12 of The Best Beaches Near Truro

July 07th, 2023

With almost 300 miles of coastline, there are plenty of must-see beaches to visit on your Cornish break. If you’re staying in Truro, you’re in a great central spot with good access to the county’s north and south coast – but this can mean you end up feeling spoiled for choice!

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite beaches that are a short drive away from our luxury holiday village in Cornwall to ensure you can make the most of Cornwall’s stunning shores.

What are the Best Cornish Beaches Near Truro?

• Perranporth Beach
• Porthtowan Beach
• Trevaunance Cove Beach
• Gyllyngvase Beach
• Chapel Porth Beach
• Swanpool Beach
• Crantock Beach
• Carne Beach
• Maenporth Beach
• Porthcurnick Beach
• Portreath Beach
• Church Cove

Perranporth Beach

As one of the best-known beaches across Cornwall, Perranporth beach has it all, and it’s easy to see why so many rave about it!

The huge expanse of sand and sea makes it ideal for all beach activities, so you’ll see everything from surfers catching waves to horses riding across the golden stretches. Framed by impressive sand dunes, there is also plenty for wildlife lovers to discover, with a plethora of beautiful butterflies and lizards to spot.

Perranporth is also famous for being the only beach in the UK to have a bar actually on it! Celebrate the sunny weather with a pint or two and catch a local band (and some famous faces) performing at this beautiful spot by the shore.

How far is Perranporth Beach from Truro: 9.6 miles.

Porthtowan Beach

Found within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Porthtowan’s golden coastline, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waves, truly lives up to the accolade.

With plenty of sand and a play park at the top of the beach, Porthtowan is a favourite for families. It is also one of the top spots in Cornwall for surfers.

As a Blue Flag Award winner, you’ll find a host of great, well-managed beachside amenities, with the beachside Blue Bar being an ever-popular spot for enjoying a sip by the sea!

How far is Porthtowan Beach from Truro: 9.8 miles.

Trevaunance Cove Beach

Located near the village of St Agnes, Trevaunance Cove Beach is another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With a sandy cover sheltered by rugged cliffs and boasting crystalline waters, it’s not hard to see why this beach is a particularly popular spot, especially for families during the summer months.

The St Agnes Heritage Coast in northern Cornwall offers some particularly dramatic views, and this sheltered cove makes the perfect base to appreciate all that this portion of the coast is famous for. The beach and local villages are rich in history, with a heritage in 19th-century mining and roots that go much further back to a Bronze Age settlement.

With rock pools, good surf, a beach shop, cafe and pub (not to mention all the quaint local shops in the nearby village), Trevaunance Cove has everything you need for a great day at the beach.

How far is Trevaunance Cove Beach from Truro: 10.3 miles.

Gyllyngvase Beach

Also one of the most popular beaches in the Falmouth area, Gyllyngvase is ideal for those who want a classic beach experience! The stretches of soft golden sands are ideal for relaxing on, and the waves are perfect for a whole host of water-based activities.

Why not hire a paddleboard and take to the waves before relaxing on a sandy strip for a seaside barbeque?

Gyllyngvase has also received a Blue Flag Award, highlighting it as an outstanding beach of cleanliness and safety.

How far is Gyllyngvase Beach from Truro: 11.5 miles.

Chapel Porth Beach

Owned by the National Trust, Chapel Porth is located on the northern coast, near the village of St Agnes. An expanse of golden sand meets the intense salty waves on this Cornish beach, making for fantastic surf.

When the tide is out, there are plenty of exposed rock pools and fascinating caves to explore – at low tide, you can also walk over to neighbouring Porthtowan beach. This area is great for coastal walks too, with the ruins of the Wheal Coates tin mine perched dramatically atop the cliffs.

Chapel Porth is perhaps most famous for its inventive ‘hedgehog ice cream’; a scoop of classic Cornish ice cream topped with clotted cream and sprinkled with crushed hazelnuts!

How far is Chapel Porth Beach from Truro: 11.5 miles

Swanpool Beach

Another peaceful little cove, Swanpool is just outside of Falmouth, making it a great place to visit if you’re heading off on a Falmouth day trip. The sand and shingle beach meets gentle, azure waves, surrounded by tranquil views.

The nearby water sports centre makes it a good spot for those wanting to try their hand at kayaking or sailing. And the outdoor Swanpool Beach cafe provides the ideal base to recharge after a day out in the sea.

Dogs are banned from this beach between July 1st and August 31st.

How far is Swanpool Beach from Truro: 11.8 miles.

Crantock Beach

If you’re heading up to Newquay, you’ll want to stop by Crantock Beach, which is a picture-perfect sandy beach with golden sands, rolling dunes and a grassy plateau that’s home to a plethora of wildlife.

Crantock marks where the Gannel estuary joins the sea and is a great family-friendly beach, with plenty of water-based activities to enjoy, along with rock pools and large expanses of sand perfect for sandcastles. It is all dog-friendly all year round.

This beach is owned by the National Trust and has various nearby facilities, including various cafes and pubs in the village, parking and toilets.

How far is Crantock Beach from Truro: 12.2 miles.

Carne Beach

Another National Trust beach, this popular beach sits on the gorgeous Roseland Peninsula, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a picturesque seaside stroll. As Carne is dog-friendly all year round, it’s the perfect beach for all the family!

As a particularly sunny spot, Carne beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming and rock pooling. You can also cool down afterwards with a delicious Cornish ice cream from one of the vans that regularly frequent the beachfront.

How far is Carne Beach from Truro: 13 miles.

Maenporth Beach

A perfect beach for families, Maenporth beach gently slopes into a shallow shore that is ideal for kids who love to paddle.

The beach boasts some incredible scenery, with views out over the Bay to Pendennis Castle and St Anthony Head. The great water conditions make this another popular space for swimming and watersports.

How far is Maenporth Beach from Truro: 13.3 miles.

Porthcurnick Beach

Just down the coast from Carne is Porthcurnick Beach, a wide sandy spot nestled between rock pools and sweeping cliffs. The surrounding coastal footpaths make for a great adventure and unbeatable views, leading you to the various stunning beaches along this stretch.

Dogs are welcome at this bay all year round and are sure to enjoy the splendid expanse of beach just as much as you. Once you’ve spent the day exploring and relishing the calm, turquoise waters, head to the beachside cafe, The Hidden Hut, for some characteristically good Cornish grub.

How far is Porthcurnick Beach from Truro: 14.2 miles.

Portreath Beach

With two surf shops sitting on the seafront, it’s pretty clear that Portreath is the place to go if you’re into catching waves.

The soft sand at the top of the beach is loved by families, making this a great location for all. There are also plenty of things along the front to keep everyone entertained all day long, with an amusement arcade, café, restaurant and takeaway.

The village is just a short walk away from the beach – there, you can find a tearoom and no less than three pubs, perfect for taking in the gorgeous seaside views with a pint!

How far is Portreath Beach from Truro: 14.7 miles.

Church Cove

Although a little further away from Truro than our other mentions, Church Cove is well worth the visit. Also known as Gunwalloe, this little beach is renowned for the tiny church, St Wynwallow, that sits almost on the sand.

When making your way down the beach, you’ll find a collection of quaint seaside cottages and fishing boats to complete the serene picture.

More recently, the beach has become famous for its scenes in Poldark, where it became a filming location for ship-wreck and smuggling scenes in the show.

How far is Church Cove from Truro: 22.3 miles.

Can’t wait to feel the sand beneath your feet and sea breeze on your face? Check out our current offers and deals to book your Cornwall break!

Check out our ultimate guide to Truro for even more recommendations for your stay.

Image Credit: Visit Cornwall

5 Sports to Enjoy in Cornwall

October 12th, 2020

Whether you love reading on the beach or running on it, Cornwall has plenty of activities on offer amongst beautiful scenery!

 

If you’re a particularly active person in search of adventure sports, you will be pleased to know that Cornwall is a prime spot for sports activities, especially watersports! We take a look at Cornwall’s top activities and the best locations to experience them.

 

After an active day, what better way to unwind than in one of our luxury hot tub cottages Cornwall? The Valley specialises in beautiful self-catering holiday cottages nestled in peaceful countryside. A short distance from exhilarating attractions, including beaches and heritage sites, it is ideal for those who love to explore!

 

 

Hiking and Running

 

Cornwall is inundated with vast and stunning countryside and the county is most famous for being home to the South West Coast Path. The path outlines the South West coast, including the whole of Cornwall, starting in Minehead, Devon, and ending in Poole Harbour.

 

There are various walks you can experience throughout the path ,and you can do as much or as little as you want.

 

Some of our favourite walks include The Lizard Peninsula, Pentire Point & The Rumps and Talland Bay & Looe.

 

If you are an avid runner, the path is ideal for those who want to put on your running shoes and experience all it has to offer at a faster pace!

 

 

Cycling

 

If you want to travel further and faster, cycling might be the perfect sport to experience while staying in Cornwall. The county is home to plenty of cycling trails, and many are traffic-free.

 

Located near St Austell, The Clay Trails consist of five pathways which showcase the dramatic scenery belonging to the area. Visitors can enjoy them by walking, cycling and horse riding!

 

Another great place to explore by bike is Seaton Valley Countryside Park. The trial explores the countryside, riverside and the coast. It is perfect for spotting wildlife, including dormice, kingfishers and butterflies!

 

Cornish Hurling

 

Not to be confused with Irish hurling, Cornish Hurling is a unique sport belonging to the county.

 

It is one of Cornwall’s most original customs and has a history dating back to about one thousand years ago. It is quite a rough game where opposing teams try to keep the possession of a silver-coated ball.

 

It is now only played once a year in St Columb Major and St Ives. You can see locals play at the St Ives Feast, which is an annual event on the first Monday after 3rd February.

 

 

Rock Climbing

 

If you want to try something a bit daring, rock climbing could be the ideal activity for you!

 

Cornwall has plenty of opportunities to try rock climbing on its dramatic cliffs! At the Lizard Peninsula, one of Cornwall’s most stunning coastlines, an adventure company called Lizard Adventure work with the National Trust to provide such experiences.

 

Here, you can try your hand at rock climbing, coasteering, kayaking and paddleboarding! Their range of rock climbing programmes provide anything from introductions for beginners to guidance for experienced climbers transitioning from wall to outdoor cliff, and there is something for everyone to try, no matter your age or ability!

 

 

Surfing

 

Arguably, the UK’s most associated county for surfing if you want to ride some waves, there are few better places to start than in Cornwall!

 

Newquay is regarded as the surf mecca for the activity, with a variety of beaches and surf schools in the town and surrounding it. Sennen Cove is another popular spot which is favoured due to its sheltered beach.

 

For those just starting, a beginners lesson is thoroughly recommended as it will provide you with invaluable advice as well as teach you the basics of beach safety.

 

That concludes our top pick of watersports in Cornwall! Don’t forget to check out others such as bodyboarding, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and coasteering! Cornwall provides a whole host of activities while being surrounded by some of Britain’s most inspiring scenery!

 

What are you hoping to master on your next visit to Cornwall? Why not let us know on our social media channels!

Guide to Seaside Sports in Cornwall

June 15th, 2018

As a coastal county, water sports are one of the main activities enjoyed in Cornwall. While everyone knows about the surf in Cornwall, there are plenty of other seaside sports suitable for all abilities. Here are some of the best activities to try around the Cornish coast.

 

Sailing

When the weather is a little warmer or the sea a little calmer, and you don’t want to do something too exhilarating, opt for a gentle sail across the sea. There are plenty of boat trips available around the coast, but if you know how to sail or are lucky enough to have your own boat, then Falmouth is certainly the place to go. With the famous Falmouth Harbour, the third deepest natural harbour in the world, as well as the delightful Fal River, there are plenty of sailing adventures to be found! If you’re up for a bigger adventure, then heading off to the Isles of Scilly makes for a beautiful trip.

 

Canoeing and Kayaking

As well as at the beaches, water makes its way throughout the whole of Cornwall through a series of stunning rivers, lakes and estuaries. Hopping in a canoe or kayak and spending the afternoon paddling down the stream is the perfect way to explore the gorgeous Cornish countryside in a relaxing way. Alternatively, row your way out to sea and you may even be able to get up close with the local wildlife, including seabirds, seals and even dolphins!

 

Diving

You shouldn’t be limited to just the top of the water; try going under it too! As one of the top diving spots in the UK, the Cornish waters are packed full of marine life and shipwrecks ready to explore. There are many diving schools around the coast to choose from, although Falmouth Bay and the Lizard are incredible locations, as they sit either side of the vibrant Manacles Reef, where over 100 shipwrecks have occurred. An impressive range of sea life inhabits the coastline, including octopus, anemones, dogfish, seals, dolphins and even sea turtles!

 

Bodyboarding

An alternative to surfing for those not quite confident to stand up yet! Get up close with the waves on a bodyboard for some easy surf fun. Bodyboarding is a little easier than surfing, meaning you’ll be catching waves a lot quicker, which is good if you’re only visiting Cornwall for a holiday and don’t have the time to take up lots of surfing lessons!

 

Paddle Boarding

Stand Up Paddle Boarding, also known as SUP Boarding, is a water sport that is rapidly growing in popularity throughout Cornwall (and around the world!). If the name didn’t give it away, this activity involves standing on a board and paddling through the sea with a long paddle. Stand up paddle boarding is considered to be one of the best low-impact full body workouts out there, so if you’re missing the gym or trying to burn off all the ice cream you’ve enjoyed, this is your best bet!

 

Water Skiing

Water skiing will see you skimming across the top of the sea, pulled along by a speedy motorboat. Although water skiing can be a competitive sport, it’s all a lot of fun and can be enjoyed by skiers of all skill levels. You can ride the waves on two skis, one ski, on a kneeboard, wakeboard or even no board if you are brave! You don’t need to own your own boat either, as the numerous activity centres, boat rental companies and similar facilities will have everything covered.

 

Surfing

We couldn’t write about seaside sports in Cornwall without mentioning surfing; the sport the coastal county is renowned for. As the go-to surfing spot in the UK, there are hundreds of places around the coast that you can surf at. The best-known of these surfing locations is Fistral Beach in Newquay, which is famous for its great surf. With so many beaches perfect for surfing, it is no surprise that there are plenty of surf schools across the county, meaning you won’t be short of instructors to help you catch some waves!

 

If you’d like to try out some water sports in Cornwall, or even just to relax on the beach, luxury Falmouth holidays could be just the answer!

Sign up for the all-women’s Surf and Fitness weekend with pro-surfer Tehillah McGuiness in Newquay

July 17th, 2015

Visiting Cornwall is known for its many alluring features, and venturing out from our Cornwall cottages to experience the joys of surfing the waves on local beaches is certainly high on the list. If this is the sort of thing you and your family are keen to try your hand at then you might be interested to know that pro-surfer Tehillah McGuiness is returning to Cornwall with her surf tour next month, and this time it’s Newquay.

 

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