Gunwalloe is on the west coast of the Lizard Peninsula in West Cornwall, on the South West Coast Path between Poldhu and Penrose, a few miles from Porthleven.

What is Gunwalloe known for?

Gunwalloe is known for Church Cove, with its historic clifftop church and separate bell tower, and for neighbouring Dollar Cove, named after silver coins said to come from a 17th-century shipwreck.

Why is Dollar Cove called that?

Dollar Cove takes its name from the silver coins, or 'dollars', that are said to wash up after storms, reputedly from a ship lost nearby in the 17th century. Part of the cove is sandy and part rocky with good rock pools.

What is there to do in Gunwalloe?

You can relax on the sandy beach at Church Cove, visit the little Church of the Storms, explore Dollar Cove's rock pools and walk the coast path towards Poldhu and Mullion. The beaches are also good for bass fishing.

Is Gunwalloe worth visiting?

Yes. With its sandy coves, distinctive clifftop church and treasure-tinged legends, Gunwalloe is one of the most charming and characterful spots on the Lizard Peninsula.

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Place guide3 min readUpdated 10 Sept 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Gunwalloe

On the west side of the Lizard Peninsula, Gunwalloe is home to the pretty sands of Church Cove, watched over by a little church tucked below the cliff with its own separate bell tower. Next door lies Dollar Cove, where silver coins are said to wash up after storms.

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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.

Gunwalloe 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.

Church Cove

Church Cove at Gunwalloe is a pretty sandy beach with a little church situated below the cliff. The church has a separate bell tower.

Check the RNLI's current Church Cove patrol dates and local flags before visiting. Seasonal lifeguard cover does not make the water safe in every condition; supervise children closely and follow advice on the day.

Dollar Cove

Dollar Cove is part sandy and part rocky with the rocks forming some great rock pools.

Silver dollars are allegedly washed up following storms and are said to come from the wreck of a ship which sank in the 17th Century.

Fishing Cove

Fishing Cove is a sandy and pebbly beach. It has a small slipway at one end but has very little other facilities. The sea can be dangerous and it is therefore not a good beach for families.

Sea Fishing in Gunwalloe area

Good sized bass can be caught from the beaches and also from the headland behind the church. You should also be able to catch a variety of flat fish in this area.

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Common questions

Where is Gunwalloe?: Gunwalloe is on the west coast of the Lizard Peninsula in West Cornwall, on the South West Coast Path between Poldhu and Penrose, a few miles from Porthleven.
What is Gunwalloe known for?: Gunwalloe is known for Church Cove, with its historic clifftop church and separate bell tower, and for neighbouring Dollar Cove, named after silver coins said to come from a 17th-century shipwreck.
Why is Dollar Cove called that?: Dollar Cove takes its name from the silver coins, or 'dollars', that are said to wash up after storms, reputedly from a ship lost nearby in the 17th century. Part of the cove is sandy and part rocky with good rock pools.
What is there to do in Gunwalloe?: You can relax on the sandy beach at Church Cove, visit the little Church of the Storms, explore Dollar Cove's rock pools and walk the coast path towards Poldhu and Mullion. The beaches are also good for bass fishing.
Is Gunwalloe worth visiting?: Yes. With its sandy coves, distinctive clifftop church and treasure-tinged legends, Gunwalloe is one of the most charming and characterful spots on the Lizard Peninsula.

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.