Secret Season: Watergate Bay
This north coast bay sits below dramatic clifftops where vast sands are dotted with dog walkers and surfers flock to take on the rolling sets. Famous for its breathtaking sundowners and miles of scenic coast paths, Watergate Bay is a beautiful out of season destination to spend time this Secret Season.
Join us for the day as we take in the sights from the coast path, enjoy some beachside beverages, skate oceanside at the brand-new ice rink and watch a blissful sunset.
Approaching Watergate Bay from the coast path nearest Porth Beach offers a fantastic reveal as you round the headland. At low tide, the sand stetches out into the distance to Griffin’s Point. Take a moment to watch surfers enjoying the rolling sets, look for beach phenomena and spot wildlife from this vantage point.
For those looking for a longer ramble, join the coast path on the other side of the bay and enjoy a spectacular walk to Griffin Point and onto Mawgan Porth. This dramatic stretch of coastline is well worth exploring and Mawgan Porth provides the perfect pit stop before you head back to the bay.
Back at Watergate Bay, wave-seekers can enjoy the fantastic surf conditions and take a lesson with Wavehunters located just above the beach. Or dippers may enjoy some hot and cold therapy with a sauna session followed by a short walk the ocean. Surf lessons and sauna sessions can be booked through Wavehunters here.
Dog-friendly all year round, Watergate Bay is a fantastic beach to show your canine companions a good time. When the tide us out, there is endless space for them to run, splash and explore. The Beach Hut and The Living Space welcome dogs too, so they can warm up with you after a long walk.
The Beach Hut located right alongside the sand offer the perfect refuge to warm hands around a steaming mug of hot chocolate and are open daily from 9.30am to 9.00pm. Here you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with panoramic sea views.
Sunday visitors can sample the newly offered Sunday lunch at The Living Space, another toasty destination with comfy sofas and ocean views. Served family style, choose from specials such as hearty nut roast Wellington and roast porchetta with an array of delicious sides.
This year, Watergate Bay visitors are in for a festive treat with the brand-new, oceanside ice rink. Located in the car park above the beach, this 360-square-metre ice rink is open daily with hot and cold drinks and pizza from The Cabin. Find out more about Skate by the Sea here.
Another option for a post-skate supper is Zacry’s Restaurant, located above the beach. Here you can sample local hero ingredients with a seasonal three-course menu or opt for the six-course tasting menu with optional paired wines.
Be sure to be beachside for the famous Watergate Bay sunsets. As the light dims and the twinkling festoon lighting comes alive, watch as the sky changes to orange and scarlet and the surfers catch the last wave of the day.
Stay at the Bay this Secret Season
Choose from vibrant apartments moments from the shore to large beach houses for all the family. Discover places to stay in and around Watergate Bay and experience Cornwall’s secret season for yourself.
