Perranporth Beach

Perranporth Beach is a wide stretch of sand on Cornwall's southern coast, framed by tall cliffs and gentle dunes. The water invites swimming and surfing, with lifeguards present most of the year to keep families and beginners safe.

The beach has served as a vital hub for local fishermen and sailors for centuries, remaining central to the region's identity. In the 1930s, local men began building some of the first surfboards in Britain, sometimes from unexpected materials like coffin lids.

The beach serves as a gathering place where locals and visitors connect with the sea and its rhythms throughout the year. The presence of riders, swimmers, and surfers reflects how the community has woven this space into their daily lives and traditions.

The site is easy to reach with free parking in off-season and along bus routes that serve the beach directly. Dogs are welcome year-round, and a calm tidal pool at Chapel Rock offers a gentler swimming option for those who prefer it.

Local legend tells of Saint Piran, patron saint of Cornish miners, who was thrown from a cliff yet drifted across the sea to these sands instead of drowning. The ruins of his chapel rest in the dunes near the beach, marking this connection between history and local lore.

Location: Cornwall

Address: Perranporth Beach, United Kingdom

GPS coordinates: 50.34883,-5.15465

Latest update: January 8, 2026 16:34