Crantock Beach

over a mile of golden sands

Crantock Beach, postcode TR8 5RN, with it's wide expanse of sand, back by sand dunes, and large car park is enjoyed by families and paddle boarders alike. The beach is lifeguarded in season, with a ice cream kiosk and beach goods shop right on the sand. Surf board hire too, even a well established surf school. From coasteering to kayaking to half day sessions surfing lessons, or a multi activity package for those keen to try a combination of watersports. Have a family holiday at Crantock Holiday Park.

Porth Joke- in an idyllic setting with Crantock Beach and the Gannel Estuary on the west side, and separated by West Pentire Headland mention must also be made of Polly Joke, one of the most unspoilt of Cornwall beaches.

Flowing into the sea on the eastern side of the beach is the River Gannel. In season a foot ferry runs a on return service across the river. On the Newquay bank is the Fernpit café, postcode TR7 1PJ. Please note the river itself is subject to strong currents and not suitable for swimming, or even wading for that matter with its ever shifting sands.

Old Albion Inn, thatched, low beamed, dating from the 1780's in a picture box setting at the heard of the village, right next to the lynch gate of the church. Everyone's idea of a village pub. The village itself dates from the 5th century, taking its name from St Carantoc - a Celtic Saint. Though now with a somewhat unsightly render the church in fact dates from Norman times.

West Pentire Headland is now cared for the Nation by the National Trust, as is much of the land here. In late spring the surrounding fields are a blaze of wildflowers, including poppies and corn marigolds, thanks to careful management by the Trust. The exact species mix each year depends on many factors, for example ploughing in spring means far less poppies will flower that season. On the headland is the popular Bowgie Inn, with lots of outdoor seating. Why not stay at the Crantock Bay Hotel, with its fine views?

To reach Porth Joke Beach postcode TR8 5SE , locally described as Polly Joke, head west for a half mile walk from the car park, or more rewarding around West Pentire Headland. Take in the stunning coast views, looking down into Vugga Cove, and back over your shoulder towards the hustle and bustle that is Crantock Beach on a sunny summer day. Porth Joke is a narrow inlet framed by the Headland on one side and the wild flower covered Kelseys- (an ancient area of springy turfed grassland, rich in wildflowers on the other) popular with surfers and off the beaten track. You might be very lucky and see the rare silver studded blue butterfly. A stream runs down the valley, and open fields and low dunes lead right onto the head of the beach. The beach is popular with body boarders. Often cattle can be found drinking from the stream. In the words of the National Trust- "if the cattle concern you there are Crantock and Holywell Bay beaches nearby" Personally we think they add to the character of this lovely out of the way beach.

Keen Cornwall Coast path walkers might wish to continue around Kelsey Head and its Iron age fort to the wide expanse of sand that is Holywell Bay, with Gull Rocks in the distance.

Please check exact dates of events and timings before setting out