If you’re visiting the Helford River, you will be spoilt by the quality and variety of beaches and swimming spots on offer. The Helford cuts through the dramatic Lizard peninsula, so you can choose between relaxed wooded riversides and sandy beaches on rugged coasts. Stay for longer and you can visit them all! We have seven beautiful cottages and barn conversions you can choose from.
Please note, these beaches do not have lifeguard cover unless specifically stated.
Grebe, Helford River
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On the north side of the river lies a shingle beach of Grebe. Surrounded by woodland, you’ll feel miles away from the busy north coast beaches. Great for barbeques and picnics, it’s a great spot to watch boats navigating their way from the ocean into the gentle Helford waterways. Park at the nearby National Trust car park.
Helford Passage Beach, Helford River
Also on the north side of the river is the Helford Passage Beach, a lovely shingle beach surrounded by picturesque cottages. This is where you can catch the ferry to the Helford Village in the summer months. The Ferryboat Inn is also a big draw, a 300-year-old pub serving good food and views. Be careful of river traffic when swimming.
Bosahan Cove, Helford River
For those looking for quieter, more adventurous beach spots, Bosahan will certainly do the job. It’s surrounded by ancient woodland and has stunning views of the river mouth. It’s not easy to get to, so you’re less likely find other people to cramp your style. Park in the Helford Village or St Anthony and walk the coastal path for over a mile.
Coverack, The Lizard
Moving to beaches in the Lizard, which are in easy reach from the Helford. Coverack is a charming fishing village perched on the east side of the peninsula. Low tide reveals a white and sandy beach near the harbour, backed by a sea wall. This is a popular spot for diving and windsurfing, and you can hire kayaks and stand up paddleboards in summer and autumn. Why not stay at our local apartment Epic View?
Kennack Sands, The Lizard
Moving down the coast sits Kennack Sands. Great for families, there’s seasonal lifeguard cover and lots of space for energetic children. Our tip would be to walk to the end of the beach furthest from the car park (behind the hill), which is often undiscovered by visitors. Dogs welcome from October to Easter.
Kynance Cove, The Lizard
Kynance Cove is an iconic beach in Cornwall, and even in the whole of the UK. Low tide reveals a white sandy beach, which winds through cliffs, rocks and caves. When the sea is gentle and the sun is strong, you’ll be blown away by the deep turquois sea. The café is great and we can thoroughly recommend the hot chocolates and pasties. Parking is at the National Trust car park.
Poldhu Cove, The Lizard
Our final stop is the small but very lovable Poldhu. Great for taking the whole clan, as it’s got seasonal lifeguard cover, a surf school and a fantastic café. It’s exposed, so watch out on more stormy days, but makes excellent bathing in calm conditions. Parking is next to the beach.
