Chapel Porth

Nestled at the bottom of a mining valley in the heart of the North Cornwall Coast lies Chapel Porth, an intimate sandy cove at high tide that grows into a huge open expanse of sand as the tide drops. These open sands stretch from Lushingtons at the very southern end of Porthtowan beach, all the way up the isolated peninsula of St. Agnes Head. Due to its orientation, Chapel Porth is fully exposed to the full force of the Atlantic and the seas are often rough during the winter months. Fun sandbars can be found just to the north of the cove at low tide and good waves can be had. Take care not to get cut off by the tide and check tide tables before setting out.

Lifeguards are on duty seasonally.

Dog friendly (October to Easter)

Directions: Drive towards St. Agnes and take a left at the roundabout just before entering the village. Follow this round down the valley and to a small carpark right on the beach front.

Secret beach location: 50.301087,-5.235758

Porthcadjack Cove

Porthcadjack cove is situated a stone's throw west of Portreath along the north coast of Cornwall. Due to its locations, very few people actually visit the cove with the majority being walkers tackling the coastal path. Samphire Island can be seen, sitting just off the beach and can be accessed on extreme spring low tides.

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Park at Portreath and take a gentle walk westward, along the coastal path, past Ralph's Cupboard ( a large collapsed cave) and down a zigzag path to the cove.

Secret beach location: 50.25482,-5.310109

Basset's Cove

A small rocky/sandy beach at the foot of a precarious and winding footpath, Basset's Cove is a quiet niche hidden along one of the busier stretches of the Cornish coast. Named after the well known family that were responsible for the creation of Tehidy House and Park, Basset's Cove is inaccessible at high water. Clean waves can be found in a prevailing southwesterly but the sandbanks rarely form properly, making it a fickle spot for surfing but worth checking if passing. Seals are spotted regularly, with seasonal breeding grounds in many of the coves along this coastline. 

No lifeguards on duty.

Dog friendly.

Directions: Heading along the Hayle/Portreath road, turn down onto a small unmarked lane heading north. Park at the top off the cliff and the slippery footpath down to the water is easy to spot.

Secret beach location: 50.250031,-5.314894