Where is Porthcothan Bay?

Porthcothan Bay sits on the north coast of Cornwall, a few miles south of Padstow and just south of Treyarnon Bay, along the stretch of coast between Padstow and Newquay.

What is Porthcothan Bay known for?

It is known as a sheltered, narrow sandy cove framed by craggy cliffs, with a small stream crossing the beach. At low tide it joins up with neighbouring patches of sand to reveal plenty of rock pools.

What is there to do at Porthcothan Bay?

It is a lovely beach for exploring rock pools at low tide, paddling in the sheltered cove and walking the cliffs on either side. The wider area is also popular for sea fishing, with bass and flatfish among the catches.

Is Porthcothan Bay worth visiting?

Yes. If you like quieter, scenic coves rather than big resort beaches, Porthcothan's sheltered sands, stream and rock pools make it a relaxed spot for families and walkers alike.

How do you get to Porthcothan Bay?

Porthcothan lies just off the B3276 coast road between Padstow and Newquay in North Cornwall. The South West Coast Path also runs along the clifftops above the bay.

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Place guide3 min readUpdated 10 Sept 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Porthcothan

Tucked between high craggy cliffs on Cornwall's north coast, Porthcothan Bay is a sheltered sandy cove with a little stream running across it. At low tide it opens out to join smaller pockets of sand, making it a brilliant spot for poking about in the rock pools.

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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.

Porthcothan 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.

Porthcothan Bay is a narrow sheltered cove with a lovely sandy beach which at low tide joins up with smaller areas of sand to form a really great place to explore rock pools.

The beach has a small stream running though it.

The cliffs on either side of the beach form a lovely picturesque scene.

Sea Fishing in this area

The beaches are good for bass fishing. You can also catch some decent sized turbot and plaice. We recommend fishing on the incoming tide as you are more likely to catch.

Browse coastline guides

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.

Beach Safety Guide

Common questions

Where is Porthcothan Bay?: Porthcothan Bay sits on the north coast of Cornwall, a few miles south of Padstow and just south of Treyarnon Bay, along the stretch of coast between Padstow and Newquay.
What is Porthcothan Bay known for?: It is known as a sheltered, narrow sandy cove framed by craggy cliffs, with a small stream crossing the beach. At low tide it joins up with neighbouring patches of sand to reveal plenty of rock pools.
What is there to do at Porthcothan Bay?: It is a lovely beach for exploring rock pools at low tide, paddling in the sheltered cove and walking the cliffs on either side. The wider area is also popular for sea fishing, with bass and flatfish among the catches.
Is Porthcothan Bay worth visiting?: Yes. If you like quieter, scenic coves rather than big resort beaches, Porthcothan's sheltered sands, stream and rock pools make it a relaxed spot for families and walkers alike.
How do you get to Porthcothan Bay?: Porthcothan lies just off the B3276 coast road between Padstow and Newquay in North Cornwall. The South West Coast Path also runs along the clifftops above the bay.

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.