Nestled in one of the most beautiful coastlines of Cornwall is Crantock Beach, just south of Newquay. It is quite easy to be enamoured by this little bay. There are many reasons this beach makes my heart sing: The rings of water that are left behind on the sand as the tide comes onto Crantock’s beach, the backdrop of the majestic sand dunes — and then there is the most iconic feature: the pointed rock coming up from the sea at the north end of the bay.

If you love capturing your surroundings through a lens like me, this beach’s setting is a photographer’s dream:

Crantock Bay is also perfectly located to enjoy one of the many beautiful walks along the coast. For example, this particular walk is part of the South West Coast Path. Have a look at here for an easy route.

The above link also has some fun historical facts if you fancy having a wee read. Crantock was originally known as Langurroc which means “dwelling of the monks.” I loved reading of this little bay’s past. It is said that St Carantoc (a Welsh abbott from the 5th Century) sailed in a Coracle and was led to the place that would become Crantock Church. It has of course changed since St Carantoc’s time of the 5th Century, but there is a still a church building on that foundation.

During low tide, I highly encourage you to explore the caves! Standing on the beach facing the sea, you will want to walk towards your left. Seek out the carving of a woman’s face and the poem next to her in one of these rocky chambers. My family and I have been to this beach so many times, but have only just discovered the caves this last visit. This is just one more example of why I always want to encourage folk to keep walking and exploring!

On my family’s most recent holiday to Crantock Beach, Storm Alex was making its presence known! But the surroundings and panorama were just as spectacular in the extreme winds, rain and hail as on a pretty blue-skied day! In fact, one of my favourite memories from this last trip to Cornwall was being caught in a hail storm and standing under a picnic blanket with some of my family watching the mini lakes form on the expanse of sand that was before us. I don’t believe I would like to be caught in a hail storm just anywhere, but somehow it’s invigorating and really wonderful at the beach!

Rain or shine, Crantock Bay is a beach worth visiting during your time in Cornwall.

The Practicals

SatNav: Use TR8 5RN.

Parking: The main car park is free for National Trust members & Blue Badge holders. Otherwise, there is a pay and display system in operation. If you are paying by cash, exact change is required. Alternatively, you can pay by phone (you can download the app before coming as phone reception isn’t great in this area). Please check here for current prices.

Please check here on where to swim safely and for current lifeguard conditions. Crantock’s website states: “The RNLI strongly advise that visitors should only swim when lifeguards are on duty and obey the flags that are put up on the beach showing you where and when it is safe to enter the water. Lifeguard service is in place only over weekends in early October and from 17 October to 1 November.”

Toilets: Yes, in the main carpark.

Dogs: Yes, indeedy. Welcome all year and no lead required.

This beach is sandy.

During better weather, a converted military truck sells really lovely coffee, ice cream and cakes. It will be parked near the estuary. (Cards accepted)

Enjoy this beautiful beach! :)