Top 15 coves you must visit in Cornwall

The variety of landscapes in Cornwall are fascinating to visit – from pristine sandy beaches to great cliffs, there’s so much to explore! However, what you might be missing is a trip to a water cove beach, where you can find some of the most hidden beauties of the coast.

A stunning cove in Cornwall near our Away Resorts locations.

Whatever part of Cornwall you’re staying in whilst on staycation, whether it’s a Newperran holiday park or accommodation in Bude, there will no doubt be a hidden cove spot for you to discover.

Here is a quick guide to some of the Cornish water cove beach spots you just have to visit whilst you’re on holiday.

Top 15 coves you must visit in Cornwall:

A drone image of Kynance Cove, Cornwall. There are lots of rocks to explore, a sandy coastline and lovely blue waters.

Kynance Cove, Mount’s Bay

Kynance Cove in Cornwall does not disappoint! Enjoy crystal-clear waters that glisten under the Cornish skies. Located just west of Britain most southerly point, its on the Lizard peninsula on the subtropical south coast. Due to the low tide, one of the best features is its sea caves with beautiful names such as The Parlour. Along with the sea caves, there are also lots of rock pools.

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An image of a wave crashing into rocks on the beach.

Sennen Cove, Whitesand Bay

On the far west side of the county, Sennen Cove in Cornwall is the ideal location if you love to surf. The Pedn-men-du is a promontory at the southern end of the bay that protects the water cove beach spot from westerly Atlantic winds. From its lookout point, the views are amazing, and if you look below, there are granite cliffs that are popular among climbers.

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An image of Church Cove, Cornwall on a summers day. There are views of the beach, blue sea and surrounding greenery.

Church Cove, Lizard Peninsula

Within the west side of the county, Church Cove is a small cave that was once a mini fishing cove with a few boats. There are a few boats still situated there sometimes, but its not in commercial use anymore. There are stunning coastal walks and vantage points where you can view the gorgeous cove. The water around here is clear, meaning its the perfect location for diving and snorkelling.

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A view of Mounts Bay, Cornwall, on a cloudy but sunny day. There are views of the glorious blue sea and the mount in the distance.

Prussia Cove, Mount’s Bay

Prussia Cove Cornwall, near Penzance is tucked away in a perfect location for a quiet area to visit where you can have a great view of the sea or even clamber over the rocks. It’s made of many secluded coves that all have their unique characters. And with individual water cove beach spots to tick off your bucket list, it’s one of the more unique sets of coves to visit.

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An image of Mullion Cove, Cornwall on a sunny  day. There are views of the vast cliffs, rocks and stunning blue sea.

Mullion Cove, Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard Peninsula is a great place to find some of the best cove locations, and Mullion Cove Cornwall is not an exception. At low tide, there is a small beach to wander on where you can sit, relax, and watch the boats go by, but you can also explore the local wildlife here. With many coastal paths to explore, you could see a range of animals, including dolphins, seals, and birds.

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Pedn Vounder image

Pedn Vounder

Pedn Vounder is a hidden gem on the Cornish coast, offering visitors a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of nature in a secluded and idyllic setting. With its golden sands, clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, its a beach that captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Its nestled between Logan Rock to the east and the Minack Theatre to the west.

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Porth Joke image

Porth Joke

Porth Joke offers a peaceful and unspoiled retreat for those seeking a quieter beach experience in Cornwall. With its natural beauty, secluded atmosphere, and opportunities for coastal walks and wildlife spotting, it's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Polly Joke Cove is situated just west of Newquay, near the village of Crantock.

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Porthcurno Cove image

Porthcurno Cove

Porthcurno Cove is a truly enchanting destination that captivates visitors with its natural beauty, clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you are looking to relax on the golden sands, explore the coastal paths, or immerse yourself in history and culture, Porthcurno Cove offers something for everyone to enjoy. This stunning beach is considered one of Cornwall most iconic attractions.

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Nanjizal Cove image

Nanjizal Cove

Nanjizal Cove is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by those seeking a secluded and unspoiled beach experience in Cornwall. With its natural arch, clear waters, and rugged beauty, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds and a chance to reconnect with nature along the stunning Cornish coastline. Its secluded location means it's often overlooked by tourists.

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Housel Bay image

Housel Bay

Housel Bay is a hidden treasure on the Lizard Peninsula that lies within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering visitors a chance to experience the unspoiled beauty of Cornwall's coastline. With its sandy beach, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, its the perfect destination for a peaceful seaside retreat and a glimpse of the natural beauty that Cornwall has to offer.

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Lantic Bay image

Lantic Bay

Lantic Bay is a hidden gem on the South Cornish coast with sweeping views of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters, offering visitors a chance to experience the unspoiled beauty of Cornwalls coastline. With its sandy beach, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, its the perfect destination for a peaceful seaside retreat and a glimpse of the natural beauty that Cornwall has to offer.

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Vault Beach image

Vault Beach

Vault Beach offers visitors a chance to experience the unspoiled beauty of Cornwalls coastline. With its sandy beach, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, it's the perfect destination for a peaceful seaside retreat and a glimpse of the natural beauty that Cornwall has to offer. It lies within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and offers panoramic views of the rugged cliffs.

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Tregardock Beach image

Tregardock Beach

Tregardock Beach offers a remote and unspoiled retreat for visitors seeking a peaceful escape along the North Cornwall coast. With its wild beauty, sandy shoreline, and opportunities for coastal walks and water sports, it's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurers and nature lovers alike. While offers stunning views of the dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.

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Lusty Glaze Beach image

Lusty Glaze Beach

Lusty Glaze Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and entertainment, making it a popular destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax on the golden sands, catch some waves, or enjoy live music by the sea, Lusty Glaze Beach has something for everyone to enjoy. Its nestled within a sheltered cove, offering a secluded experience for visitors.

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Polridmouth Cove image

Polridmouth Cove

Polridmouth Cove offers a peaceful and unspoiled retreat for visitors seeking a quieter beach experience in Cornwall. With its sandy shoreline, clear waters, and literary connections, its the perfect destination for a relaxing seaside escape and a glimpse of the natural beauty that Cornwall has to offer. See stunning views of the rugged cliffs and the turquoise waters of St Austell Bay.

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Water cove beach holiday FAQs

Depending on the type of holiday you want and who you’re holidaying with, here are a few questions that may be on your mind to narrow down your cove choices.

What is the best cove in Cornwall?

Some of the best water cove beach spots include Kynance Cove, Porthcurno Cove and Prussia Cove. But it’s truly up to you to decide which ones are your favourite! And with so many other options to choose from, it’s going to be a hard decision.

Where is the bluest water in Cornwall?

With plenty of coastlines, there are endless blue waters to discover whilst holidaying in Cornwall, but some of the bluest waters are at the beaches around Land’s End. This includes Sennen Cove and porthcurno

Where is the secret beach in Cornwall?

There are a few secret beaches that you will be amazed to find. But we’re letting you in on one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets — Portheras Cove. It’s amongst the quietest and secluded beaches in Cornwall and one of the best places to see some seals! Situated between Morvah and Pendeen, it’s definitely one to visit.

Why is Kynance Cove famous?

Kynance Cove is famous for many reasons. One of the reasons is that it is part of the Lizard Peninsula Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is one of the most picturesque spots in Cornwall. It’s also famous for its great exposures of striking serpentinite, its flora, and fauna and its geological significance.

Can you swim at Kynance Cove?

Swimming at Kynance Cove can be dangerous due to the strong currents and unpredictable tides, so it’s best to carefully observe the tides. It’s advised to only swim here with necessary precautions whilst following safety guidelines and signposts. Exercise caution and if you’re unsure, don’t enter at all.

A family enjoying a peaceful stroll to the Cornish coastline on a summers day.

What next?

Now you have just a few of the many water cove beach spots in Cornwall that you can visit whilst you’re staying at Away Resorts, why not try out some seal spotting? The options for adventure are endless. Now you have just a few of the many water cove beach spots in Cornwall that you can visit whilst you’re staying at Away Resorts!

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