Wide amber sands, rolling breakers and tranquil seclusion – a holiday in Mawgan Porth is the perfect place to get away from it all. Possibly one of the north coast of Cornwall’s best-hidden secrets, this wide arc of sand is a true wonder. It has the same great surf as the rest of this stunning coastline but is just far enough away from the bigger resorts, such as Newquay and Padstow, to be free of crowds – ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
The area once known as Porthglyvyan – meaning ‘the cove of the little wooded valley river’ – still attracts tourists but has not lost its charm. Excavations in the 1950s found a burial ground dating back to the 10th Century, but the minimal development in the area means that the stunning views out to sea are probably similar to those seen by the people who lived around there a thousand years ago.
Sheltered by high cliffs on each side, west-facing, award-winning Mawgan Porth beach is loved by families for its rockpools, cave and stream, and space for traditional games and kite-flying. There’s also disabled access and a year-round dog-friendly policy. It’s generally safe to swim here but there’s a seasonal lifeguard for reassurance.
Nearby, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Carnewas, Porthcothan, Treyarnon Bay, Constantine Bay, Mother Ivey’s Bay and Harlyn Bay – among some of the most picturesque stretches of coastline that Cornwall has to offer. Neighbouring Watergate Bay and its famous surfing beach offers a choice of watersports. Up the valley road leading away from the beach is sleepy Mawgan, a tree-dappled, village-green idyll with shops and a pub.
Coastal tracks run the length of Cornwall, and you can amble north all the way to Padstow, an old Cornish fishing town and home to Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth restaurants, taking in the beautiful Bedruthan Steps (stop for a cream tea in the clifftop café at Carnewas) and wild Trevose Head, with its breathtaking views and lighthouse, a popular spot for nesting birds.
Despite Cornwall’s ever-growing popularity, your tranquil holiday in Mawgan Porth will be ideal for watching and walking the wild and unspoilt coastline, breathing in clean sea air and relaxing.
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