Porthcothan Beach

North Cornwall.

Porthcothan Beach is a sandy beach popular with surfers which extends at low tide to a huge expanse of sand. Parking and toilets are close to the beach at Porthcothan.

Signs warn of strong undercurrents, large breaking waves, unstable cliffs and not to use inflatables. Also risk of getting cut off at high tide. Lifeguards in summer at Porthcothan. See Beach Safety Guide.

There is a path from the car park through the dunes to the beach, taking about 5 minutes to walk. This path is sloping in places and is not suitable for wheel chairs. There are also steps down from the coast path.

Dogs allowed all year at Porthcothan.

Porthcothan is approximately 10 miles from Newquay. On the A30 near Indian Queens turn onto the A39 at the Highgate Hill roundabout. Proceed on the A39 north and continue on the A39 across the 1st roundabout. Continue on the A39 and at the 2nd roundabout (Trekenning roundabout) take the first left onto the A3059 (signposted for Newquay). After about 2 miles turn right, signposted to Watergate Bay and Mawgan Porth. Continue on this road until a junction and here turn right onto the B3276 (signposted to Padstow and Mawgan Porth). Follow this road through Mawgan Porth and about 3 miles after Mawgan Porth the B3276 drops down to Porthcothan.

PL28 8PW.

1 Council run car park at Porthcothan, a short walk from Porthcothan Beach.

Yes, by the Porthcothan car park.

Beach Shop at Porthcothan Beach.

Surfing.