South Cornwall : Porthcurno Beach

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Porthcurno beach is such an absolutely idyllic spot it could easily be in a far more tropical clime. Pothcurno has the sort of sand that you find in coral infested waters and in the summer you wont need more than board shorts / bikini and a rash vest at this top spot. As the tide drops more of the bay is exposed and more peaks develop, with both lefts and rights working on a big swell. The swell here can generate challenging plunging waves providing a suitable playground for surfers of all abilities.

Porthcurno is surrounded on both sides by high cliffs with Minack Open Air Theatre sitting on the right hand side. The water quality is incredible and you may well see Basking Sharks in the water with you - but don't freak out they only eat plankton and wont be interested as you pick off quality, glass like waves.

Beyond the beach there is a surprising amount to do at this little beach, with a Museum to the first transatlantic telegraph cable laid to the USA and the Minack Open Air Theatre on the cliff top. Land's End is just around the corner aswell, which just adds to this great location.

Details
Driving Access: Steep approach via minor road straight up to car park
Car Park spaces: 280
Price: Less than £5
Beach facilities: Public toilets in car park, beach café & lifeguards
Beach type: Fine white sand
Break type: Beach
Pub: Cable station Inn
Sort of wave: Plunging
Peaks: Shifting beach
Left/Right: Both
Offshore wind direction: North easterly
Local highlights: Minack Theatre, Telegraph Museum
National Trust: No

Ratings
Ability: Novice - Legend
Kids: 2 - Porthcurno Telegraph Museum, walks
Other stuff: 2 - Minack cliff top open air theatre, Telegraph Museum
Access: 2 - 200m walk to beach
Urban proximity: Village life
Water quality: Good

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