The best coastal walks in Cornwall

Cornwall is well-known for its dramatic coastline and features some of the best coastal paths in the country. From windswept moors and river valleys to pristine beaches and sand dunes to Cornish dog friendly walkies, there’s always natural beauty to discover on foot across our incredible region.

Our guide explores the best coastal walks in Cornwall, ranked by difficulty, whether you’re after a short stroll or a longer hike along the coastline.

Best coastal walks in North Cornwall

Par to Polperro Walk

• Distance: 13.9 miles
• Duration: 6–7 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

Perfect for experienced walkers, the Par to Polperro route follows some of the National Cycle Network path around Par Sands. The first section is relatively straightforward, taking you from Polkerris to the daymark at Gribbin Head. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden coves, and towering headlands, and continue towards Fowey harbour—a picturesque town full of charming fishing boats and cottages. It’s a great place to stop for a bite to eat and enjoy the stunning views. On the tidal creeks, look out for herons, redshanks, and curlews before catching the foot ferry to Polruan.

The next section between Pencarrow Head, Lizard, and Bolt Head is more challenging, with inclines and tricky paths to navigate. Once you reach Polperro, take a well-earned break before heading back to Par.

Crackington Haven to Tintagel Walk

• Distance: 11.1 miles
• Duration: 5–6 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

If you’re an experienced hiker, the trail from Crackington Haven to Tintagel is an exciting challenge. This rugged stretch of coastline offers plenty to see, from isolated beaches to the impressive 120ft waterfall along the way. Keep an eye out for Soay sheep, goats, falcons, kestrels, peregrine falcons, and an array of wildflowers. Be mindful of the sheer cliff drops, and stick to the coast path for safety.

The route features Cornwall’s highest coastal cliff, High Cliff, towering at 700ft, providing unbeatable views of the Atlantic. As you approach Tintagel Head, you’ll reach the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. From here, descend to a small beach, where you can explore hidden caves and waterfalls, making this a truly magical Cornish adventure.

Sennen Cove to Lamorna

• Distance: 11.7 miles
• Duration: 5–6 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

If you’re visiting Land’s End, the Sennen Cove to Lamorna walk is a must-do. This challenging route along the rugged South Cornwall coastline offers spectacular views and is perfect for those seeking an adventure. The trail takes you past the country’s most westerly point, with breathtaking sights of the Atlantic. On clear days, you can see all the way to Wolf Rock Lighthouse and even the Isles of Scilly, making this one of Cornwall’s best coastal walks.

Along the way, keep an eye out for The Irish Lady, a striking offshore islet, as well as marine life such as seals, basking sharks, and dolphins. The path can be challenging, especially towards Lamorna, but the rewards are well worth it. For a shorter version of the walk, consider heading to Porthcurno (6.3 miles), or extend your journey to Mousehole, which adds an extra 2.4 miles to your adventure.

The Lizard Coastal Walk

• Distance: 7 miles
• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

Immerse yourself in nature on The Lizard Coastal Walk, one of Cornwall’s most stunning routes. This 7-mile trail takes you around Britain’s most southerly point, the Lizard Peninsula, offering a unique mix of dramatic cliffs, wildflowers, and unparalleled views. Starting at Kynance Cove, the route leads you along the coast path past Pentreath Beach, Polpeor Cove, and the iconic Lizard Lighthouse. The area is rich in rare wildflowers, making it a visual treat, especially in spring and summer.

For a peaceful rest, head to Pen Olver, which offers some of the best views along the walk, perfect for a picnic break. The trail can be challenging, but the reward is worth the effort, with panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the sea stretching endlessly beyond.

If you’re looking for something a bit less strenuous, try the Three Sides of The Lizard walk. This 4-mile route is more moderate, with fewer steep climbs and rough terrain. The scenery here may look familiar to fans of the Poldark TV adaptations, as the area inspired many of the stunning landscape shots featured in the series.

Godrevy to Hell’s Mouth Coastal Walk

• Distance: 5 miles
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Godrevy to Hell’s Mouth coastal walk offers a magical experience along some of Cornwall’s most dramatic cliffs. Starting at Godrevy Point near St Ives, the path takes you through sandy dunes and past towering cliffs, offering stunning views and the chance to spot local Cornish wildlife. As you journey towards Hell’s Mouth, you’ll pass by lighthouses and peaceful coves, where seals can often be spotted relaxing on the beach below. However, as the seals may be breeding, it’s important to keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing them.

On clear days, you might be lucky enough to catch sight of basking sharks and dolphins in the waters. The route can be muddy in places, so wearing wellies is a good idea, ensuring you stay comfortable as you explore the natural beauty of this coastal path.

Portreath to Hayle Coastal Path

• Distance: 11.7 miles
• Duration: 5–6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Portreath to Hayle coastal path takes you along some of Cornwall’s most stunning coastline, with breathtaking views over reefs, coves, and dramatic cliffs. The walk is relatively easy but features some steep climbs early on, offering a moderate challenge for those with some hiking experience. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Cornwall’s wildflowers, including primroses, blue sheep’s pit, and yellow rattle in spring and summer.

Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as seals in the waters at Godrevy and Gwithian, visible from Navax Point, or even basking sharks spotted from the North Cliffs. If you’re lucky, you might encounter Shetland ponies, often grazing at the Knavocks. This walk is also perfect for nature lovers, offering plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.

If you’re looking for a shorter walk, you can cut it to 7.6 miles by heading towards Gwithian. Alternatively, for a longer adventure, continue towards Carbis Bay (an extra 4.5 miles) or even to St Ives, an additional 6.1 miles from Carbis Bay.

Perranporth to St Agnes Walk

• Distance: 3.6 miles
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

The walk from Perranporth to St Agnes takes you along Cornwall’s rugged north coastline and is perfect for dog owners, with many pet-friendly pubs and sandy beaches along the way. The route offers a great day out with your four-legged friends, with plenty of opportunities to explore.

Start by strolling along Perranporth Beach, known for its golden sands, and enjoy the rugged cliffs, including the iconic Shag Rock islet, which provides stunning views of the Cornish coast. As you continue, you’ll pass Droskyn Point, where you can appreciate the area’s rich mining history. Walk the same paths that Cornish miners once took daily and enjoy breathtaking views over Cligga Quarry, Hanover Cove, and Trevallas Clove.

While the walk is generally moderate, there’s a steep section out of Blue Hills Valley as you make your way towards the cliffs, heading towards St Agnes. The route rewards you with amazing coastal scenery, making it a memorable journey for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Perranporth to Trevellas Circular Walk

• Distance: 5.4 miles
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Put on your walking boots and enjoy this circular walk from your holiday home at Sun Haven Park. Stroll along the golden stretches of Perranporth Beach, passing historical landmarks such as the ruins of Alfred Nobel’s dynamite works. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating sites like a shipwreck at Hanover Cove, full of treasure and remnants of the past, as well as an old Spitfire base.

This walk is perfect for dogs, with no stiles along the route and minimal livestock to worry about. The Perranporth Beach is dog-friendly, so your four-legged companions will enjoy the journey too. Be aware, though, that the coastal path runs close to cliff edges with no fencing, so keep a close eye on your dog while walking. The walk offers stunning views of the Cornish coastline, with plenty of opportunity for exploration, including the peaceful countryside and dramatic cliffs.

Trewarmett to Tregardock Circular Walk

• Distance: 5.8 miles
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Make your way along this breathtaking stretch of sea-sculpted cliffs, soaking in the spectacular coastal scenery before returning to a cosy evening in your caravan. This circular walk is full of stunning views, countryside trails, and hidden treasures. Along the way, you’ll come across coastal waterfalls, including the picturesque Tregardock Beach Waterfall, which is a must-see.

The route is teeming with wildlife—look out for peregrines, kestrels, and deer as you wander. Take time to explore the fascinating history of the area as you head towards Tregardock Beach, where the cliffs were once mined for antimony and silver as far back as the 1500s. The remnants of these historical workings are still visible along the path, adding a unique glimpse into Cornwall’s mining heritage.

With its mix of dramatic coastal landscapes, abundant wildlife, and historical intrigue, this walk offers the perfect balance of adventure and tranquillity.

St Just-in-Roseland to St Mawes Circular Walk

• Distance: 6.1 miles
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

For a walk that combines dramatic clifftop views with tranquil countryside paths, this circular route on Cornwall’s south coast is a must. Starting at St Just-in-Roseland, you’ll travel along the Roseland Peninsula towards the charming fishing village of St Mawes.

Key highlights include the Tudor Castle in St Mawes, the sub-tropical gardens at St Just Church, and the stunning scenery of the Percuil River. It’s a delightful mix of history, nature, and picturesque coastal views.

Gorran Haven Beach to Mevagissey

• Distance: 3.5 miles
• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

The route from Gorran Haven to Mevagissey is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful journey through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). You’ll enjoy sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, and countryside paths leading to Great Perhaver Point, Carn Rocks, and Jobbles Rock.

Don’t miss the Bronze Age burial mound near Turbot Point, as well as the picturesque Chapel Cove and Colona Beach. Once you reach Mevagissey, treat yourself to a well-deserved rest and some delicious food at one of the village’s welcoming spots.

Whitsand Bay Circular Walk

• Distance: 6.5 miles
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Perfect for dog walkers and nature lovers, the Whitsand Bay Circular Walk offers breathtaking coastal views and the refreshing sea air of south Cornwall. Starting at the Freathy parking area, you’ll follow the South West Coast Path (SWCP) towards Tregantle Fort.

If red flags are flying, the route will divert to a road—take care here as there may be sharp bends and traffic. Otherwise, continue along the coast. Along the way, you’ll see Trethill House, Crafthole Reservoir, and various wetlands and wildlife habitats before rejoining the coast path.

Hawkers Cove to Stepper Point Walk

• Distance: 1.5 miles
• Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

For a short and leisurely stroll, the route from Hawkers Cove to Stepper Point in Padstow is an excellent option. Close to both Sun Haven Park and Padstow Holiday Village, this walk offers stunning views of the Camel Estuary and the North Cornwall coast.

Starting at Hawkers Cove car park, follow a track through wildflower meadows to a clifftop path leading to Butter Hole Beach. Continue towards the Daymark Tower and explore the National Coastwatch Institute lookout hut at Stepper Point.

There are two routes available: a shorter, easier path ideal for those with limited mobility and a longer, slightly more rugged path for more adventurous walkers.

---

Where to stay for the best walks 

Discover the perfect base for your Cornish walking holiday by staying at one of our Cornish holiday parks, ideally located to explore Cornwall’s breathtaking coastline. Choose from lodges, holiday homes, safari tents, or shepherd’s huts, all surrounded by breathtaking walks along sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and peaceful countryside.

With locations on both the north and south coasts, including Sun Haven Holiday Park, Padstow Holiday Village, Penmarlam Lodge Retreat, and Cornish Meadows Holiday Park, you’ll have easy access to some of Cornwall’s most beautiful landscapes. With your own Cornish holiday home, you can enjoy a relaxing walk alongside a sandy beach or towering granite cliffs at any time of year.

Walking HolidaysWhether you’re here to unwind or explore at your own pace, we offer a range of accommodations for the ultimate Cornish walking holiday, perfect for nature lovers and walkers alike.

Original starts here: Portreath to Hayle coastal path

Distance: 11.7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Follow the coastal path from Portreath along the breathtaking cliffs and take in stunning views over the reefs and coves below. The walk is relatively easy to do, but there are some steep climbs towards the start.

Keep an eye out for beautiful flowers in spring and summer, including primroses, blue sheep’s pit, and yellow rattle. If you’re lucky, you might spot some seals in the water at Godrevy and Gwithian from Navax Point or basking sharks from the North Cliffs. There’s also Shetland ponies to meet who can usually be found grazing at the Knavocks.

You can make this walk shorter by walking 7.6 miles to Gwithian or make it longer by carrying on towards Carbis Bay (another 4.5 miles) or St Ives (another 6.1 miles).

Perranporth to St Agnes walk

Distance: 3.6 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

The walk from Perranporth to St Agnes takes you along the rugged north coastline of Cornwall and is excellent for dogs. During the walk, you’ll pass many pet-friendly pubs and sandy beaches, perfect for a day out with your four-legged friends.

Start your walk by exploring the golden Perranporth beach and the rugged cliffs, including ‘Shag Rock’, which offers views over the Cornish coast. Once you reach Droskyn Point, you’ll be able to marvel at the mining history of the local area. Walk the paths that Cornish miners walked every day and enjoy views over Cligga Quarry, Hanover Cove and Trevallas Clove.

There is an area of steep track out of the Blue Hills valley as you head towards the top of the cliffs towards St Agnes.

Perranporth to Trevellas circular walk

Distance: 5.4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Put on your walking boots and enjoy a day out walking from your holiday home at our Sun Haven Park. Stroll along golden stretches of beach and past the historical ruins of Alfred Nobel’s dynamite works on this circular walk. There’s a shipwreck full of treasure at Hanover Cove to discover as well as an old spitfire base.

This is another great walk for dogs as there are no stiles along the root, minimal livestock, and the beach at Perranporth is dog-friendly. The coast path runs close to cliff edges with no fencing, so take care when walking.

Crackington Haven to Tintagel walk

Distance: 11.1 miles

Difficulty: Hard

If you’re a more experienced hiker, the trail from Crackington Haven to Tintagel is perfect for you. Keep an eye out for Soay sheep, goats, falcons, kestrels, peregrine falcons, and wildflowers as you make your journey. Make sure you keep to the coast path as there are some sheer drops over the cliff edges.

There’s so much to see on this stretch of rugged coastline, from isolated beaches to a 120ft waterfall. The highest coastal cliff in Cornwall, High Cliff, is along this route, providing unbeatable views out to sea from 700ft up.

Explore the place King Arthur was born once you reach Tintagel Head and head down towards a small beach to discover hidden caves and waterfalls.

Trewarmett to Tregardock circular walk

Distance: 5.8 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Make your way along this stretch of sea sculpted cliffs and take in the spectacular scenery before returning for a cost evening in your caravan. The circular walk is full of incredible views and countryside, with must-see coastal waterfalls, including the Tregardock beach waterfall.

There’s plenty of wildlife to spot as well, including peregrines, kestrels and deer. Head towards Tregardock beach and take time to explore the history of the local area. The cliffs here were used to mine antimony and silver as far back as the 1500s, and you can still see the remains of these along the path.

Hawkers Cove to Stepper Point walk

Distance: 1.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

If you’re looking for a more leisurely stroll out, the route from Hawkers Cover to Stepper Point in Padstow is a great option. Both our parks – Sun Haven and Padstow Holiday Village – are close by, making it a great day out.

Starting at the car park at Hawkers Cove, you’ll travel along a track past stunning wild grass meadows and to a clifftop path leading you to Butter Hole Beach. Carry on along the coastal path towards Daymark tower and explore the National Coastwatch Institute lookout hut at Stepper Point.

Look out in awe over the Camel Estuary and the north coast of Cornwall towards the sea. There are two different paths to choose from – one which is shorter and ideal if you have limited mobility, and another with a slightly longer and more uneven path.

Godrevy to Hell’s Mouth coastal walk

Distance: 5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Walk alongside the dramatic cliffs on Godrevy Point in St Ives and head towards Hell’s Mouth for a magical day out. Pass up through sandy dunes to the towering cliffs and discover lighthouses and Cornish wildlife.

Once you reach Mutton Cove, you can often see seals relaxing on the beach below. As the seals are breeding, you need to be careful of noises as they can be spooked. On a clear day, you might spot basking sharks and dolphins out in the water.

It’s best to wear wellies for this Cornish coastal path as the route can be muddy at parts.

Best coastal walks in South Cornwall

The Lizard coastal walk

Distance: 7 miles

Difficulty: Hard

Become one with nature on your break away to your holiday home and immerse yourself in beauty on one of Cornwall’s best stunning walks. The journey takes you around Britain’s most southerly point, Lizard Peninsula. Expect to see a unique combination of rare wildflowers and dramatic cliffs as you walk along the coast.

Starting at Kynance Cove, the route will take you towards Lizard Point on a coast path alongside Pentreath beach, Polpeor Cove, and Lizard Lighthouse. If you want to take a picnic break, Pen Olver has some of the most incredible views to take in whilst you rest.

For a more moderate route, try the Three Sides of The Lizard walk. The walk is 4 miles long and is more level with more minor climbs and rough terrain. You might recognise the landscape if you’ve watched the adaptations of Winston Graham’s Poldark novels as the scenery inspired various scenes.

St Just-in-Roseland to St Mawes circular walk

Distance: 6.1 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

If you want to enjoy a mix of dramatic clifftops and relaxing countryside, this is one of the best walks in Cornwall for you on your holiday. This circular route is located on the south coast and takes you past the Roseland peninsular along the coast towards the pretty fishing village of St Mawes.

Some of the highlights of this circular walk are the Tudor castle in St Mawes, the sub-tropical gardens at St Just church, and the stunning scenery of the Percuil River.

Gorran Haven Beach to Mevagissey

Distance: 3.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

The route from Gorran Haven to Mevagissey is one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets. Travel along the coast path through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and admire the sandy beaches before walking across the countryside towards Great Perhaver Point, Carn Rocks and Jobbles Rock.

You can visit a Bronze Age burial mound on the way to Turbot Point before you head down towards Chapel Cove and Colona Beach. Once you make it to Mevagissey, you can rest and have a bite to eat.

Whitsand Bay circular walk

Distance: 6.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Another fantastic route for walking your dog is along the Whitsand Bay circular walk on the south coast of Cornwall. Take in breathtaking views of the coast and enjoy the fresh seaside air.

Start at the Freathy parking area near Looe and walk along the South West Coast Path (SWCP) towards Tregantle Fort. If you see red flags flying, you’ll need to join the road. Take care on this road as there can be high levels of traffic and there are sharp bends. If no flags are flying, continue on the route.

On your journey, you’ll visit Trethill House, Crafthole reservoir, as well as wetlands and wildlife habitats before rejoining the South West Coast Path.

Sennen Cove to Lamorna

Distance: 11.7 miles

Difficulty: Hard

If you’re visiting Land’s End for a day out, the walk from Sennen Cove to Lamorna is worth a visit. It can be quite a challenging walk, especially as you head towards Lamorna, but it is rewarding and has some incredible views to discover.

Explore the edge of Britain and walk alongside the rugged coastline of South Cornwall past the country’s most westerly point. On clear days you can see all the way out to Wolf Rock Lighthouse and even to the Isles of Scilly. This is truly one of the best coastal walks in Cornwall.

Look out for The Irish Lady, a rocky offshore islet, as well as seals, basking sharks and dolphins. For a shorter route, travel to Porthcurno (6.3 miles), and for a more extended way, travel to Mousehole (an extra 2.4 miles).

Visit your holiday home and explore the Cornish coast

With your own Cornish holiday home, you can enjoy a relaxing walk alongside a sandy beach or towering granite cliffs at any time of year.

Our holiday home ownership in Cornwall is available at two of our most popular parks, Sun Haven Holiday Park and Padstow Holiday Village on the north coast. Both parks are located only a stone’s throw away from sandy beaches and some of the best coastal walks in Cornwall.