South West Cornwall offers fabulous sandy beaches within easy reach
We couldn’t possibly tell you about all of the great places to visit in Cornwall as there are just too many! Porthleven is a great base from which to explore the south west of Cornwall, with the south west coast path, the UKs longest waymarked public footpath right on the doorstep.
Here are some of our favourite places within a short walk or drive of Harbour Reach and our dog friendly lodges Cornwall. You’re sure to find your own too as there is something different around every corner and we’d love to hear about them! Drop us an email on info@harbourreachporthleven.co.uk if you’d like us to feature them on here.
For some great ideas about days out with your four legged friend visit Dog Friendly Lodges Cornwall.
BEACHES
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MOVERS & SHAKERS
A mile long, white sandy beach perfect for family days out, surfing and paddle boarding.
A long, safe sandy beach with the stunning backdrop of St Michaels Mount.
A great place for surfing, snorkelling, sailing and generally splashing around which is dog friendly all year round.
An attractive sandy cove overlooked by the tiny church of St Wynwallow.
A quieter sandy beach popular with surfers.
A lovely west-facing sandy beach great for swimming, building sandcastles, beach volleyball and rocks to explore at low tide.
A stretch of golden sand interspersed by rocks which is dog friendly all year round.
A tidal beach for the adventurous, famous for its white sand, turquoise sea and rock stacks.
WALKS
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MOVERS & SHAKERS
Penrose has a mixture of woodland, wetland and beach walks with some stunning views of the bay.
A gentle stroll to an inspiring cove where no fewer than 23 species of butterfly have been spotted drifting above spectacular rock formations. Ruined engine houses perch dramatically on the cliffs at Wheal Trewavas, while the mine building at Wheal Prosper was used in the filming of a Poldark sequel. There are breathtaking views over Mounts Bay and in summer you may spot seals, dolphins and basking sharks in the water below you.
South West Coast Path
With the UKs longest and best-loved national trail on the doorstep, you will never be short of choice for walks from gentle strolls to long distance hikes. The south Cornwall section of the path is charming, tranquil and sheltered and boasts impressive headlands, secluded sandy bays and shows nature at its best.
A vast sandy beach, high cliffs and dramatic coves with the opportunity to spot some seals on the beach below.
Coast path along the beach, through dunes, on pavements, lanes and footpaths.
Dramatic cliffs shaped by the Atlantic. The Lizard features white beaches, turquoise seas and unique nature.
TOWNS
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MOVERS & SHAKERS
Based around a thriving harbour with a fascinating maritime heritage, Falmouth is gateway to the beautiful Fal River. The town is famous for its creative buzz with many art galleries displaying contemporary works and venues showcasing independent films and live bands. The Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty along the Helford and Fal Rivers are perfect for walking and family days out. Falmouth is surrounded by several fantastic family friendly beaches and is known for its year-round events calendar. Falmouth’s maritime legacy and coastal culture is a huge part of its charm boasting world class watersports on its sheltered waters including gig rowing, kayaking, diving and regularly hosting sailing events such as Falmouth Regatta, and the Pendennis Cup.
A historic port on the south facing shores of Mount’s Bay with one of the mildest climates in the UK. One of the striking things about the town is the abundance of palm trees and gardens full of sub-tropical plants. Wander the town’s streets and you’ll find art galleries, book sellers and new age shops which add a slightly bohemian feel to the town while down at the harbour boat trips, sea safaris and fishing excursions provide some great seaborne activities.
A picturesque fishing harbour and seaside town. Wander through the maze of narrow cobbled streets, independent shops and fisherman’s cottages or sample some of the tasty award-winning restaurants, cafés and bars. Surf at the blue flag-rated Porthmeor beach or set off on an inspiring walk along the coastal path towards Land’s End. The town has been attracting artists for decades who come to capture the area’s undeniable natural beauty. It started with J M W Turner and the marine artist Henry Moore who first came to St Ives in the mid-1800s and since then the town has become a magnet for some of the world’s greatest painters, sculptors and ceramists.
Nestling just 35 miles off the coast of Cornwall, these islands are like nowhere else in England. Outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt, they seem like a world apart from everyday life. Arrive by small plane from Exeter, Newquay or Land’s End or by the passenger ferry Scillonian lll from Penzance. This cluster of low-lying islands lie amid a turquoise lagoon, some fringed by rocks, others by white sandy beaches, and all bathed in a light of wonderful intensity. There are five inhabited islands, and throughout the day fleets of colourful launches ferry people to and from the islands. Each of the islands has a distinct identity and special character.
The UK's most southerly city is a vibrant centre of shopping, culture and impressive architecture right in the heart of Cornwall. Centre stage is Truro Cathedral with its impressive gothic towers dominating the skyline. In its shadow, a warren of compact streets are home to an impressive array of independent traders. From boutiques to bookshops and designer interiors to delicatessens, this great little city offers a unique shopping experience. The café culture is pretty impressive too, with hip coffee houses, artisan ice creameries and cocktail bars dotted across the centre. There is a yearlong festival programme, weekly food markets and several art galleries, cultural events and historical attractions.
SPORT
If you’re feeling more adventurous, then the south west of Cornwall has some of the best spots for kayaking, paddle boarding and coasteering. Vertical Blue, based in the village, offer a variety of kayak and paddleboard tours including lessons, private hire and sales. From novice to expert, your adventure awaits!
As the most southerly port in the whole of this beautiful country, Porthleven offers a plethora of stunning cycling routes, which makes it ideal for those looking specifically for a cycling getaway, or for those who want to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and take in a bike ride at the same time.
Porthleven is one of the most notorious and challenging surf spots in Cornwall where only the bravest and experienced adrenaline seeking surfers venture. It is argued to have the best right-hand break in the UK, smashing over a shallow flat rock ledge at the speed of lightening and producing a perfect tubing wave on super clean days.
You would think that at just over 6,000 yards and with no trees, Mullion would be an easy and accommodating course. However, although most enjoyable for all handicaps, a good score is usually determined by the wind and avoiding the bunkers. The greens are also a significant factor for a good round at Mullion as they are in play throughout the year and consistent. Whether a high handicapper or if you are off low single figures, the course will challenge you but the main challenge is not being distracted by the stunning scenery!
EXPLORING
An ancient castle fortress, sloping subtropical gardens, sweeping lawns, and a harbour village. What will you discover first? Stride into the Mount’s past and unearth a rich vein of history that flows from prehistoric times. Or make the most of every Mount moment - picnic on the lawn, browse the island shops, or eat and drink at one of the cafes.
The Mollie May is a fully licensed traditional Cornish fishing boat insured to take up to 10 passengers enabling anybody to experience going to sea on a Cornish day boat. They run fishing and sightseeing trips from Porthleven Harbour on a daily basis. When the weather and tide times are favourable you can also enjoy one of Mollie May’s sunset trips, setting out just before dusk to watch the sunset from the sea and if you’re lucky you may spot a pod of dolphins or even a minke whale or two.