the perfect seaside escapes to the top 9. One day I’d love to do a much longer post and cover many more of the 300(!) beaches in Cornwall!
But when it comes to a trip to the beach as a young family with children, there are some beautiful beaches that really do stand out.
Rain or shine, this coastline does not disappoint. Read on to discover the 9 best beaches in Cornwall for 2024.
Table of Contents
1. Porthcurno Beach: A Tropical Paradise
Porthcurno Beach – now here’s a slice of heaven! It’s like being transported to some exotic Caribbean island… except you’re still in good ol’ England.
Getting there is a bit of an adventure. Porthcurno is nestled in the far west of Cornwall, about 8 miles from Penzance. If you’re driving, just follow the A30 and then the B3283.
To paint you a picture of the beach- Imagine bright turquoise waters and silky golden sand between your toes. The beach is tucked away between towering granite cliffs, which give it this secluded, almost magical feel. Especially on a sunny summers day, you have to remind yourself that you’re actually in the UK!
One of the coolest things about Porthcurno is its proximity to the Minack Theatre. This is an open-air theatre perched on the cliffs above the beach. Watching a play with the ocean as a backdrop is just… something else. But if you book a ticket there, remember to bring a cushion and a blanket – those stone seats can be a bit hard!
When it comes to the best time to visit, that’s a bit of a tricky question. Summer is gorgeous, the sun’s out, the water’s (relatively) warm, and the beach is buzzing with energy. But I actually prefer visiting in late spring or early autumn. The weather’s still pretty decent by UK standards, but you don’t have to fight through crowds to find a spot to lay your towel. Plus, the sunsets during that time of year are absolutely breathtaking.
As for facilities at Porthcurno, there’s a decent-sized car park nearby, but get there early if you’re visiting in peak season or you’ll be circling like a shark looking for a spot. There are toilets and a small cafe, but I’d recommend packing a picnic with food you know the kids will love, and it saves you from having to wait in long queues to make an order.
For all water babies, Porthcurno is a great spot for swimming and snorkelling. The water’s usually pretty calm, but always check the conditions and look out for any warnings.
Final thing to note – the walk down to the beach can be a bit steep. But that view makes every step worth it. Just enjoy the scenery, and maybe use it as an excuse to treat yourself to an ice cream afterwards. That’s my strategy, anyway!
So there you have it – Porthcurno Beach in all its glory. It’s a little slice of tropical paradise. Definitely have your camera ready – you’re going want to put this place firmly into the memory banks of your UK staycation locations.
2. Kynance Cove: Nature’s Masterpiece on the Lizard Peninsula
I’ve been to my fair share of beaches, and this one is right up there in the league tables.
First things first, let’s talk about the rocks. There are stunning dark green rock formations dotted around the cove and shaped by the sea for millions of years. It’s full scale Mother Nature at work here.
Pro tip when you visit Kynance Cove- go during low tide. Trust me on this one. At low tide, you can explore caves, walk around the islands, and really get up close with the incredible rock formations. Just keep an eye on the tide times – the sea comes in faster than you’d think.
If you’re into photography (or just love a good Instagram shot), Kynance Cove is your playground. For the best views, hike up to the clifftop. It’s a bit of a climb, but it’s worth it. You get a panoramic view of the cove, with its islands, turquoise water, and white sand. Sunset is particularly magical – the way the light hits those serpentine rocks is divine.
Speaking of hikes, the coastal walks around Kynance are not to be missed. There’s a trail that goes from Kynance to Lizard Point (the most southerly point in mainland Britain) and it’s about two miles each way. You’ve got rugged cliffs, wildflowers in spring and summer, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some seals or even dolphins!
We tried this walk when i was pregnant with TJ and even knowing it’d take a while, it took even longer than I expected… Those views are seriously distracting! Essentially – pack more snacks (and suncream) than you think you’ll need!
Interesting fact about Kynance Cove – it featured in BBC’s Poldark series. So if you’re a fan, you can pretend you’re Ross Poldark brooding dramatically on the cliffs.
Kynance Cove is one of those places that reminds you just how incredible nature can be. It comes complete with geology, beauty, adventure – the whole package. Just remember to time your visit with the tides, bring your camera (and snacks!), and prepare to have your mind blown.
3. Fistral Beach: Newquay’s Surfing Mecca
Alright, on to Fistral Beach! Newquay has a solid place in my heart- my friends and I spent a good chunk of every summer growing up on this beach.
So, why is Fistral considered one of Europe’s top surfing spots? It’s all about those amazing waves. Fistral has this perfect combo of Atlantic swells and a west-facing beach that creates some seriously impressive waves.
If you’re a newbie to surfing but really want to give it a shot, you’ve come to the right place with Fistral. There are surfing schools galore. I took my first lesson here when I was a teenager, and it was actually a really humbling experience. Turns out, surfing looks way easier in movies than it is in real life. But the instructors are patient and super encouraging, and the fun always outweighs the toughness.
Fistral isn’t just about casual surfing, though. It’s the location of The Boardmasters Festival, so if you want to watch the pros do their thing, plan your trip for August. There’s loads going on over Boardmasters, but it’s also the busiest time of year so book everything in advance.
On the facilities front, Fistral is very well set up, and has dramatically improved since the days we were kids. There are toilets and showers to rinse off the sand that somehow always ends up in places sand should never be. And for food options, there’s a place called The Stable right on the beach that does amazing pizzas and pies. You’re definitely going to be working up an appetite after a day in the waves!
If you’re feeling a little more fancy, there’s also Rick Stein’s Fistral restaurant, and (obviously) the fish and chips come very highly recommended.
Fistral can get very busy, especially during summer and when there are events on. If you’re not a fan of crowds, try either visiting early in the morning, or before the school holidays hit.
4. Porthmeor Beach: St Ives’ Art-Inspired Shoreline
Porthmeor Beach. It’s like Mother Nature and a group of creative folks got together and said, “Let’s make a beach, but make it fabulous!” Porthmeor is best known for the sheet number of internationally acclaimed artists who have worked here in the artist studios – perched right above the beach. I’m not surprised in any way, given the breathtaking views from the studios. .
From a child and family-friendly perspective, Porthmeor is perfect. There are no difficult cliffs to traverse, the beach slopes gently, and there are lifeguards on watch throughout the summer.
To get on to the real star of the show, we have to talk about the sunset. Oh. My. Word. If you haven’t seen a Porthmeor sunset, you haven’t lived.
Pro tip: grab a spot on the rocks at the north end of the beach. Just don’t get so caught up in the view that you forget about the tide coming in.
And in winter? Storm watching here is like front row seats to nature’s own rock concert. The waves were crashing against the rocks, the wind was howling – it was wild in the best possible way.
If you’re looking for snacks, there’s a cute beach cafe. After a day of getting tossed around by the waves or battling the wind, their hot chocolate tastes like it was made by angels.
So there you have it – Porthmeor Beach in all its artsy, family-friendly, sunset-spectacular glory. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a surf bum, or just someone who appreciates a good view Porthmeor has something for you.
5. Porthminster Beach: Tropical Vibes and Culinary Delights
Porthminster is one of the best Beaches in Cornwall for you if you like your Mediterranean vibes. You’ll arrive for your first visit and squint up at them and think, “Am I in the right country?!” Nothing beats lounging under those palms, pretending you’re on some exotic island while you’re actually just a stone’s throw from your gran’s place in St Ives.
When it comes to the water, it’s perfect for swimming and paddling – especially with young children. It’s so calm and clear, it’s like nature’s own swimming pool. And if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, there are activities like paddleboarding available to book
If you’re not a water baby (or your kids are looking for a change of scene), there’s always the mini-golf course to check out.
And then for some refreshments, check out Porthminster Beach Cafe. I recommend the crab linguine. It’s 10/10!
The beauty of Porthminster Beach comes from the fact that something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a beach bum, or a mini-golf champion in the making, you’ll love it.
You have families who set up camp for the day, complete with windbreaks, coolers, and enough sand toys to start their own shop. And then there are the couples, strolling hand in hand along the water’s edge, looking like they’ve stepped right out of a romantic comedy.
Porthminster Beach in all its palm-tree-dotted, culinary-delight-offering, family-friendly glory is absolutely one of the best beaches in Cornwall.
6. Watergate Bay: A Beach for All Seasons
Watergate Bay is a gorgeous two mile stretch of beach. We first visited in late autumn, thinking we’d have the beach to ourselves. I was wrong! There were surfers riding the waves, families huddled in windbreakers building sandcastles, and dogs running around having the time of their lives (Watergate Bay is dog friendly all year round!)I
We decided to walk the whole length of the bay and back, thinking it’d be a breeze. It was longgg, but the views were so worth it. There’s something about watching the waves roll in while you’re trudging along that soothes the soul.
Speaking of waves, if you’re into water sports, Watergate Bay is your playground. The Extreme Academy is a specialist school for surfing, bodyboarding, and kitesurfing etc. They provide all of the equipment hire, and the instructors are amazing.
If you’re into walking, there are some great routes around the bay, including an easy-moderate coastal path walk towards Newquay. It’s about a 3.5 mile route, and the views are spectacular.
After all that walking, surfing, or dog-petting, you’re going to work up an appetite. And Watergate Bay delivers on that front too. There’s a place called The Beach Hut right on the sand. It’s nothing fancy, but when you’re watching the sunset over the ocean with a burger and cold drink in hand, it feels pretty special.
For fancier occasions, there’s Zacry’s restaurant. The food is amazing, but it’s the sea view that really steals the show.
7. Lusty Glaze Beach: Secluded Adventure Cove
Lusty Glaze is one of my favourite of the best beaches in Cornwall. I will say this to though- getting there is an adventure in itself. You walk down what feels like a million steps, wondering if you’ve taken a wrong turn somewhere. But then, bam! You round a corner and there it is – this gorgeous horseshoe-shaped cove. Check the tide times before you go, because if you arrive at high tide, you’ll find yourself staring at a whole lot of water and not much beach. But when the tide’s out? This place is paradise.
Lusty Glaze is one of my favourite of the best beaches in Cornwall. But I will say this to start- getting there is an adventure in itself. You walk down what feels like a million steps, wondering if you’ve taken a wrong turn somewhere. But then, bam! You round a corner and there it is – this gorgeous horseshoe-shaped cove. Check the tide times before you go, because if you arrive at high tide, you’ll find yourself staring at a whole lot of water and not much beach. But when the tide’s out? This place is paradise.
Beyond the beauty of the cove, let’s cover the adventure activities because this is where Lusty Glaze really shines. It’s perhaps not for families with younger children, but you can rock climb and abseil and zipline across the beach.
Lusty Glaze is also renowned for events: sunset sessions (live music with your toes in the sand and a cold drink in your hand), and beach BBQs. Divine. Just watch out for the seagulls – those guys are opportunistic little thieves. It’s also an incredible and popular location for a wedding venue! Can you imagine saying your vows with that stunning coastline as your backdrop?!
One thing to keep in mind: Lusty Glaze is a privately owned beach. But don’t let that put you off – it just means it’s super well-maintained. Plus, it never gets as crowded as some of the more well-known beaches nearby. It’s like having your own little slice of Cornish heaven.
8. Gyllyngvase Beach: Falmouth’s Family Favorite
Another of the best beaches in Cornwall – Gyllyngvase Beach – or “Gylly” as the locals like to call it. Its Blue Flag status means it’s basically like the Michelin star of beaches. Clean water, top-notch facilities, safety measures… It’s an absolutely perfect beach for families with babies and toddlers. Beach safety is where Gylly really shines and they’re extremely committed to having a number of lifeguards on duty at any one time.
The Gylly Beach Cafe is also real great. The kind of place that ruins you for other beach snack shacks. Everything’s locally sourced, which means you’re basically eating Cornwall on a plate.
In terms of activities like paddleboarding, Gylly is a watersports paradise. They’ve got everything from paddleboards to kayaks.
One thing I love about Gylly is how it changes with the seasons. Summer’s all about beach volleyball, swimming in the sea, and ice creams. But come winter? It’s a whole different ball game. There’s something magical about wrapping up warm and watching the waves crash in.
Oh, and if you’re into people-watching, Gylly’s great for that too. From the early morning swimmers (braver souls than I am) to the sunset yoga groups, there’s always something going on.
9. Polzeath Beach: Wildlife Watching and Surfing Haven
Polzeath Beach… No list of best Cornish beaches would be complete without Polzeath. I’ve spent more hours than I can count trying to catch waves, spotting wildlife, and having a lovely sandy picnic with the family
Let’s start with the surfing, shall we? Polzeath is like the Goldilocks of surf spots – not too wild, not too tame, but just right. The waves at Polzeath are pretty forgiving, and they’re consistent, which means you’re not sitting around twiddling your thumbs waiting for the perfect set. If you’re learning to surf in Cornwall, it’s the place of dreams.
On the Wildlife front, if you’re lucky you’ll spot seals and dolphins playing in the waves. As for seabirds, they’re everywhere! Gannets, cormorants, you name it. Just watch out for the seagulls – they’ve got a knack for knowing exactly when you’ve just unwrapped your sandwich.
Once the low tide hits, that’s when the real fun begins for the budding marine biologists out there. Rock pooling at Polzeath is like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, you’re finding all sorts of weird and wonderful sea creatures. I once spent a good hour watching a hermit crab trying to move into a new shell. It was like a very slow, very wet episode of House Hunters.
For amenities – the National Trust car park is a godsend, especially during peak season when finding a spot can be tougher than catching a wave. Just remember to bring some change to pay for parking.
There are also toilets and a couple of cafes nearby. My personal favourite is the Surf’s Up Cafe – nothing beats a hot chocolate and a bacon sarnie after a morning in the chilly Atlantic.
My top tip if you’re planning on spending the day at Polzeath- bring layers. The weather is highly changeable. One minute you’re baking in the sun, the next you’re huddled under your towel. Layers help.
Polzeath Beach absolutely deserves it’s spot on my list of the best beaches in Cornwall. You can surf (or attempt to), commune with nature, and have a grand old time with the family.
Conclusion: The Best Beaches in Cornwall for your family holiday
Cornwall’s beaches are so much more than just stretches of sand and sea. From the tropical paradise of Porthcurno to the surfing mecca of Fistral Beach, each shoreline is so unique, charming. There are board sports on the beaches, and the surrounding villages sprinkle an extra little magic on your trip.
You might be looking for an adventure, some relaxation, or a bit of both… The experience definitely differs depending on the month you go, but these 9 best beaches in Cornwall offer something for every type of beachgoer.
Remember to give your full respect the local environment, and the locals of the area. We’re so blessed to be able to have these beaches and villages on our doorstep in the UK, and need to protect them at all costs.
After taking in all that breathtaking beauty that makes Cornwall’s beaches truly world-class, you might end up re-thinking all of those beach trips abroad!