The best things to do in St Merryn

St Merryn is defined by its coastline. Unlike the harbour towns of Padstow or Port Isaac, life here is wide open and elemental. It is about big skies, crashing waves, and rugged cliffs. It is the perfect base for surfers, walkers, and anyone who wants to escape the crowds and find their own patch of sand.

Whether you want to play on a championship golf course, learn to surf at Harlyn, or watch the sunset from a lighthouse, here is our curated guide to the best activities in St Merryn.

Our Top Picks

These three experiences are the highlights of the St Merryn area.

1. Challenge the “Seven Bays”

The village is famous for having seven distinct beaches within a short radius. Trying to visit all seven is the ultimate local challenge.

• The List: Porthcothan, Treyarnon, Constantine, Booby’s Bay, Mother Ivey’s, Harlyn, and Trevone.
• The Highlight: Constantine Bay is often voted one of the best beaches in the UK. It is a vast sweep of sand backed by dunes, perfect for surfing and dog walking.

2. Trevose Golf & Country Club

You don’t have to be a pro to appreciate this. Located at Constantine Bay, it is one of the most spectacular links courses in the country.

• The Experience: The Championship Course attracts players from all over the world, but there are also two other courses for different abilities. The views from the fairways out to the headland are breathtaking.

3. Learn to Surf at Harlyn Bay

Harlyn is often considered the safest family beach in the area because it is crescent-shaped and sheltered from the biggest swells.

• The School: Harlyn Surf School is legendary. They offer lessons for all ages, plus paddleboarding and coasteering. It is the perfect place to stand up on a board for the first time.

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Walks & Views

Trevose Head & Lighthouse

Drive (or walk) out to the headland between Constantine and Harlyn to find the lighthouse.

• The Walk: The National Trust path around the headland offers panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see all the way down the coast to St Ives. It is a prime spot for bird watching and spotting seals.

Treyarnon Tidal Pool

Located at Treyarnon Bay, this is a natural rock pool that has been enhanced with a concrete wall. It is huge (swimming pool size) and fills up with fresh seawater every tide.

• The Activity: It is safer than the open sea and warms up slightly in the sun, making it great for wild swimming.

Nearby Attractions

• Padstow: St Merryn is only a few miles from Padstow. You can easily pop over to cycle the Camel Trail or visit the Lobster Hatchery.
• Bedruthan Steps: Just south of Porthcothan, these giant slate stacks rising from the beach are a photographer’s dream. Note that the cliff steps are currently closed for safety, but the clifftop views are still incredible.

Parking Tips

• National Trust: If you are a member, use your card at Trevose Head and Bedruthan Steps to save money.
• Beach Car Parks: Most of the Seven Bays have large car parks, but they can be expensive in the summer. Harlyn and Constantine are particularly busy, so arrive early (before 10am) or late (after 4pm) to guarantee a spot.

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