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The Ultimate Guide to South East Cornwall Beaches

South East Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK.

With miles of unspoiled coastline, crystal-clear waters, and soft golden sands, it’s no wonder why this part of Cornwall is such a popular destination for beach lovers. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 beaches in South East Cornwall that you won’t want to miss.

  1. Whitsand Bay

Whitsand Bay is a hidden gem in South East Cornwall, boasting miles of golden sand and stunning views of the rugged coastline. With crystal-clear waters and plenty of activities available, including surfing and rock pooling, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this beautiful beach. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soak up the sun and breathe in the fresh sea air. Whitsand Bay is also home to several beachside cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views. With its tranquil atmosphere and range of facilities, it’s no wonder that Whitsand Bay is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

So why not pack your swimsuit, grab a towel, and head down to this beautiful beach for a day of fun in the sun?

  1. Lantic Bay

Lantic Bay is truly a hidden gem on the South East coast of Cornwall. This secluded cove boasts crystal-clear waters and soft golden sands, providing the perfect setting for a day of swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding cliffs only add to the natural beauty of the area, making it a must-visit spot for beachgoers seeking peace and tranquillity.

It’s worth noting that there are no facilities at Lantic Bay, so it’s important to come prepared with everything you need for a day at the beach. However, the lack of amenities only adds to the charm of this unspoiled location. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

One of the best things about Lantic Bay is its remote location. Access to the beach requires a bit of a trek down a steep cliff path, which can be challenging for some visitors. However, the effort is well worth it for those seeking a more secluded and peaceful beach experience.

If you’re planning a visit to South East Cornwall, be sure to add Lantic Bay to your list of must-visit beaches. With its crystal-clear waters, soft golden sands, and stunning natural scenery, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.

  1. Polkerris Beach

Polkerris Beach is a true hidden gem of South East Cornwall, offering a peaceful and sheltered spot for a relaxing day at the seaside. Located near the charming town of Fowey, this small yet picturesque beach boasts soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing swim or a fun paddleboarding or kayaking session. The beach is also a great spot for a family picnic, with plenty of grassy areas and benches available. Visitors can make use of the facilities nearby, including toilets and cafes, or take a stroll along the charming Polkerris village with its pretty harbour and charming pubs.

Overall, Polkerris Beach is a must-visit spot for those looking for a tranquil and idyllic beach experience in South East Cornwall.

  1. Readymoney Cove

Located just a short walk from Fowey town center, Readymoney Cove is a hidden gem on the South East coast of Cornwall. The small and secluded beach offers soft golden sands and clear blue waters, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea. The beach is sheltered by cliffs on either side, creating a tranquil cove-like atmosphere that is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the rock pools or take a stroll along the coastal path for breathtaking views of the coastline.

In addition to the natural beauty of the beach, Readymoney Cove also offers a range of facilities including toilets, showers, and a beachside cafe. The cafe serves up delicious food and drinks, making it the perfect spot to relax and refuel after a day in the sun.

Readymoney Cove is also conveniently located near the town of Fowey, which offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the narrow streets and boutique shops to visiting the historic Fowey Castle, there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal town.

So if you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to escape to on your next trip to Cornwall, be sure to add Readymoney Cove to your list. It’s the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and soak up the natural beauty of South East Cornwall.

  1. Portwrinkle Beach

Portwrinkle Beach is a hidden gem located on the Rame Peninsula in South East Cornwall. This small and quiet beach boasts soft golden sands and crystal-clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and rock pooling. The beach is a great spot for families and is surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. Visitors can also take advantage of the facilities nearby, including toilets and cafes. Portwrinkle Beach is a great option for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing day at the seaside.

  1. Talland Bay Beach

Talland Bay Beach is a stunning and secluded beach located on the South East coast of Cornwall, and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. The beach is nestled between the picturesque villages of Polperro and Looe, and offers a unique and peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

With its soft golden sands and clear blue waters, Talland Bay Beach is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. The beach is also known for its excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities, with an abundance of marine life to be seen just beneath the surface.

One of the most striking features of Talland Bay Beach is its stunning backdrop of rugged cliffs and verdant greenery. The beach is surrounded by a beautiful and unspoiled landscape, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the South West Coast Path to take in the breathtaking views.

In addition to its natural beauty, Talland Bay Beach also offers plenty of facilities to make visitors feel comfortable and at home. There are toilets and showers available for public use, as well as beachside cafes and restaurants serving up delicious food and drinks.

For those looking to make a day of it, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the surrounding area. Visitors can take a boat trip from nearby Looe Harbour to explore the beautiful coastline, or venture further inland to discover the charming villages and towns that make up South East Cornwall.

Overall, Talland Bay Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Cornwall’s stunning coastline. With its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning scenery, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind, and make unforgettable memories with loved ones.

  1. Hannafore Beach

Hannafore Beach is a must-visit beach located in the charming town of Looe, in South East Cornwall. With its soft golden sands and clear blue waters, the beach is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Hannafore Beach is known for its excellent water sports opportunities, and visitors can rent paddleboards and kayaks nearby. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can often see fishing boats coming in and out of the harbour.

The beach is surrounded by stunning cliffs, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the South West Coast Path to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. The path offers stunning views of Looe Island and the rugged coastline. Hannafore Beach is also home to the Hannafore Point Hotel, which offers fantastic views of the sea and the beach.

There are plenty of facilities nearby, including toilets and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal at one of the beachside cafes, which offer stunning views of the beach and the sea. The beach is also easily accessible, with a car park located just a short distance away.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, try your hand at water sports, or take a scenic coastal walk, Hannafore Beach is a must-visit destination in South East Cornwall. So pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, and head to Hannafore Beach for a day of fun in the sun.

  1. Seaton Beach

Seaton Beach is a hidden gem tucked away on the South East coast of Cornwall, near the town of Looe. This beautiful and secluded beach is the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. The beach offers soft golden sands and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding cliffs provide a stunning backdrop and there are plenty of coastal walks to explore.

Seaton Beach is also known for its wildlife, with the nearby Seaton Valley Countryside Park offering the chance to spot a range of birds and other wildlife. There are plenty of facilities nearby, including toilets, showers, and beachside cafes.

For those looking to explore further afield, the nearby town of Looe offers plenty of attractions and activities, including boat trips, fishing trips, and a variety of shops and restaurants. There are also plenty of other beaches to discover in the surrounding area, including the popular Polperro Beach and the stunning Talland Bay Beach.

Overall, Seaton Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of South East Cornwall. Whether you’re looking to relax on the soft golden sands or explore the nearby countryside, this stunning beach has something for everyone.

  1. Caerhays Beach

Caerhays Beach is a hidden gem located on the South Coast of Cornwall, boasting crystal clear turquoise waters and soft golden sands. The beach is situated in a secluded cove and is surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere.

In addition to the stunning beach, Caerhays is also home to a beautiful castle and gardens. The castle dates back to the 1800s and is surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens, featuring exotic plants and flowers from all over the world. The gardens are open to visitors throughout the year and offer breathtaking views of the beach and surrounding coastline.

For those looking to grab a bite to eat, the beach cafe offers a great selection of food and drinks, with live music performances throughout the summer season. From fresh seafood to homemade cakes and pastries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Caerhays Beach is the perfect destination for a day out, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun, explore the castle and gardens, and enjoy some delicious food and drinks. Don’t forget to bring your beach towels and sunscreen and get ready to create some unforgettable memories.

  1. Porthpean Beach

Porthpean Beach is a hidden gem located on the south coast of Cornwall, near the town of St Austell. This small and secluded beach is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing day by the sea. With soft golden sands and clear blue waters, Porthpean Beach is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rock pools.

Surrounded by stunning coastal scenery and abundant wildlife, Porthpean Beach is a great place to unwind and reconnect with nature. There are also plenty of facilities nearby, including toilets and cafes, so you can enjoy your day at the beach without having to worry about a thing.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore, Porthpean Beach is the perfect place to do it. So why not pack a picnic and head on down to this idyllic spot on your next trip to South East Cornwall?

In conclusion, South East Cornwall boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the UK, with something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of watersports, rockpooling, or simply relaxing in the sun, you’ll find the perfect beach for you in this region. From the popular family-friendly beaches like Whitsand Bay and Polkerris Beach to the secluded coves of Lantic Bay and Lansallos Beach, South East Cornwall has it all. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen and head to one of these beautiful beaches to experience the natural beauty and charm of this stunning region.

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