6 best spots to go kayaking in Cornwall

The beautiful county of Cornwall has an abundance of idyllic harbour villages, sandy beaches, towering cliffs, seaside resorts and wild moorland. It’s easy to see why Cornwall is so popular, but for a truly unique experience, get away from the crowds and get on the water!

Paddle along the spectacular Cornish coastline, discover secluded beaches, explore caves, spot all kinds of wonderful wildlife and sealife, and take to the calm inland rivers for an unforgettable family trip. If you love adventure, then kayaking in Cornwall should be on your bucket list. 

There are plenty of beginner spots and places to rent canoes and kayaks and, if you’re an advanced paddler, you won’t be disappointed with recommendations of the best places to kayak in Cornwall. There is something for everyone…

Sea kayaking in Cornwall

Cornwall has hundreds of sandy beaches and over 400 miles of incredible coastline. What better way to see it all than by paddling right next to it? The south coast of Cornwall, known as the ‘Cornish Riviera’, offers clear, calm waters that make you feel like you’re a million miles away from the typical English seaside, while the rugged north coast is exposed to the swells of the Atlantic.

1. Best kayaking spot for spotting sea life in north Cornwall

St Ives is a paddlers’ heaven and could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean on a summer’s day. Gracefully glide through clear blue waters, discover sea caves and get up close and personal with basking sharks, dolphins and seals. The crescent-shaped St Ives Bay and nearby Godrevy Head, with its famous lighthouse (the inspiration behind Virginia Woolf’s famous novel),  are simply stunning from the water. Enjoy at your own pace in your kayak. Head to St Ives Surf School to rent kayaks and book tours. 

2. Best kayaking spot for stunning scenery in south Cornwall

There are so many reasons to visit the Roseland Peninsula, and St Mawes is one of them. Simply bursting with history and coastal charm, the best way to see the village and its breathtaking surroundings is by kayak. Hire single and double kayaks at St Mawes Sit-on Kayaks. Drift along the peaceful Percuil River as it gently flows against the dazzling backdrop of the Roseland Peninsula, where you will find secluded creeks, jagged cliffs, quaint fishing villages and secret sandy beaches. If you’re lucky, a playful seal might accompany you on your adventure.

3. Best kayaking spot for a peaceful paddle in North Cornwall

Newbie kayakers after a peaceful paddle should head out from pretty Port Gaverne in North Cornwall – the quaint, sheltered cove means the sea is calm. Sea kayaks, wetsuits and tours are available from Cornish Rock Tors. Admire breathtaking views of the magical coastline, then paddle over to Port Isaac, the setting of TV series Doc Martin. Stop for a dip – the gentle slope of the small sandy beach means it’s great for swimming – while any children in your group will love exploring the rock pools. Head to the Golden Lion for a spot of lunch – expect hearty pub grub including fish and chips, Porthilly mussels and seafood platters.

River kayaking in Cornwall

Forget the coast – you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to inland waterways in Cornwall! If you’ve never tried river kayaking, this is the place to do it. Kayaking is not just a sport, it’s an experience, where you can see the county’s most beautiful and untamed parts, far from the crowds and towns. With an abundance of creeks and rivers, you’ll be enchanted by the variety of wildlife, woodlands and countryside on offer.

1. Best kayaking for a family adventure and nature enthusiasts

The Helford River is nestled in between Falmouth Bay and the Lizard Peninsula. This large estuary is renowned for its dazzling scenery and marine ecology, and kayaking is an ideal way to soak up all the natural beauty. Hire all your kit from Helford River Boats, then head to Frenchman’s Creek, a hidden part of the Helford River and Bosahan Cove. Bordered by pretty woods and valleys, this pristine secluded creek was made famous by Daphne Du Maurier’s classic novel. It’s easy to see why the author felt so inspired to write about it. 

2. Best kayaking for wildlife (and book) lovers

Forget messing about in boats, get your kayak out onto the sparkling River Fowey. Paddle from Golant up to the creeks around Lerryn, which influenced Kenneth Grahame’s classic book, The Wind in the Willows. The woods on either side are thought to have been Grahame’s inspiration for the Wild Wood. The dreamy scenery has drawn artists, writers and bird watchers here for many years – keep an eye out for kingfishers, herons, waders and egrets. Book tours and kayaks with Encounter Cornwall.

3. Best kayaking spot for a long scenic paddle

Dividing Devon and Cornwall, the River Tamar is the longest river in Cornwall. Stretching 61 miles from source to sea, it’s in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Enjoy a day of paddling, this time by canoe with Tamar Trails, slowly wending your way through the hidden landscape of woodland, fields and farmland, the industrial village of Calstock, historic bridges, rolling hills and dramatic rocky crags.

Feel inspired to take to the water in a kayak? Check out these coastal and riverside holiday cottages.