Porthallow is a small cove on the eastern coast of the Lizard peninsula in southern Cornwall, set among low cliffs and woodland.

Why is Porthallow famous?

It marks the official halfway point of the 630-mile South West Coast Path, commemorated by a granite monument set on the beach.

What is the beach at Porthallow like?

The beach is largely shingle and is backed by a car park, so it is easy to reach. A few working fishing boats still use the cove.

What is there to do in Porthallow?

Visitors walk the South West Coast Path, explore the cove and its rock pools and marine life, and watch the boats from the village's quiet waterfront.

What sort of fishing is there around Porthallow?

This is well-known bass country, with anglers also catching pollack, mackerel, wrasse and garfish, often fishing from the rocks at either end of the beach.

Place guide3 min readUpdated 8 Apr 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Porthallow

A former pilchard port on the Lizard's quieter eastern shore, Porthallow is a peaceful shingle cove where a few fishing boats still pull up on the beach. It is best known as the official halfway point of the South West Coast Path, marked by a granite monument above the sand.

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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.

Porthallow 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.

Like many of the coastal villages around Cornwall, Porthallow was once a busy fishing port where pilchards were the main catch. A few fishing boats still remain at Porthallow and it is also popular amongst anglers who fish from the rocks on each end of the beach.

The beach itself is quite shingly and is backed by a large car park so access is easy.

Sea Fishing in this area

This area is big bass country. You can also catch large pollack, many mackerel, wrasse and garfish in this area.

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Common questions

Where is Porthallow?: Porthallow is a small cove on the eastern coast of the Lizard peninsula in southern Cornwall, set among low cliffs and woodland.
Why is Porthallow famous?: It marks the official halfway point of the 630-mile South West Coast Path, commemorated by a granite monument set on the beach.
What is the beach at Porthallow like?: The beach is largely shingle and is backed by a car park, so it is easy to reach. A few working fishing boats still use the cove.
What is there to do in Porthallow?: Visitors walk the South West Coast Path, explore the cove and its rock pools and marine life, and watch the boats from the village's quiet waterfront.
What sort of fishing is there around Porthallow?: This is well-known bass country, with anglers also catching pollack, mackerel, wrasse and garfish, often fishing from the rocks at either end of the beach.

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.