The jewel in the crown of Newquay’s beaches – expanses of golden sand, rolling waves, alfresco dining and beach shopping at their best.
Porthpean is a sheltered beach, with rocky pools at its southern end and cliffs adjoining three of its boundaries. The beach is regarded as being the local family beach. The cliffs to the east are extensively used by nesting birds.
Rocks must be negotiated before you reach the large sandy beach and high tide covers the beach completely. Swimming and surfing are not recommended either side of high tide and nearby signs warn of the dangers. The coastal path north leads to Tintagel and makes a wonderful scenic walk.
The beach is west facing ideal for sunbathing. It is located south of Constantine Bay. There is plenty of parking and the nearest village, St Merryn, is only 10 minutes drive. There are beautiful coastal walks through the dunes and along the rugged cliffs.
The small cove is within easy reach of Falmouth and is reasonable safe for swimming. There is a footpath around Swanpool Lake to the Cornwall Wildlife Trust Nature reserve beyond. There is a coastal path leading to Gyllingvase beach. Swanpool lake is good for birds.
