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Place guide3 min readUpdated 10 Sept 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Tregonhawke Beach

Tregonhawke forms part of Whitsand Bay, a near three-mile run of sand strung along the cliffs of south-east Cornwall's Rame Peninsula. Reached by steep cliff steps, it rewards the descent with big skies, rocky outcrops and one of the region's finest stretches of beach.

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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.

Tregonhawke 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

Common questions

Where is Tregonhawke beach?
Tregonhawke lies on Whitsand Bay in south-east Cornwall, on the Rame Peninsula across the water from Plymouth, with access down steep cliff steps.
What is Tregonhawke known for?
It is part of Whitsand Bay, widely regarded as one of east Cornwall's finest beaches, with high cliffs, a long sandy expanse at low water and rocky coves to explore.
Is Tregonhawke part of Whitsand Bay?
Yes. Tregonhawke is one section of the long Whitsand Bay, which stretches for roughly three miles along the cliffs of the Rame Peninsula.

Two ways to make a day of it

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

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