Vault Beach, Coastal beach near Gorran Haven, England
Vault Beach is a coastal shoreline on Cornwall's south coast where sand and shingle blend together along a curved waterfront. The entire beach spans about 110 meters and forms a small sheltered cove set between rocky outcrops.
The name comes from shipwrecks near Dodman Point, where bodies from vessels that sank during the age of sailing ships would wash ashore here. This tragic history shaped the place's identity and reflects the harsh maritime past of the Cornish coast.
The western section serves as a gathering spot for those who prefer swimming without clothes, especially on warm summer days. This area has developed naturally over time and draws visitors seeking that particular style of beach experience.
A 20-minute walk from the National Trust car park in Gorran Haven is needed to reach the shoreline, with the path taking you through the landscape. There are no facilities like toilets or refreshment stands on the beach itself, so bring what you need from the start.
Grey seals appear in the waters offshore, particularly when fewer visitors are on the shoreline. These animals can be spotted quite easily if you sit quietly on the rocks and watch the sea for a time.
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