Beach

Porthcurnick

Reviews

5.0

(3 reviews)

I really loved this little spot. The beach is lovely and sandy and very gradual entry in. We went about an hour before low tide and it stayed realitively shallow, but enough for us to swim around and over to the rocks. Car park on the main road was super easy but you need coins for the machine (£1 p/h) lots of steps down but there is a slipway the other way not sure how to access that! Couldn’t see any facilities but not needed. A quick dash into the local town for a cuppa after was much needed!

My favourite beach in the world! Been swimming there since I was a toddler. Safe clean beach with great rock pools. It’s a sheltered bay where strong swimmers can swim across to Tatums beach in Portscatho harbour. There’s also great snack spot at the Hidden Hut where you will find delicious things to eat all freshly cooked or you can warm up with a hot chocolate at Tatums on the Portscatho side of the bay.

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About

Porthcurnick is on the south coast of Cornwall. It is a remote sandy beach, approximately 210 metres wide, backed by cliffs and accessed by a footpath. A stream flows across the beach to the sea.

Location

Accessibility

From the main car park in Portscatho you need to walk through the field along the cliff path but there are steps to get onto the beach. From the Rosevine side you can park on the road (fewer spaces) and walk down the slipway to the beach. Depending on sand levels there can be a step down onto the beach so not really suitable for wheelchairs at all. Beach is flat and soft sand so easy access into and out of the water.

What swimmers say

Facilities

Nearby parking Toilets

Activities

Paddling Picnic Dogs Suitable for kids Swimming

Landscape

Has a beach

Help verify this spot

Plan your swim

Before you go

Check tide times before entering. Incoming tides can cut off escape routes.
Watch for rip currents, especially near groynes and headlands
Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
Always swim with others or tell someone your plan
A tow float makes you visible to boats and other water users

Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.

Been here recently?

Share conditions, tips, or hazards to help other swimmers plan their visit to Porthcurnick.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this beach safe for swimming?

Check the Conditions tab for current wave height, swell and wind. Review the Quality tab for the latest Environment Agency classification. Always read recent community reports for local knowledge.

When is the best time to swim here?

Check the Tides tab for today's high and low times. Many coastal spots are best around high tide when there's enough water depth, or during slack water when currents are weakest.

What should I bring?

A tow float for visibility, warm layers for after, and footwear for rocky entries. In colder months, consider a wetsuit, gloves, and a swim cap.