North Cornwall, where the land meets the restless Atlantic, holds secrets etched by time and tides. Let’s explore these coastal gems.

Rock Beach: Where Sand, Sea, and Wagging Tails Meet
A pristine canvas of white sand framed by gentle dunes. The sun kisses your skin, and the salty breeze whispers tales of adventure. Whether you’re strolling leisurely or embarking on an energetic dog walk, this beach adapts to the tides, revealing more or less sandy expanse depending on the day.
Rise with the sun, and you’ll discover that Rock Beach wears its best attire at dawn. The Camel Estuary dances with light, and the tranquility is a balm for the soul. Bring your canine companion along—the beach welcomes dogs year-round. It’s as flat as a pancake, making it a paw-some playground for our four-legged friends.
If you’re based in charming Padstow, consider adding a dash of maritime magic to your day. Hop on the ferry, and let it whisk you across the water to Rock Beach. The journey itself becomes part of the experience—an extra dimension to your coastal escapade.
Here, the waves play coy. They don’t roar; they merely lap at the shore, inviting children and dogs to frolic. Sandcastles rise, tails wag, and laughter fills the air. Even in winter, when the beach empties of summer crowds, Rock Beach remains a treasure trove of solitude and serenity.
When the tide retreats, secrets emerge. Rock Beach and Daymer Bay join hands, creating an expansive playground. Picture your lively pet chasing after a tennis ball, sand flying, as you soak in the coastal panorama. It’s a game of fetch, hide-and-seek, and pure joy.
After all that romping, hunger strikes. Fear not! Nearby, you’ll find charming dog-friendly eateries. So, whether you’re a beachcomber, a dog enthusiast, or simply seeking solace by the sea, Rock Beach awaits.
Bring your curiosity, your furry companion, and a heart ready to be swept away.

Polzeath Beach: Where Surfing Dreams Come True
Polzeath has earned its reputation as a surfing hotspot. While advanced surfers might seek more exhilarating swells elsewhere, Polzeath’s long, consistent, slow-breaking waves are a haven for novice and intermediate surfers. Grab a board from Wavehunters Surf Hire and ride the Atlantic swells!
At low tide, Polzeath reveals its vast expanse of golden sands—a canvas for sunbathers, picnickers, and sandcastle architects. Little ones can explore rock pools beneath the cliffs, discovering sea life waiting for the next tide.
Polzeath Beach proudly wears its accolades. In 2024, it was both a Blue Flag Award winner and a recipient of the Seaside Award. These honors celebrate the beach’s commitment to the environment, water quality, and safety.
Polzeath’s charm extends beyond the waves. It has inspired poets and authors alike. Sir John Betjeman celebrated it in his works, while Laurence Binyon penned the Remembrance Day ode “For the Fallen” on nearby Pentire Headland. Enid Blyton’s Famous Five missed out on a trip to Polzeath in their first adventure—a literary nod to this coastal haven.
Princes William and Harry rode the waves here during their childhood, and former Prime Minister David Cameron holidayed nearby. Polzeath’s allure transcends generations and political affiliations.
Venture north of Polzeath Beach, and you’ll find the rugged Pentire Head peninsula. Keep your eyes peeled for puffins on offshore islands, coastal birds, seals, and playful dolphins. Nature puts on a show!
Polzeath Beach Car Park, located at the south end of the beach, is convenient and pay-and-display. If it’s full, other pay-and-display lots dot the area. The 96 bus line loops from Bodmin via Wadebridge, stopping right next to the beach.
Dog-Friendly?: Yes, but note the seasonal dog ban: from May 15th to September 30th, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10 am and 6 pm.

Daymer Bay: Where Tranquility Meets Golden Sands
A long, sheltered beach with soft, golden sands. Daymer Bay opens its arms wide, inviting beachgoers to bask in its beauty. The sands stretch out, eager to cradle sunbathers, picnickers, and curious souls. The beach sits at the mouth of the Camel Estuary, where the river meets the sea. This estuarine embrace creates a unique landscape—a blend of saltwater and freshwater magic. The gentle lapping of waves against the shore sets the rhythm for relaxation.
Look beyond the shoreline, and you’ll find undulating dunes—nature’s own sand sculptures. These dunes provide shelter from the coastal breeze and add an enchanting backdrop to your beach day. Daymer Bay welcomes our furry friends year-round. So, if you have a canine companion itching for a sandy romp, this is the place.
Just two miles away lies Polzeath, another beloved Cornish beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a coastal walk from Polzeath to Daymer Bay. The views along the way are like postcards come to life.
Nearby, you’ll find the charming village of Rock. It’s as if time slows down here—a place where boats bob in the estuary, and seafood whispers its siren song. Rock adds its own touch of magic to the Daymer Bay experience.
Bring your camera! The views—whether of the estuary, the dunes, or the distant cliffs—are worth capturing.
The beach shop at Daymer Bay is well stocked. From beach essentials to local treats, it’s a treasure trove.

Trebarwith Strand: Where Cliffs and Tides Shape the Coast.
If you’re a seasoned wave rider, Trebarwith Strand beckons. But beginners, take heed—the Atlantic swells here demand respect. This isn’t the gentle bunny slope; it’s the black diamond of surf spots.
Picture a place where cliffs cradle golden sands, and the sea whispers secrets. Trebarwith Strand, just two miles from Tintagel, is that gem. The journey here involves a steep-sided valley and a charming village named Treknow.
Dogs wag their tails year-round at Trebarwith. And during summer, vigilant lifeguards keep watch.
When the tide retreats, magic happens. Sand vanishes, revealing a rocky landscape—a playground of large, flattish rocks. It’s like stepping onto a lunar beach. But beware: the sea reclaims its territory swiftly. Check those tide times!
Imagine a sunny day at low tide. Trebarwith unveils its natural caves—some shallow, some eerie. Explore their depths, play in rock pools, and let your imagination roam.
Just off the beach, Gull Rock perches in the bay. Sea birds call it home, their wings brushing against the horizon.
Trebarwith Strand has graced the silver screen. It’s a muse for filmmakers: “Saving Grace” (2000), “Oscar and Lucinda” (1997), and even a Shakespearean twist in “Twelfth Night” (1996). Hollywood knows where to find beauty.
This family beach strikes the balance. A pub, cozy cafes, and essential toilets dot the landscape. It’s comfort without crowding. The main car park awaits with 130 spaces.