Top 10 incredible Wild Swimming spots in South Cornwall to visit this year
Cornwall is known for its beautiful old fishing villages, surf culture, and coastal wildlife but it also has some incredible wild swimming spots which are well worth exploring. From secluded coves to a crystal-clear quarry, there are plenty of places to take a dip and enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning corner of the UK. Why not challenge yourself to visit them all in 2024?
- Porthcurno Beach
- Gyllyngvase Beach
- Nanjizal Beach
- Sennen Cove
- Balmaluz Beach, St Ives
- St Michael's Mount / Marazion
- Porthgwarra Cove
- Gold Diggins Quarry
- Mousehole Tidal Pool
- Rinsey Cove
1. Porthcurno Beach
Located in the outermost edge of West Cornwall, Porthcurno Beach is a beautiful spot for wild swimming. The bright blue waters and white sandy beach make it look insanely tropical - if the sun is shining you will feel like you have left the UK! The beach is surrounded by cliffs and has a dramatic, almost otherworldly feel to it. Nearby there are plenty of hidden coves and rocky outcrops to explore, making it a great area to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
2. Gyllyngvase Beach
Affectionately nicknamed Gylly Beach, it is one of Cornwall's most popular beaches, and for good reason. Situated on the south coast, its sands are a short walk from the centre of the vibrant University town of Falmouth. The clear waters are sheltered from northerly swell and winds, meaning more often than not the sea is calm and serene - an incredible place to watch the sun rise. The beach is also home to a cafe and watersports hire centre for activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, should you feel like more than just a dip!
3. Nanjizal Beach
Nanjizal Beach is one of Cornwall's hidden gems, tucked away at the end of a long and winding path, getting there is an adventure in itself. The beach is home to a beautiful natural pool, perfect for wild swimming, as well as a stunning rock archway and boulder scattered shoreline. If you manage to go at the right time, sunlight streams through the gap in the rocks shining into the pool in a pretty special way giving the whole place an ethereal beauty.
4. Sennen Cove
Sennen Cove is a picturesque beach located on the western tip of Cornwall with views into endless Atlantic blue. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and when it’s calm it is idyllic for swimming. When the swell is rolling in it has incredible surf making it an ever popular spot with surfers. You can also get surf lessons here for a range of abilities. The nearby village also has shops, cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to explore all day.
5. Balmaluz Beach, St Ives
The harbour town of St Ives is home to this small and beautiful beach perfect for wild swimming on calmer days. Rugged yet nestled into the town, it’s white sand clear water could qualify it to be one of the prettiest spots on the list. The town also has a range of shops, cafes, galleries and restaurants, making it a great place to spend the day. In summer it might get a little busy so if you only want waves and the breeze for company, it’s best to swim early in the morning.
6. St Michael's Mount / Marazion
St Michael's Mount is a stunning tidal island that can be walked to at low tide or boated to at high. The island is home to a range of historic buildings, including a castle and a medieval church, as well as shallow waters perfect for swimming. The sea here is usually clear and has seaweed forests surrounding the mount where you may catch a glimpse of a seahorse if you’re really lucky! There is also the option to hire SUPs and get kitesurfing lessons here so there are plenty of activities whatever the weather.
7. Porthgwarra Cove
Porthgwarra Cove is a small sandy beach hidden by cliffs, located on the south coast. Once a busy fishing cove, Porthgwarra is now populated with wildflowers and birdlife. It may look familiar as it's perfectly blue waters also earnt its feature in the TV series Poldark.
8. Gold Diggins Quarry
If you want to mix things up and go inland then check out Gold Diggings Quarry, located on Bodmin moor. This remote and beautiful body of water has a tranquil and ancient feel, nestled between rocks and rolling moors it’s a unique spot. If you do go and visit this spot for a swim, there is also some great hiking and views nearby so it would be a great place to spend the day away from crowds. Just remember if you want a hot coffee afterwards, you’ll need to bring your own!
9. Mousehole Tidal Pool
A small but beautiful tidal pool, which feels a bit more like a person-sized rock pool. A short walk from the car park and cafe, this tidal pool would be a good place to go if you’re feeling less than confident surfing in the open sea. Remember to check the tide times when you want to visit - at high tide it will be under water. It’s on the south coast of Cornwall, not too far from Marazion and St Michael’s Mount, so if you wanted to tick off a few swims in one day, these two would make a great pair!
10. Rinsey Cove
Rinsey Cove is a secluded beach nestled between high cliffs located on the south coast of Cornwall not far from Praa beach. The ocean here is surrounded by interesting boulders and stacks, popular with rock climbers and some of which you can jump off at high tide. The rugged wild cliffs are also popular with rock climbers. If you keep an eye out you may even see the rare birds often associated with Cornwall: the Choughs, flying overhead as you follow the path down to the cove. You’ll be able to identify them by their bright orange beaks and black feathers.
Cornwall has an abundance of stunning wild swimming spots, each with their own unique charm and beauty. Whether you're looking for a secluded cove, a natural plunge pool, or a freshwater lake, Cornwall has it all. With clear waters, hidden coves, rock pools and marine life to discover, wild swimming in Cornwall will leave you feeling inspired and alive. So grab your swimsuit, pack a picnic, and head out to one of Cornwall's many stunning wild swimming spots for a day well spent.
Han Fisher is a Cornish native, a multi-media creative, sustainable product designer and adventure sports enthusiast. She believes in promoting connection with the outdoors and protecting natural eco-systems. She is also a SUP and Snowboard instructor, Wild Swimmer, Horse Rider, Sailor and Motorcyclist. Han believes in sharing uplifting stories of people and the outdoors wherever possible.
Photography and adventures at: Over Land And Sea
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