Cornwall has the most coastline of any county in Britain, and that means an extraordinary range of beaches to choose from.

There are wide, golden family beaches with lifeguards and cafés close at hand, quieter coves reached only on foot, dramatic surf beaches facing straight into the Atlantic, and sheltered spots where the water stays calm even when the wind picks up elsewhere. Some hold Blue Flag status for their water quality and facilities. Others are known instead for their isolation, their wildlife, or simply the walk it takes to reach them.

Whether you are looking for somewhere safe for young children to paddle, a spot to surf, a beach that welcomes dogs, or somewhere to watch the sun go down with nobody else around, this guide brings together the best of them, region by region, with everything you need to know before you go.

All beaches

Bude

Summerleaze Beach, Bude Summerleaze is Bude's main beach, reached in under five minutes on foot from the town centre, with the car park leading straight… View beach

Falmouth

Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth Gyllyngvase is Falmouth's largest and most popular beach, a wide crescent of pale sand a short walk from the town centre, with… View beach

Fowey

Readymoney Cove Beach, Fowey Readymoney Cove sits just south of Fowey, reached by a short walk from the town centre through Readymoney car park and down… View beach

Marazion

Marazion Beach Marazion Beach is a broad stretch of sand backed by the village of Marazion, looking straight out across Mount's Bay to St… View beach

Mousehole

Mousehole Beach Mousehole is often called one of Cornwall's prettiest fishing villages, and while it is not really known as a beach destination, it… View beach

Newquay

Fistral Beach, Newquay Fistral Beach is Newquay's, and arguably Cornwall's, most famous beach, a wide sweep of golden sand set between the headlands of Pentire… View beach

Padstow

St George’s Cove, Padstow St George's Cove is Padstow's nearest beach, just over half a mile from the harbour, and takes its name from St George's… View beach

Penzance

Long Rock Beach, Marazion Longrock sits roughly halfway between Penzance and Marazion, and is popular with locals largely because it is the easiest stretch of sand… View beach

St Ives

Porthminster Beach, St Ives Porthminster Beach sits on the eastern side of St Ives, a short walk below the railway station and close to the town… View beach