With over 400 beaches packed into the Cornish coastline, there are plenty of incredible places perfect for that seaside swim. The sandy shores and turquoise waters are incredibly inviting, so even a quick dip is a must when you’re paying a visit to Cornwall in the warmer months!
Please Note: Due to COVID-19, it is currently advised not to go swimming in the sea, or partaking in other water sport activities in order to avoid putting lifeguards and rescue teams at risk should you come into difficulties in the water.
Ordinarily, it is also important to only try and swim at lifeguarded beaches, and between the red and yellow flags, which mark out safe areas for swimming. For more advice on beach safety, and the flag system, check out our previous post on staying safe at the beach.
Gyllyngvase
Falmouth’s most popular beach, Gyllyngvase is a hotspot on the south coast for water activities. This sandy stretch offers ample opportunity to paddle or take a deeper dip into the sea and swim. Need a break? The beach also has a café, perfect for a post-swim snack!
Carbis Bay
Carbis Bay beach is located close to St Ives, and offers a sheltered spot with a tropical feel, making it ideal for jumping into the sea. This beach is so good for swimming, in fact, that the location is used for an annual Biathlon, which involves running from St Ives to Carbis Bay, and then swimming from this beach over to Porthminster!
Perranuthnoe
Perranuthnoe beach is located on the south coast, where the sea is a little calmer and more sheltered than many of the north coast spots. This beach is an ideal swimming spot for many, as you are likely able to get in the water at both high and low tide, allowing you to swim when it suits you best. As well as this, Perranuthnoe beach is accompanied by a car park with easy access to the shore.
Kynance Cove
An iconic spot in Cornwall, Kynance Cove is the place to go if you’re looking for a casual swim with one of the most stunning backdrops in the county. Perhaps not the best for those who want to swim out far, but for an enjoyable dip into these azure waters, there’s no better place. As the water tends to be crystal clear here, it is also a great spot to try out some snorkelling!
Sea Pools in Cornwall
If you’re wary of waves and other dangers associated with swimming in the sea, then a sea pool may be just the answer for you. These natural pools are located near the beach and fill with seawater as the tide changes.
You can find a number of sea pools around the coast, with the Jubilee Pool in Penzance being the largest. You could also visit the Bude Sea Pool, Chapel Rock in Perranporth or the Porthtowan Tidal Pool.
When deciding where to swim in the sea in Cornwall, you should always check the tide times, local weather and wind conditions to ensure that it is safe for you.
After a day of exercise and activity in the sea, why not unwind at one of our hot tub cottages in Cornwall?! The warm water will help soothe any tired muscles, without even needing to change out of your swimsuit!