Top sea swim spots in Cornwall

Nothing beats the feeling of a dip in the sea. With cold water swimming now being linked to many health benefits, including reduced stress, a boosted immune system and countless positive impacts on our mental health – now might be the time to take the plunge in nature’s pool. Read on for my top sea swim spots in Cornwall.

St Mawes

Located on the Roseland, if you visit St Mawes on a calm, sunny day, you’d be forgiven for mistaking it for a tropical island abroad. With all the trademark, shingled coves and beautiful rockpools of the South Cornish coast, this area has plenty of secluded spots for activities in and on the water.

Grebe Beach, Falmouth

Tucked away behind undisturbed woodland lies Grebe Beach, on the Northern bank of the Helford River. This year-round, dog-friendly spot is ideal for swimmers, with plenty of neighbouring inlets to explore. Pick the right day, and you can admire everything below the surface of effortlessly clear water.

Par Sands Beach, St Austell

A new and recent find for me, Par Sands Beach sits in St Austell Bay and is a little less ‘off the beaten track’. With plenty of parking, a wide stretch of silky soft sand and welcoming to dogs all year round, it’s a very accessible choice which doesn’t compromise on scenery or swimming conditions. When I visited in the summer, there was also paddle board hire available in the car park, alongside a coffee and pasty van.

Porthtowan Beach

The ultimate sunset sea swim spots in Cornwall can be found on the North Coast. Whilst renowned for great waves and perfect surf, you can still enjoy a splash about in the waters when the conditions are right. Porthtowan is one of my favourites on this coastline. Prepare to be wowed as you watch the sun melt into the ocean whilst submerged in gold-tinted water. It’s pretty magical!

Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth

I could hardly write a list of my top sea swim spots in Cornwall without including my local. Just a 10 minute walk from Falmouth’s town centre, the ample parking, surrounding coastal walks, toilet facilities and WeSup paddle board hire means Gylly beach is fuss-free and easy.

Lifeguarded in the summer months, it is also a great choice for beginners wanting to dip their toe (quite literally) in the sea swimming world. After embracing a cool, ocean dip, Gylly Beach Cafe is the perfect place to warm up over a hot chocolate – or something stronger!

Portscatho, The Roseland

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Portscatho, home to the Hidden Hut, a now well-known, secluded coastal path café, is a great starting point for going on a secret beach search. Neighbouring sands and sheltered bays are where you’ll find these crystalline waters, where half the fun is in the discovery. The Roseland is famous for the most fantastic swimming spots, worthy of noting down and visiting time and time again.

Pentewan

Last but not least, we have Pentewan, sandwiched between Porthpean and Mevagissey, a few miles outside of St Austell. Opt for the popular Pentewan Beach itself, which has everything you need for a day at the seaside, or head up the grassy hills and along the coastal path to find some unmapped and hidden entry points to the calm waters.

Please note: most of these recommendations are not lifeguarded beaches. Always take precautions when swimming or doing any watersports in the ocean.