Cornwall's hidden beaches
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Cornwall has the longest stretch of coastline of any UK county, and more than 300 beaches. Most are well-known and popular with visitors, others are hidden from view, like these...
Hawker’s Cove
Where? Just over a mile north of Padstow, on the west side of the Camel estuary, near PadstowGetting there: Signed off the B3275; the road is narrow with passing places
Parking: A grassed car park is near the beach
Dogs allowed? Yes
A 10-minute walk from the car park takes you over a low stile and down a path that borders farmland. As the path levels out and becomes sandy, a magnificent beach scene unfolds and you realise why so many artists get their inspiration in Cornwall. This picture of turquoise sea and pale sand epitomises the glorious beaches of the Cornish peninsula. Hawker’s Cove is a vast expanse of sand in a sheltered bay bordered by low dunes. Bring a picnic, beach games, sun mats, books – and you have the beach virtually to yourself even in summer.
Rock
Where? Rock, near PadstowGetting there: Drive, or catch a ferry from Padstow Harbour
Parking: Near the beach
Dogs allowed? Not from Easter to October
You can drive to the tiny hamlet of Rock, on the north side of the River Camel estuary (A389 from Bodmin, then B3314 and follow signs). But by far the most enjoyable way to get here is via a tiny pedestrian ferry from Padstow harbour. The long stretch of sand that is Rock beach is perfect for taking a good walk – and then, perhaps, make for the Rock Inn for lunch which overlooks the shore. The magic of Rock is that it’s sheltered and wonderfully quiet. And when you want to catch the ferry back to Padstow? A sign on the beach reads: “To summon the ferry please wave hand flag in box until the ferry leaves Padstow.” Somehow this quaint method of communication enhances the charm of tranquil Rock beach.
Harlyn Bay
Where? Harlyn Bay, near Wadebridge and PadstowGetting there: Signed off the B3276
Parking: Beside the beach
Dogs allowed? Yes
This is a perfect family beach where parking is adjacent, ideal if you’re carrying beach gear. Bring the surfboards here, if the sea conditions are right, or swim, for the beach shelves only very gradually towards the sea and the waters are crystal clear. Sloping cliffs of friable slate border the sand, crowned by hardy pink flowers that find a precarious footing in the wind-eroded sandy soil. There’s an island not far off shore to punctuate the view; this is a spectacular place from all angles – and even at high tide there is plenty of sand.
Portwrinkle
Where? Rame Peninsula, three miles east of SeatonGetting there: Take the B3247 and follow signs to Portwrinkle
Parking: At the top of cliffs
Dogs allowed? Not between Easter and October
The Rame Peninsula is Cornwall’s most easterly attraction, a stunningly beautiful series of dramatically rugged cliffs, secluded bays and enticing beaches. Portwrinkle is the westerly point of the Rame Peninsula. There’s a car park at the top of the cliff, from where you can decide whether to walk west or east. Spectacular views stretch out in both directions. Children will love to bring fishing nets on sticks and explore rock pools at low tide. Adults will enjoy a saunter along the sand. Portwrinkle is a remote, quiet little gem that epitomises the coves and beaches of the Rame – come to this peninsula prepared to don the walking boots and explore.
Trevone
Where? Trevone Beach, near Wadebridge and PadstowGetting there: Signed from the B3276
Parking: Adjacent to the beach
Dogs allowed? No
Trevone is a small whitewashed hamlet with a café selling breakfasts, lunches and enticing cakes, and a surf-gear shop selling practical and fashion clothing. You can hire wet suits and surfboards, or hire a cycle and set off on the Camel Trail, which starts here. The Coastal Path curls away over the headland, beckoning the walker, for there is a spectacular view at every turn here. The babble of a stream that wends its way to the sea on the south side of the beach mingles with the distant voices of children paddling in the surf – there is plenty of space for all here.
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