Cornwall is renowned for its beautiful beaches. You don’t have to be surfing pro to appreciate beauty of the Cornish coastline; the beaches here offer something for everyone. Horse riders, dog walkers, kite surfers and sun worshippers can always find a beach to suit their needs. Long stretches of sand along the West Cornwall coastline like Gwithian and Marazion are awe-inspiring, but if you search a little further afield, you’ll find equally beautiful beaches away from the crowds. Here’s just a taste of some of the best ‘hidden’ beaches in West Cornwall…
Nanjizel:
Nanjizel beach is a small cove along the West Cornwall coast path. It isn’t easy to access as there are no direct roads or parking facilities nearby, but if you’re willing to walk you can park at Land’s End and take a 3 mile hike along the coastal path to reach it. The waters are beautifully clear and there are some stunning rock formations. It’s not popular with surfers due to the poor access and it hasn’t got any facilities such as toilets and food huts, but it more than makes up for it in its peaceful location. If you plan to stay the day, take a rucksack with drinks and snacks, and make sure to wear walking boots – you won’t make it there in flip flops!
Porthgwarra:
Porthgwarra is a small secluded cove between Land’s End and Porthcurno. Once a busy fishing village, the area is now popular with bird watchers and walkers. The cove and slipway are privately owned but people are welcomed to enjoy the small beach. It’s safe to swim in the cove as long as you don’t venture out too far where there are strong sea currents. Porthgwarra is relatively easy to access via foot or car and is home to a small shop and café which opens seasonally between April to October.
Pedn Vounder:
Pedn Vounder is a beautiful stretch of sand which sits next to the more popular Porthcurno beach. Although getting near to the beach is relatively easy with car parking in the nearby village of Treen, accessing the beach is more difficult and the descent can be tricky for some. If you manage to reach the beach you won’t be disappointed; it’s quiet, with beautiful blue seas and is home to the famous ‘Logan’s Rock’, an 80 ton piece of granite which has the ability to be rocked by a single person. As a cautionary note, Pedn Vounder is an unofficial naturist beach, so if you have any reservations stick to the neighbouring Porthcurno beach.