West Cornwall : Porthtowan Beach

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Porthtowan beach is a beautiful large version of Portreath with acres of golden sand exposed at low tide by the receding turquoise water. When the swell is up it produces high quality, heavy, hollow waves, with the higher part of the beach sheltered by the headlands from the worst of any westerly winds. Care should be taken surfing on this beach because at high tide the rips can be quite intense, especially on big days. At low tide the beach opens up into an enormous expanse of sand running north up towards St Agnes so you will not be crowded for room either on the beach or in the water.

The village has all the facilities you will need within 500m of the beach, including a range of ice cream parlours and sports equipment hire shops. For the après surf there are a couple of good pubs and a nightclub. This is a great self-contained spot with everything you would want from a day at the beach.

Details
Driving Access: Minor roads for short distance from B3277
Car Park spaces: 320
Price: Less than £5
Beach facilities: Public toilets & lifeguard
Beach type: Fine golden sand
Break type: Beach
Pub: The Unicorn, Shakers (nightclub)
Sort of wave: Plunging
Peaks: Various beach
Left/Right: Both
Offshore wind direction: South easterly
Local highlights: Cliff top walks and the views
National Trust: No

Ratings
Ability: Novice - Legend
Kids: 1 - Light house and walks
Other stuff: 2 - Pubs and cafes
Access: 3 - Short sand path walk
Urban proximity: Village life
Water quality: Pristine - Blue flag beach

  Accomodation:

Book local holiday cottage*

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