Lowena Merritt
03 September 2025
Framed by dramatic cliffs and steeped in mining heritage, Porthtowan is a rugged beach on the north Cornish coast. Its sandy sweep, lively surf and laid-back village atmosphere make it a favourite for surfers, families and walkers alike.
Discover the best of Porthtowan:
A beach with character
Porthtowan’s golden sands stretch out between towering cliffs, where remnants of Cornwall’s mining past still cling to the landscape. Old engine houses dot the valley backdrop, giving the beach a raw, industrial beauty unique to this stretch of coastline.
The surf here is the main draw – big, lively waves that attract surfers and bodyboarders year-round. Yet Porthtowan has its gentler side too. At low tide, a calm tidal pool emerges, providing a safe, sheltered spot for a swim or somewhere for kids to paddle and play.
Food and drink
Salt in your hair, sand on your toes, and a choice of great local spots for refuelling.
Blue Bar – The town’s most iconic eatery, with a surf-bar vibe, laid-back atmosphere and a menu of seafood, burgers and post-surf bites.
The Unicorn – A beachside pub and restaurant with a tropical-feel conservatory full of plants and ceiling fans, plus an outdoor terrace for long afternoons in the sun.
Moomaid – Serving up Cornish ice cream in inventive flavours, perfect for beach breaks.
Shops and surf
A simple beach town at heart, Porthtowan has everything you need for coastal living. Stop by Tris Surf Shop for surf gear and fashion.
Walks with a story
The South West Coast Path offers some of the most rewarding walks in Cornwall from Porthtowan.
Porthtowan to Chapel Porth – A circular trail through valleys, clifftops and woodland, taking in relics of Cornwall’s copper mining heritage along the way.
Porthtowan to Portreath – A rugged cliff walk to the neighbouring bay, with flower-lined paths and striking sea views.
Both routes reveal more of the area’s history and drama, with Atlantic panoramas around every headland.
Stay in Porthtowan
Whether you come for the surf, the food, the walks, or the wild backdrop, Porthtowan captures the essence of North Cornwall. Find your Porthtowan retreat and stay amongst the sea air.
Your Beach. Found
Your beach is the one that has just what you’re looking for: sandcastle sand, shoreline strolls, sunset surfs or sunrise swims. Find your beach with the Beach Match Quiz.
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Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.