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Place guide3 min readUpdated 10 Sept 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Treyarnon

Backed by sand dunes and low cliffs near Padstow, Treyarnon Bay is a west-facing sandy beach much loved by surfers. The Atlantic swell makes for fun waves, though the incoming tide can race in on the left-hand side, so it pays to take care.

Read the guide
The dune-backed sandy surf beach of Treyarnon Bay on Cornwall's north coast near Padstow.
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.

Treyarnon 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.

Treyarnon is a popular beach amongst surfers but can also be very dangerous as the tide comes in very quickly on the left hand side.

Sea Fishing in Treyarnon area

This whole area is good for bass and all species of flatfish if fishing off the beaches. The headlands are good fishing places for pollack, mackerel and the odd whiting or cod.

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

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 Treyarnon Bay?
Treyarnon Bay is on Cornwall's north coast near Padstow, just a short walk around the headland from Constantine Bay, along the coast between Padstow and Newquay.
What is Treyarnon known for?
Treyarnon is known as a popular sandy surfing beach backed by dunes, catching plenty of Atlantic swell while still being a favourite with families on calmer days.
Is Treyarnon Bay safe for swimming?
Treyarnon can be lively: the tide comes in quickly on the left-hand side, so it is wise to check conditions, take local advice and stay within any lifeguarded area in season.
What is there to do in Treyarnon?
Surfing, bodyboarding and beach days are the main draws, along with rock pools at low tide and clifftop walks. The wider area is also good for bass and flatfish fishing off the beaches.
Is Treyarnon worth visiting?
Yes. With its dune-backed sands, reliable surf and easy link to neighbouring Constantine Bay, Treyarnon is a great choice for surfers and beach lovers near Padstow.

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Small Cornish harbour with fishing boats moored in clear water

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Places and practical tips for days by the sea.

Grilled mackerel fillet with rocket and lemon on a plate

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Ideas for preparing, cooking and enjoying seafood.

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