Located in the ‘Seven Bays’ – Porthcothan beach is a 10 minute walk away from us or a 5 minute bus ride down the hill. It is a north west-facing cove backed by grassy dunes popular for sunbathing and a favourite with families. The sandy beach opens out at low tide, connecting up with small coves to the north and south and at high tide the beach becomes very sheltered from swell and winds due to the cliffs. Swimming and board sports are on offer in a sheltered sea. The coast path gives wonderful views to both the north and the south as well as displaying a variety of wildlife. Parking, shops and toilet facilities are close by with beach level access. This pristine beach is often crowd-free and a haven for swimmers and bodyboarders, but its starring role as Nampara Cove in BBC’s Poldark series has – understandably – put its beauty in the spotlight.

Lifeguard cover from the 19th May until the 30th September. You are advised to always check beach conditions before your visit and always follow the lifeguards’ advice whilst on the beach. Current beach conditions and lifeguard cover can be checked on  https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches/porthcothan-beach

Porthcothan is a dog friendly beach, with no seasonal dog ban. It also houses a fantastic takeaway coffee and lunch stop – Porthcothan Bay Stores. Run by Barney and Emma you’ll not find a friendlier welcome around and a great place to get some food and drink locally.

The A5 Bus runs from Padstow to Newquay passing through St Merryn, Watergate Bay and Treburrick. You can view the current bus timetables below:

Monday to Friday (Except Public Holidays)

Saturdays

Sundays and Public Holidays

Things are always a little busy in Cornwall especially in the school holidays so below are top picks for things to prebook before you arrive…

Where to Eat

• Scott & Babs (5miles)
• Merrymoor Inn (4miles)
• Cornish Arms (3miles)
• The Pig (3.4miles)
• Prawn on the Lawn(5miles)
• The Seafood Restaurant (5miles)
• Falcon Inn (6.4miles)
• The Colonial (8.6miles)

Where to Visit

• Camel Valley Vineyard Tours (16.7miles)
• Newquay Zoo (8.9miles)
• Eden Project (19miles)
• Camel Trail Cycle Hire (5.2miles)
• Padstow Sealife Safari (5.2miles)
• Blue Reef Aquarium (10miles)

Where for Fun

• King Coasteer (3.7miles)
• King Surf lessons (3.7miles)
• St Eval Go Kart Circuit (2.3miles)
• The Pit for surf/wetsuit hire (2.7miles)
• Camel Creek Adventure Park (6.2miles)
• Lappa Valley Railway (15.2miles)