Where is Constantine Bay Beach?

Constantine Bay lies on Cornwall's north coast near Padstow, just west of the village of St Merryn and below Trevose Head. Booby's Bay sits to the north and Treyarnon Bay is a short walk around the headland.

What is Constantine Bay known for?

It is known as one of north Cornwall's top surf beaches, a west-facing break with a reef at its southern end. The wide sands, backing dunes and views to Trevose Head also make it a favourite for walking and family days when conditions are gentle.

What's the nearest town to Constantine Bay?

Padstow is the nearest town, a short drive to the east, with the village of St Merryn closer still for shops, cafes and pubs. Newquay lies further down the coast to the south.

Place guide3 min readUpdated 10 Sept 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Constantine Beach

Constantine Bay is a wide, west-facing sweep of sand near Padstow, backed by marram-topped dunes and framed by Trevose Head. A renowned surf beach that hoovers up Atlantic swell, it sits between Booby's Bay and a rocky reef, with strong rips and a shelving shore at high tide, so timing and care matter in the water.

Read the guide Browse coastline guides

Quick notes for your visit

Beach and cove guide

Plan your visit

A simple guide to the feel of the place, how to arrive, and what to keep in mind before you go.

Constantine Beach is the kind of place where the day is shaped by simple things: tide, weather, a picnic, and time to notice the coast properly.

Best forOpen coastal character with sand, pebbles, cliffs or coves depending on the tide and weather.

Families, beach days, coast paths, rock pools and relaxed exploring.

Getting thereParking, arrival and the practical first steps.

Plan the final walk from the car park and check whether the beach is easy with pushchairs, tired legs or beach bags.

What to look forA calmer way to plan with children or visitors.

A useful read before visiting with children, especially for tides, paths, facilities and simple beach expectations.

Before you goThe small checks that make the day easier.

Look up tide times, swimming guidance and weather before you go, especially on wilder beaches.

The full guide

Read straight through, or use the planning notes above to shape an easier coastal day.

Lifeguard cover changes by beach and season. Check the RNLI's current patrol dates before travelling, then follow local signs, flags and lifeguard advice on the day. Do not rely on a previous year's timetable.

Browse coastline guides

Beach Safety Guide

Common questions

Where is Constantine Bay Beach?: Constantine Bay lies on Cornwall's north coast near Padstow, just west of the village of St Merryn and below Trevose Head. Booby's Bay sits to the north and Treyarnon Bay is a short walk around the headland.
What is Constantine Bay known for?: It is known as one of north Cornwall's top surf beaches, a west-facing break with a reef at its southern end. The wide sands, backing dunes and views to Trevose Head also make it a favourite for walking and family days when conditions are gentle.
What's the nearest town to Constantine Bay?: Padstow is the nearest town, a short drive to the east, with the village of St Merryn closer still for shops, cafes and pubs. Newquay lies further down the coast to the south.

Two ways to make a day of it

Fresh air, good food and a bit of headspace. Here are two places to start.

Small Cornish harbour with fishing boats moored in clear water

Explore the coastline

Places and practical tips for days by the sea.

Grilled mackerel fillet with rocket and lemon on a plate

Find your next recipe

Ideas for preparing, cooking and enjoying seafood.

Editorial illustrations; explore the guides for place and recipe details.