Lankidden Cove

A secluded, south-facing cove reachable via coastal path, a 1 mile ramble east from Kennack Sands. With access only from the coastal path allows for little disturbance for those in search of quietude on this sandy beach. Downas, the neighbouring cove to the east is also accessible by the coast path. The impressive headland protecting Lankidden, known as Carrick Lûz, is also known for its Iron Age Cliff Fort that once dominated the headland. At this point, a dyke of gabbro, a dark, igneous rock, cuts the natural serpentine commonly situated across the Lizard. Lankidden is also a favourite for keen anglers where rocks protruding off the headland provide a perfect place not only to fish, but to spot larger creatures. Basking sharks and dolphins are frequently seen around this part of the Lizard’s unspoilt coastline. Although the path down is not clear, exploratory bathers will find the treasure is in the discovery of what is one of Cornwall’s most beautiful and cherished beaches.

Dog friendly all year round

No Lifeguards

Directions: From Kennack Sands car park, follow the coastal path east for 1 mile past Compass Cove. When you hit the dirt track, cross over it and the path to Lankidden will be on your right, travelling south.

Beach location: 50.00804, -5.13315

Penarvon Cove

Penarvon Cove is a very well hidden niche on the wild southern banks of the River Helford, near the village of Manaccan In Cornwall. The Helford River has long been recognised for its beauty, as well as its geological and biological importance. It exhibits almost 50km of stunning coastline, from rocky shores to muddy creeks, where unspoiled woodland and rolling fields meet the Atlantic. The beach is made up from the characteristic angular slated shingle and grey sand that dominates most of the beaches on the river. Often overlooked due to the fact that people just don’t know it even exists, its an exceptionally quiet retreat compared to the busier neighbouring spots of Helford Village and Helford Passage across the water. Just round the corner to the west and within walking distance from Penarvon beach is Frenchman’s Creek, made famous by Daphne du Maurier’s historical novel, set in west Cornwall during the reign of Charles II.

Dog friendly.

No lifeguards on duty.

Directions: Park in Helford Village and take the footpath west along the bank of the river. Alternatively, park on the other side of the river at Helford Passage and take the passenger ferry across the river.

Secret beach location: 50.094472,-5.138662

Helford Passage Beach

Helford Passage is a small hamlet on the north side of the River Helford, directly opposite the village of Helford in Cornwall. The Helford River has long been recognised for its beauty, as well as its geological and biological importance. It exhibits almost 50km of stunning coastline, from rocky shores to muddy creeks, where unspoiled woodland and rolling fields meet the Atlantic. The small greyish sand beach at the foot of the Ferryboat In is accessible at both high and low tide often full of activity due to the coming and going of boats, tenders and the ferry. This means that if you are searching for a quiet spot to yourself, this isn’t it, but what it lacks in solitude it makes up for in character. From Easter through to October, 7 days a week, a small pedestrian ferry transports visitors and locals across the river between Helford Village and Helford Passage. Taking roughly 10 minutes per crossing, the ferry crossings have been running continuously since the middle ages. Back then it was a vital link for transportation of local produce on its way to the markets in Falmouth. Excellent walking opportunities can be had along the north banks of the Helford with small but defined footpaths leading east and west. Take a short walk east towards Polgwidden, Durgan and up to Rosemullion Head for impressive vistas across Falmouth bay and the whole River. There are excellent facilities just behind the beach that offer the option of hiring water craft and sinking a cold pint in the pub.

Dog friendly.

No lifeguards on duty.

Directions: Head toward the North Helford and follow signs to Mawnan Smith. After leaving the village continue pas the Glendurgan entrance and onward to Helford Passge. You will find a small car park to the right as you roll down the hill into the hamlet.

Secret beach location: 50.099909,-5.129199

Polgwidden Cove

The northern banks of the Helford River in Cornwall are home to a number of secret coves and inlets with Polgwidden Cove being one of them. The Helford River has long been recognised for its beauty, as well as its geological and biological importance. It exhibits almost 50km of stunning coastline, from rocky shores to muddy creeks, where unspoiled woodland and rolling fields meet the Atlantic. Polgwidden Cove is a southeast facing, fine shingled beach with a unique slipway ideal for boating at high tide and crabbing at low. The water is safe for swimming but be aware that this is a river and some currents will occur so weaker swimmers should stay close to the shore. It is situated at the foot of the subtropical Trebah Gardens that wind inland up the valley across 26 acres, making this an ideal opportunity to explore both land and shore in a single visit. Be aware that unlike Glendurgan, the beach is not actually accessible from the gardens. During World War II Polgwidden Cove was used by the military to launch an attack on Omaha Beach in Normandy. Since then, some of the concrete military structures have been removed and a boathouse has been built on the beach. Excellent walking opportunities can be had along the north banks of the Helford with small but defined footpaths leading east and west. Take a short walk east towards Durgan and up to Rosemullion Head for impressive vistas across Falmouth bay and the whole River. Alternatively, head west and get a pint at the Ferryboat Boat Inn, Helford Passage.

Dog friendly.

No lifeguards on duty.

Directions: Head toward the North Helford and follow signs to Mawnan Smith. After leaving the village turn left at the cross roads before you reach the Glendurgan entrance. Park in the National Trust car park to the right, opposite Bosloe, and make the 10 minute walk down to Durgan. From here, follow the coastal path west until you reach Polgwidden. Alternatively, park at Helford Passage and take the coastal path east.

Secret beach location: 50.10068,-5.121474

Porthallack Cove

The northern banks of the Helford River in Cornwall are home to a number of secret coves and inlets with Porthallack Cove being one of them. The Helford River has long been recognised for its beauty, as well as its geological and biological importance. It exhibits almost 50km of stunning coastline, from rocky shores to muddy creeks, where unspoiled woodland and rolling fields meet the Atlantic. Porthallack is primarily made from pebbles so isn’t a typical ‘bucket and spade’beach but the likelihood of getting it to yourself is relatively high, making it ideal for peaceful picnics. It proximity to the river mouth means that it can be susceptible to south/southeasterly winds during the winter months. The water is safe for swimming but be aware that this is a river and some currents will occur so weaker swimmers should stay close to the shore. Due to its distance from the more popular riverside spots such as Durgan, the secluded shore of Porth Sawsen is relatively quiet and ideal for uninterrupted picnics. Excellent walking opportunities can be had along the banks of the Helford with small but defined footpaths leading east and west. Take a short walk west towards Durgan and get a pint at the Ferryboat Boat Inn, Helford Passage. Alternatively, head eastward up to Rosemullion Head for impressive vistas across Falmouth bay and the whole River.

Dog friendly.

No lifeguards on duty.

Directions: Head towards the North Helford and follow signs to Mawnan Smith. Take the back road from Mawnan to Maenporth and park in the Carwinion Playing Fields car park. Take the wide footpath to the side of Carwinion Gardens down to Porth Sawsen. Take the coastal path eastward towards to the river mouth and you will find the small cove of Porthallack to your right.

Secret beach location: 50.10134,-5.103321

Porth Sawsen

The northern banks of the Helford River in Cornwall are home to a number of secret coves and inlets with Porth Sawsen (Porth Saxon) being one of them. It’s small boathouse and typical Helford fauna make it a picture postcard setting and the large slate pebbles fall away to grey sand at lower tides. It proximity to the river mouth means that it can be susceptible to easterly winds during the winter months. The water is safe for swimming but be aware that this is a river and some currents will occur so weaker swimmers should stay close to the shore. Due to its distance from the more popular riverside spots such as Durgan, the secluded shore of Porth Sawsen is relatively quiet and ideal for uninterrupted picnics. Excellent walking opportunities can be had along the banks of the Helford with small but defined footpaths leading east and west. Take a short walk west towards Durgan and get a pint at the Ferryboat Boat Inn, Helford Passage. Alternatively, head eastward up to Rosemullion Head for impressive vistas across Falmouth bay and the whole River.

Dog friendly.

No lifeguards on duty.

Directions: Head towards the North Helford and follow signs to Mawnan Smith. Take the back road from Mawnan to Maenporth and park in the Carwinion Playing Fields car park. Take the wide footpath to the side of Carwinion Gardens down to Porth Sawsen.

Secret beach location: 50.102552,-5.104866

Grebe Beach

Grebe Beach is an intimate fringe of greyish shingle on the northern bank of the Helford River, about 10 minute drive from Falmouth. It is situated just to the east of the more popular Durgan Beach, but its access route is via a particularly steep path making is far quieter. The water is safe for swimming with plenty of rocky outcrops to explore and dive from. Be wary that this is a river and some currents will occur so weaker swimmers should stay close to the shore. There are no mooring close to the beach and boats are not allowed to anchor near it. Just round the corner the annual Durgan Reggetta is held by the locals on the last Sunday of August and makes for great day out. The prestigious ‘Row & Run event’ incorporates both Durgan and Grebe beaches and is well worth watching. Excellent walking opportunities can be had along the banks of the Helford with small but defined footpaths leading east and west. Take a short walk west and stop off for a drink at The Ferryboat Inn on the Helford Passage.

Dog friendly.

No lifeguards on duty.

Directions: Head toward the North Helford and follow signs to Mawnan Smith. After leaving the village turn left at the cross roads before you reach the Glendurgan entrance. Park in the National Trust car park to the right, opposite Bosloe, and make the 10 minute walk down to the coast. Take the steep footpath to the left down onto Grebe Beach just before you reach Durgan.

Secret beach location: 50.103653,-5.112419

Durgan Beach

Down on the northern banks on the Helford River hides the picturesque hamlet of Durgan and its south-east facing beach. The hamlet consists of 15 cottages, most of them now owned by the National Trust and has a permanent population of just 10. It is situated at the foot of the subtropical Glendurgan Gardens that wind inland up the valley, making this an ideal opportunity to explore both land and shore in a single visit. Although Durgan Beach is fairly narrow at high tide, the sandy/shingle beach is accessible most time of the tide and its slipway is popular with boaters with a few deep water mooring sitting just offshore. Durgan was once home to Captain George Vancouver, an English officer in the Royal Navy, famous for exploring and chartering North America’s northwestern Pacific coastline. The beach offers stunning vistas over the river and across the wilder southern banks of the Helford. The water is safe for swimming with plenty of rocky outcrops to explore and dive from, as well as a cave in the rocks roughly 100m from the beach for more confident swimmers. Be wary that this is a river and some currents will occur so weaker swimmers should stay close to the shore. The annual Durgan Reggetta is held by the locals on the last Sunday of August and makes for great day out. Bring food and drink and keep an eye out for the prestigious ‘Row & Run event’. Excellent walking opportunities can be had along the banks of the Helford with small but defined footpaths leading east and west. Take a short walk west and stop off for a drink at The Ferryboat Inn on the Helford Passage.

No dogs.

No lifeguards on duty.

Directions: Head toward the North Helford and follow signs to Mawnan Smith. After leaving the village turn left at the cross roads before you reach the Glendurgan entrance. Park in the National Trust car park to the right, opposite Bosloe, and make the 10 minute walk down to the coast. There is no parking at the beach.

Secret beach location: 50.103653,-5.115595

Porthkerris Cove

Porthkerris Cove is a privately owned stretch of shingle beach surrounded by imposing cliffs on the east coast of the Lizard Peninsula. Its coarse dark shingle doesn’t offer a typical ‘bucket and spade’ beach but its dramatic rocky outcrops and views across Falmouth Bay still make it well worth the visit. Parking can be found through the gates in front of the beach for a small fee. The family run Porthkerris diving centre has been established here and provides a large range of facilities during the summer including toilets and a small cafe. The beach is a favourite with divers due to the close proximity to the infamous Mannacles (Mên Eglos), a particularly treacherous group of rocks that many ships have fallen victim to. These wrecks provide word class diving sites that people travel far and wide to explore. Also, excellent mackerel fishing opportunities can be found just to the north of the beach adjacent to the old Torpedo Testing Station and Oberservation Point owned by the MOD.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Travel toward the Lizard and follow sing posts to St. Keverne. From here take directions to Porthallow until you see some a gateway made of stone eagles. Take the next turning to the right signposted Porthkerris Dive centre and follow the lane down to the beach. Parking for a fee can be found through the gates adjacent to the beach.

Secret beach location: 50.06434, -5.06665

Godrevy Cove

Down on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula is a rarely visited cove that even the most avid of explorers may not have heard of. Approximately one mile east of St. Keverne and nestled between the two disused quarries at Dean Point and Porthoustock, Godervey Cove sits adjacent to its smaller brother Leggan Cove. Godrevy Cove exhibits shingle and course dark sand that falls away gradually into the crystal clear waters that surround this amazing coastline. About a nautical mile offshore lies the Mistrel Rock, Carn Du Rocks and teh Varses, also known as The Mannacles (Mên Eglos), a particularly treacherous group of rocks that many ships have fallen victim to.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Drive to St. Keverne and then follow signs to the small hamlet of Rosenthon. From there take the footpath through the fields and down onto the Southwest Coastal Path. You will eventually arrive at Godrevy Cove with Leggan Cove just to the north.

Secret beach location: 50.04786, -5.06652

Leggan Cove

Down on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula is a rarely visited cove that even the most avid of explorers may not have heard of. Approximately one mile east of St. Keverne and nestled between the two disused quarries at Dean Point and Porthoustock, Leggan Cove sits adjacent to its bigger brother Godrevy Cove. Leggan Cove exhibits shingle and course dark sand that falls away gradually into the crystal clear waters that surround this amazing coastline. About a nautical mile offshore lies the Mistrel Rock, Carn Du Rocks and the Varses, also known as The Mannacles (Mên Eglos), a particularly treacherous group of rocks that many ships have fallen victim to.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Drive to St. Keverne and then follow signs to the small hamlet of Rosenthon. From there take the footpath through the fields and down onto the Southwest Coastal Path. You will eventually arrive at Godrevy Cove with Leggan Cove just to the north.

Secret beach location: 50.05009, -5.06412

Coverack Beach

With its small harbour and pebbled sandy beach, Coverack is a very pretty fishing village on the east side of the Lizard Peninsula in southwest Cornwall. The beach is scattered with numerous boulders and rocks amongst the light grey sands where they eventually meet the turquoise water. A popular fishing spot that is due to the abundance of food that washes past Lizard Point with every swing in the tide. It is also a popular with divers due to the scattering of shipwrecks around The Manacles, a particularly treacherous group of rocks that extend about one nautical mile out to see. Many ships have fallen foul of the semi-submerged rocks over the years including HMS Primrose (1809), SS Mohegan (1898) and Spyridon Vagliano (1890). Swimming is generally safe but council signs have been erected warning of bathing at low tide when currents can be much stronger. Access to the beach can be found via a flight steps from the car park and facilities are provided within the village. The annual Chirstmas Day swim at Coverack is a tradition that has been around for nearly 50 years and raises thousands of pounds for charity every year. If you happen to be in or near the village over Christmas be sure to get involved...it’s not that cold!

No lifeguard on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Head towards the Lizard and follow sign post to Coverack. Park in the village car park above the beach or a in the smaller parking spot on Dolor Point behind the harbour.

Secret beach location: 50.02475, -5.0972

Porthoustock

Porthoustock beach on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula is rarely frequented by people due to the lack of golden sand. Don’t let the characteristic grey pebbles put you off because it offers up many other unique and interesting features. The beach drops away steeply into the water and can swimmers can quickly find themselves out of their depth so caution should be taken. It is also a popular with divers due to the scattering of shipwrecks around The Manacles, a particularly treacherous group of rocks that extend about one nautical mile out to see. Many ships have fallen foul of the semi-submerged rocks over the years including HMS Primrose (1809), SS Mohegan (1898) and Spyridon Vagliano (1890). The beach is dominated by the large concrete stone mill, used to crush stone that was extracted from the nearby quarries since the late nineteenth century. Several small fishing boats still operate from this beach, mainly working with lobster and crab pots.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Drive to St. Keverne and then follow directions to St. Keverne. Park next to the quay and walk down onto the beach.

Secret beach location: 50.055933,-5.064096

Porthallow Cove

Porthallow sits on the relatively unexplored eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula and faces northeast. This orientation shelters it from the prevailing south westerly winds that Cornwall often experiences. It is a small traditional fishing village and was once home to a successful pilchard industry. The beach lies directly on a glacial fault line and exhibits an amazing array of geological features that lure people far and wide. The cliffs around Porthallow cove form part of the SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) noted for its geological features.

No lifeguards on Duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Park in the carpark adjacent to the beach and walk down onto the sand.

Secret beach location: 50.068317,-5.079567

Polpeor Cove

A small, dark sanded beach just round from the Lizard Point, the most Southerly Point in England. Overlooking the cove is the old Lizard Point Lifeboat Station which is no longer in operation and has now become a heritage centre. Dangerous tidal currents sweep past this point and swimming is not recommended. The most Southerly Cafe is perched at the top of the cliff above the cove, ideal for a cream tea and a drink.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Take the road towards Lizard Point and park up by the old lighthouse. Walk down the slipway and onto the beach.

Secret beach location: 49.95951,-5.207305

Pentreath

Pentreath is located just south of kynance cove, on the western side of the Lizard Pensula and a well kept secret that is popular with people in the know. The small pebble beach at high tide turns into a long open stretch of golden sand as the water retreats. Due to its orientation, it is fully exposed to everything the Altantic can throw at it and powerful empty waves can often be found down here. Keep an eye out for the impressive ship’s boiler semi-submerged in the sand.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Follow the signposts to Kynance Cove but turn left just before the white house and park at the top of the cliff. Alternatively, park in Kynance Cove car park and walk the short distance south. Access via the steep goat path down the cliff is tricky. An easier route can be found to the south of the bay.


Secret beach location: 49.97029,-5.218796

Dollar Cove

At the end of the impressive Loe Bar and around the headland of Halzephron lies Dollar cove on Lizard Peninsula. The cove is named after the great wreck in 1780 when 2 tonnes of silver coins were lost overboard. At high tide the beach is generally comprised of stones but a marvellous sandy bay is revealed as the tide drops, broken up by a scattering of contorted granite outcrops. Uncrowded waves can be had at low tide, with fun sandbars forming all the way across the bay.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly (October to Easter)

Directions: Drive down past the farm and park in the large National Trust carpark, then a short stroll onto the beach.

Secret beach location: 50.040081,-5.271528

Housel Bay

Just below the Housel Bay hotel on the very Southern tip of the UK is an intimate bay full of character that is often overlooked. It’s overgrown flights of granite steps meander down the steep cliff past a waterfall and lead you right out onto the strip of fine sand. A good fishing spot, the tides rush around the Lizard Point bringing with it a large variety of sea life. This also means that swimming outside the confines of the bay can be dangerous and sticking close to the shore is advised.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Park at the top of the cliff near the Hotel and locate the winding path that turns into a steep set of steps down to the beach.


Secret beach location: 49.96362,-5.197343

Gunwalloe Cove

Wedged between Dollar Cove and Poldhu is Gunwalloe Cove. As you approach the beach you’ll notice the small chapel and bell tower tucked in underneath the grassy headland down adjacent to the sand. A great spot to swim and surf during the summer months, although on stormier days a powerful beach break can develop at high tide, with wave crashing into dry sand. Plenty of rockpools and enticing crooks and crevices around the periphery of the cove will keep any avid climber come expoerer busy. The grassy headlands guarding the cove make a great sunset watching spot.

Lifeguards on duty during summer.

Dog friendly (October to Easter)

Directions: A National Trust car park can be found 2 minutes from  the beach. Alternatively, park up on the southern headland next to Poldhu and take the stretch of coastal path down to the beach.

Secret beach location: 50.038737,-5.267183

Kynance Cove

Near the southern most point of the UK lies Kynance Cove, a spectacular beach that is an ideal destination for any beach getaway vacation in the south west. A short walk down through the ancient valley reveals a visually stunning array of Serpentine outcrops, harbouring pristine sands and turquoise waters. At low tide the mighty Asparagus Island is accessible, one of the few remaining spots in the UK where wild asparagus still grows. A remarkable feature of Kynance cove is the formidable blowhole, spitting saltwater high into the air at mid-tide, when waves compress air through a narrow split in the rocks. Kynance cove’s serpentine rock formations are identified by its distinctive red and green tones, polished by the sea over thousands of years, are unique to Kynance the Lizard Peninsula. More can be read on the geological history here. Surfing at Kynance is not for the faint hearted, with an amazing wedging wave caused by the constructive interference of secondary waves bouncing off the cliffs from the opposite side of the bay. Be sure to visit the cafe for cream tea.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.


Directions:  Park in the National Trust car park at the top of the cliff and walk down through the valley and the winding steps cut into the cliff onto the beach.

Secret beach location: 49.974396,-5.231338