Originally uploaded by tightwadcornwall
I think it goes without saying that Cornwall is surrounded by some of the best beaches in England (I know, I know, I’m slightly biased). My personal favourite is actually just off the end of Cornwall on Tresco (one of the Isles of Scilly). However, here are a few of the beaches which I have frequented as both a child and an adult. There are many others, but these represent a variety of beaches from both coasts. I know this goes without saying, but whichever you choose to visit, check tide times before leaving.
Godrevy (North coast) Travelling time: 30 minutes
Run by the National Trust, Godrevy is both a rocky and a sandy beach – great for all the family really! It is on the St Ives bay, and from it you can see Gwithian, Hayle Towans, Carbis Bay and St Ives. Above the beach is a coastal path that gives views over toward the Godrevy Lighthouse. Facilities amount to a cafe and toilets, and the odd ice cream van. The car park costs £4.50 in high season (free to NT members). Money saving potential here is high, as there is very little to spend on (especially if you are a NT member) nonetheless there is plenty of beach/rock pools/etc to keep the kids occupied.
Gwithian (North coast) Travelling time: 25mins
For a less cluttered and more meandering beach experience visit Gwithian. It is actually connected to Godrevy, however unlike Godrevy there is no car park and there are no facilities. So, on the minus side there is a longish walk across the sand dunes to the beach and there is nothing except the beach. However on the plus side Gwithian is generally ignored by the tourist population, so there is no fight for a decent spot or chance to over spend on stuff nobody really needs.
Marazion (South Coast) Travelling time: 5 mins.
Marazion is probably best known for St Michael’s Mount (National Trust), which is a bit of a shame as the beach itself is lovely and the town an interesting one to look around. Facilities include toilets, a shop , funfair and park in or near the car park, although within the village there are additionally cafes, restaurants, galleries, shops and a post office. The beach is very popular and can become crowded, but there is plenty to do there – at low tide you can enjoy the golden sands, climb rocks, walk the cobbled path across to the Mount or go into the village. Money saving central it ain’t, but it is still a great day out. Parking is in the Folly Field car park on the way into the town, and costs (I think) £4 for the day.
Praa Sands (South Coast) Travelling time: 20mins
Another beautiful beach full of golden sands. In summer it is peaceful although overcrowded as it, like Marazion, boasts a wide range of facilities in the village it clings onto. There are toilets, cafes, restaurants and shops. When I was a chld there used to be a fabulous beach shop/cafe which sold all kinds of overpriced beach stuff and was shaped like a sand castle. Sadly it is no longer, a particularly vicious winter storm finished it off a few years ago. Parking is to the west of the beach. I’m afraid I don’t know the price – please let me know if you do!
