Polzeath Beach
Polzeath is considered one of the best surfing beaches in Cornwall. It’s manned by lifeguards in the summer months and is also Blue Flag rated which means it’s particularly clean.
There are restaurants and surf shops peppered along the beachside including one of our favourite restaurants, The Waterfront.
Budding surfers are given a 10% discount on lessons as guests of The Olde House when booking with Wavehunters.
Parking: Pay & display is available on the beach & the cliffs.
Dog friendly: Seasonal dog ban. Check Cornwall Council website for details.
Daymer Bay
Daymer Bay is a large sandy beach which is perfect for a family trip to the seaside. Found between Polzeath and Rock, its gently sloping sands mean the water is shallow and gentle waves lap the shore, great for little ones who enjoy a splash about. The rock pools are home to lots of little sea creatures, which inquisitive kids will enjoy.
For the energetic, Brae Hill overlooks Daymer Bay and offers a challenging hike with rewarding views over Padstow and the Camel Estuary. Visitors can also follow the coast path to Polzeath or Rock.
Parking: Pay and display parking
Dog friendly: All year round.
Rock beach
Rock is the sailing centre of North Cornwall and is also amongst the more popular beaches for windsurfing and water skiing. Tuition is available daily and is suitable for all ages.
There are several walks and footpaths around the beautiful village of Rock. One of the paths leads to the quaint St. Enodoc’s Church which is around 800 years old and found next to the rolling dunes of Daymer Bay, which famously submerged the church in the 18th Century.
A ferry across the estuary to Padstow leaves on a regular basis from Rock and there are several cafés and restaurants within a short distance of the beach.
Parking: Car parking is available in the village & there is a pay & display car park near the ferry slipway.
Dog friendly: Dogs are welcome all year round.
Lifeguards: No lifeguard cover
Port Quin Bay
A peaceful sheltered inlet on an outstanding stretch of unspoilt coast. Port Quin was once a bustling fishing port on the rugged north Cornwall coast. Today, Port Quin is a peaceful, sheltered inlet. Surrounded by spectacular coastline, Port Quin Bay sweeps westwards towards the distinctive headland of the Rumps.
Take a walk west from Port Quin & you’ll find Epphaven Cove and alongside Lundy Bay, sitting in a secluded valley thriving with rich flora and fauna. This tranquil spot is perfect for bird watching and is a haven for butterflies and wild flowers. Limited parking.