Perfect for clearing your mind, stretching your legs and breathing in deep lungfuls of invigorating sea air, the longest beaches in Cornwall have a magnetic appeal. Whether you are exercising your energetic dog, looking for somewhere to go for an uninterrupted jog or simply want to walk and walk, there’s something about the promise of miles of empty sands that appeals to us all.
Giving you an abundance of space to roam year-round whilst enjoying some of the most incredible scenery in the UK, here are the longest beaches in Cornwall:
Carlyon Bay
In the heart of St Austell Bay, Carylon Bay comprises three beaches: Crinnis, Shorthorn and Polgaver. Joining together to form one mighty 2-mile stretch, it is an excellent location for winter strolls and summer fun, with many events taking place there in the warmer months. Made up of powdered shell and coarse grains of grey quartz and tourmaline from the area’s old mines, the beach has an almost iridescent quality that is quite beautiful in the sunshine.
Gwithian Towans
Cornwall’s biggest beach, Gwithian Towans is located between Hayle and Godrevy Head. An enormous 3-mile sweep, this amazing beach is very popular but, thanks to its sheer size, never feels overly crowded. Not just a favourite amongst walkers, its exposure to the Atlantic’s heaving swells and prevailing winds creates a surfer’s paradise, with many salt-tousled boarders flocking to the waves. There are also great wildlife-spotting opportunities with nearby colonies of common seals and seabirds.
Long Rock
Long Rock beach is part of a long sandy stretch that runs from Marazion to Penzance in West Cornwall. A favourite amongst locals, this beach is often overlooked but is a great choice for lazy hours by the sea. Welcoming dogs all year, it is particularly loved by tufty-pawed pups who can freely bounce along the water’s edge, chasing frisbees and letting off steam. And, if you feel like a refreshing dip on a tranquil day, this is a great swimming beach too with sheltered, shallow waters.
Perranporth
At the base of a popular seaside town is Perranporth beach. Only 1 mile from the St Agnes Heritage Coastline and a stone’s throw from Newquay, it’s an easily accessible beach that attracts visitors and locals alike from all over Cornwall. Another of the longest beaches in Cornwall, its key attraction lies in its size, encompassing around 2 miles of golden sand. Backed by the town with a huge number of amenities, home to abundant space and dog-friendly year-round, this is a beach that’ll quickly win you over.
Sandymouth
The longest of Bude's beaches and one of the largest in Cornwall, Sandymouth Beach is another whopper at 2-miles long. Lying between the two headlands of Steeple Point and Menachurch Point (also known more romantically as the Dragons Head), it invites for drawn-out walks by glistening seas. For the best walking conditions, head over at low tide when the waters drop away from their pebbly crown and reveal cushiony expanses of powder-fine sand.
Watergate Bay
Watergate Bay’s gorgeous beach is located around 3 miles from the vibrant seaside hub of Newquay. Boasting a large expanse of fine, honey-coloured sand, it enjoys an imposing backdrop, tucked at the base of steep, craggy cliffs. At over 2 miles long, it is a popular destination for long walks and also hosts a series of events throughout the year. To spice up your visit, you can also join in with local activity centres or go for a bite to eat at one of the nearby eateries overlooking the bay.
Whitsand Bay
In the running for Cornwall’s longest beach, Whitsand Bay extends from Rame Head to Portwrinkle. Reaching nearly 4 miles in length at low tide when several smaller coves merge together, this beach has plenty of space for dreamy walks by the sea. While access to the beach is a little tricky due to its steep cliff paths (the easiest way to get down is from the car park near Tregantle’s active military fort), this only serves to deter the crowds and means the beach is often quiet. Just be aware that access is prohibited when the red flags are flown from the fort and that swimming here is not advised due to strong currents.
Widemouth Bay
A long, picturesque bay 3 miles south of Bude, Widemouth Bay in North Cornwall exudes wild, remote vibes. Often skipped in favour of smaller beaches closer to the town, it simply begs to be explored with 2 miles of sand. The kind of beach that always has a peaceful corner available, it is as perfect for spreading out on a towel in summer to laze under blue skies as it is for wrapping up in winter and treading footprints along the shore.
Feeling inspired for a beach break? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Cornwall here.
