Panorama of Porthcothan beach and bay in Cornwall. Picture taken at low tide when the sandy floor of the bay is exposed. It is a dramatic scene as the long bay is lined with steep cliffs. The flags on the beach show the lifeguards overseeing the surfers.

Porthcothan Bay - Cornwall visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Porthcothan Bay' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Cornwall.

Porthcothan lies on the north coast of Cornwall between Newquay and Padstow. Porthconthan Bay is popular with surfers and has a sandy beach with nearby parking. A lifeguard is on duty here during the summer months. At the back of the beach are toilets and a cafe. At low tide there are fantastic rock pools to explore, full of sea life.

The bay lies on a coastal path from which there are great views out to see towards Will's Rock and Trescore Islands. The land to the north is owned by the National Trust and contains an ancient Tumulus. Porthcothan is close to Mawgan Porth Constantine, Trevone, Harlyn and Treyarnon, all of which also have great beaches and are well worth a visit.

There are numerous camping and caravan sties around Porthcovan as well as various Bed and Breakfast (B&B) places. It is advisable to book ahead, especially in the high season.

Walk: From Treyarnon or Mawgan Porth
Drive: Porthconthan is 9 miles north of Newquay and 5 miles south of Padstow on the B3276.