Nanjizal Bay (also known as Mill Bay or Nanjizel) is a remote, dramatic cove on the far west tip of Cornwall, famous for its “Song of the Sea” tidal pool/arch.
It has no facilities or lifeguard cover, is reached on foot from the South West Coast Path (Land’s End or Porthgwarra are common start points), and is best visited at low tide if you want to see the Song of the Sea.
Image Credit: Mill Bay seen from the coast path by Rod Allday
Where is Nanjizal Beach?
Nanjizal beach sits on the south-west coast of Cornwall in the civil parish of St Levan, about a mile south-east of Land’s End. It’s a narrow valley/cove facing the Atlantic with steep granite cliffs, boulder fields and rock pools.
Why Visit Nanjizal Beach?
Nanjizal Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach in Cornwall. Full of natural stone sculptures, caves and freshwater waterfalls, it’s a truly stunning location that is well worth the trip.
There is superb coastal scenery, rock-pooling, birdwatching and wild-swimming (for experienced/confident swimmers and only when conditions are suitable).
The most notable natural feature is the “Song of the Sea”, a narrow slit/arch in the rock that fills at high tide and makes a stunning turquoise pool at low tide. There are also named rock features (e.g. Diamond Horse) and visible shipwreck remains at low water near the headlands.
Nanjizal Beach Song of the Sea Cave
On the south side, you’ll find the magnificent rock arch called ‘Zawn Pyg’, also known as ‘Song of the Sea’.
The Song of the Sea Cave is a striking natural archway carved into the granite cliffs by centuries of Atlantic waves. At low tide, the cave reveals a long, narrow channel where sunlight beams through the opening, lighting the water in shimmering shades of turquoise and jade. The effect can be magical, especially on calm, bright days, when the water is clear and the rocks glow beneath the surface.
The cave has become a favourite spot for wild swimmers and photographers. For swimmers, it offers a sheltered pool-like space that feels almost otherworldly. However, it’s important to note that the pool connects directly to the ocean, and conditions can change rapidly. Swimmers should only enter in calm seas, ideally at low tide, and always with a companion.
Many describe it as one of Cornwall’s hidden gems, still relatively unknown compared to nearby beaches such as Porthcurno or Sennen.
Nanjizal Beach Diamond Horse
Another striking feature of Nanjizal is the Diamond Horse, a rock formation that, when viewed from the right angle, resembles the head of a horse rising from the sea. This nickname is also due to it having a quartz vein running through it, which sparkles in the sun. You can find this structure on the north side of the cliff.
The Diamond Horse is a favourite subject for photographers and is best seen at mid to low tide, when the changing light and sea conditions highlight its unique shape.
Alongside the Song of the Sea cave, the Diamond Horse adds to Nanjizal’s reputation as one of Cornwall’s most atmospheric and visually dramatic coves. It’s another reminder of how the power of the ocean and the rugged Cornish coastline combine to create natural sculptures unlike anywhere else.
Shipwrecks at Nanjizal
The rugged shoreline of the Cornish coast has laid claim to many a ship over the years, and Nanjizal Bay is no exception! There are recorded shipwrecks in the area, such as the City of Cardiff cargo steamer that ran aground in 1912. Luckily, no lives were lost, but you can see evidence of the shipwreck below Carn Cravah, along the right side of the bay, at low tide.
What Does Nanjizal Mean?
Nanjizal originates from the Cornish “Porth Nansusel”, which means “Cove of the Howling Valley”.
Wildlife at Nanjizal Beach
There is plenty of wildlife to see, making it an excellent spot for bird watchers; Chiffchaff, Whitethroat and Blackcap breed here. There are also a few large rock pools in the area that house all manner of sea life.
Image Credit: Lower Bosistow Cliff path approaching Nanjizal Beach by Tom Page
How to Get to Nanjizal Beach?
When we say secluded, we’re not exaggerating! Nanjizal Beach is about an hour’s walk from the nearest road or car park, but we promise it’s worth the journey!
There is no road access to the beach itself. You must walk via the South West Coast Path or minor footpaths. The best access routes:
- From Land’s End: roughly a 30–45 minute walk (about 1–1.5 miles) south along the South West Coast Path. Straightforward but involves cliff paths and some uneven ground.
- From Porthgwarra: a ~40–50 minute walk north on the South West Coast Path (Porthgwarra has a small car park and a café).
To access the beach, you’ll need to walk down a steep wooden stairway and/or rock scramble down to the sand and boulders. The journey is not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or people with mobility issues. Wear sturdy footwear (you’ll be on uneven boulders and rock pools).
Nanjizal Beach Parking
There is no parking at Nanjizal. The nearest options are to:
- Park at Porthgwarra car park (pay & display) and walk up the coast path.
- Park at Land’s End car park (paid; can be busy and more expensive in peak season) and walk south.
- Some local country lanes/laybys exist further inland (very limited and sometimes private); don’t block access or farm gates.
Facilities at Nanjizal Beach
As far as facilities, there are none. What makes Nanjizal Beach so magical is how unspoilt it is. It’s all part of the charm.
There are no toilets, no cafés and no lifeguards at Nanjizal itself. Make sure to bring water, food, a small first-aid kit and a plastic bag for rubbish. The nearest public conveniences are at Land’s End or Porthgwarra (but check opening times).
Is Nanjizal Beach Dog Friendly?
Another brilliant aspect of this hidden gem is that dogs are allowed all year round! They’ll get a good walk reaching the beach, and by the time you’ve made it back to your car, your furry friend will have dried off after the inevitable splash in the shallows!
Nanjizal Beach Tide Times
Tides are very important here. The Song of the Sea pool only reveals itself and is swimmable at lower tides, and the cove connects to the open Atlantic, meaning strong currents and big swells can reach inside. Nanjizal is unlifeguarded and can be dangerous for inexperienced swimmers. Check tide times and the RNLI safety guidance before entering the water; only swim when conditions are calm and go with a buddy.
When is the Best Time to Visit Nanjizal Beach?
- Low tide is the window when the Song of the Sea is visible and swimmable.
- Early morning or late afternoon light gives the best photos and fewer crowds.
- Avoid visits in stormy weather (big swell can render the cove unsafe).
- Spring and early autumn often give good light and quieter paths.
Nearby Places & Things to Combine With Your Visit
- Land’s End – iconic viewpoint, visitor centre & car park. Good starting point for the coast path to Nanjizal.
- Porthgwarra – small, pretty cove with a cafe, pay-and-display car park and direct coast-path access to Nanjizal. Great for a post-walk snack.
- Porthcurno & Minack Theatre – spectacular cliffside open-air theatre and a beautiful sandy beach; worth a detour if you’re in the area (Minack tickets apply). ~2 miles/short drive from Nanjizal on footpaths/coast path.
- Sennen Cove – surf beach and village amenities a short drive away; useful if you need shops.
Nanjizal Beach Filming Location
Nanjizal beach has been used as a filming location, most notably in the 1966 Doctor Who episode ‘The Smugglers’, where the TARDIS appears on the beach.
Keeping Safe at Nanjizal Beach
There are some important considerations to keep in mind for your visit to Nanjizal Beach.
- No lifeguards – if you go in the water, you do so at your own risk. Currents can be deceptive. RNLI advice: always check tide times and local conditions. If you want to swim the Song of the Sea, go only when the sea is calm, at low tide, and with a competent swim partner. The pool is beautiful, but it connects to the Atlantic; conditions change fast.
- Leave no trace – take all rubbish home, keep dogs under control and avoid disturbing nesting birds (spring/summer).
- Parking & local access – respect private land, do not block gates or track access, and use official car parks where provided (Porthgwarra, Land’s End).
- Come prepared – Wear good shoes, bring a picnic and give yourself time to enjoy coastal views rather than rushing in and out.
If you’re looking for a quiet, secluded and dog-friendly beach while on your holiday, then Nanjizal Beach might just be the location for you! Especially if you’re staying in one of our dog-friendly cottages in Truro, Cornwall.