The full guide
Read straight through, or use the planning notes above to shape an easier coastal day.
Porthowan
Porthtowan has a very large sandy beach which is great for surfing. The engine house standing on the cliff serves as a reminder of Porthtowan’s history is as a mining village. Tourism was first discovered when Porthtowan became a popular Victorian seaside resort.
Sea Fishing in Porthtowan area
This area provides excellent bass beaches and all species of flatfish. In the autumn you will also catch codling and whiting in this area.
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.
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.
Common questions
- Where is Porthtowan?
- Porthtowan is on the north coast of Cornwall, within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty between Portreath and St Agnes. Chapel Porth lies just along the coast to the north.
- What is Porthtowan known for?
- Porthtowan is known for its large sandy surf beach and its mining heritage. A former engine house on the cliff is a reminder of the copper and tin mines that once worked this stretch of coast before it became a Victorian seaside resort.
- What is there to do in Porthtowan?
- You can surf, explore the rock pools, and walk the cliff path past old mine workings towards Chapel Porth and the iconic Wheal Coates engine houses. The beach has cafes and a relaxed surf-village feel.
- Is Porthtowan good for surfing?
- Porthtowan picks up plenty of Atlantic swell and is popular with experienced surfers, though it can produce powerful, hollow waves. Beginners should take care and follow lifeguard guidance and local advice on conditions.
- How do you get to Porthtowan?
- Porthtowan is reached by road from the A30 near Redruth, with parking behind the beach. The South West Coast Path links it on foot to Chapel Porth, St Agnes and Portreath.
