Boscastle Beaches

Overview

Boscastle is a famously picturesque harbour village nestled on North Cornwall's dramatic coast. While Boscastle itself doesn't offer a large sandy beach within the village, it serves as an excellent and atmospheric base for exploring the stunning coastline nearby. Visitors should note that reaching the best sandy stretches requires a short drive, making a car essential for a beach-focused holiday here.

Just a short journey away, you'll find some fantastic beaches. Trebarwith Strand, the closest main beach, is renowned for its dramatic setting and how it vanishes at high tide. To the north lies Crackington Haven, a favourite with locals offering a more sheltered experience often suitable for families. For breathtaking scenery, the beautiful Bossiney Cove near Tintagel is hard to beat, though access involves a steep path. Remember that tide times significantly impact beach size and accessibility along this coast.

For those seeking waves, the iconic surf spot Polzeath Beach is a popular day trip destination further down the coast. While these highlights offer diverse experiences, from dramatic cliffs to surfing hotspots, they are just a few examples. Our full guide details many other beaches and secluded coves accessible from Boscastle, including those reached via the scenic South West Coast Path for a wilder feel.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Boscastle a good place for a beach holiday?

Boscastle is a picturesque harbour village perfect for exploring the North Cornwall coast and enjoying coastal walks, but it doesn't have its own large sandy beach. If spending all day on a wide sandy beach is your priority, towns like Bude might be more suitable. However, Boscastle is an excellent base, with several beautiful beaches like Trebarwith Strand and Crackington Haven just a short drive away.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

Can you swim in the sea at Boscastle?

Swimming is possible in Boscastle harbour around high tide, but caution is needed due to boat traffic and currents. It's not a typical beach swimming spot. For better and safer sea swimming, head to nearby lifeguarded beaches such as Trebarwith Strand or Crackington Haven (check seasonal lifeguard cover). Always check tide times and local water quality information.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

What are the closest sandy beaches to Boscastle?

The nearest significant sandy beaches requiring a short drive are Trebarwith Strand (around 10-15 minutes south) and Crackington Haven (around 15-20 minutes north). Bossiney Cove, near Tintagel, is also relatively close but has steep access. These offer classic sandy stretches, especially at low tide.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

Bossiney Cove

Do you need a car to get to beaches from Boscastle?

Yes, having a car is highly recommended for accessing the main sandy beaches near Boscastle. While the South West Coast Path runs through the village offering walks to smaller coves, reaching larger beaches like Trebarwith Strand or Crackington Haven efficiently requires driving. Public transport is limited in this rural area.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

Are beaches near Boscastle suitable for families?

Yes, several nearby beaches are family-friendly. Trebarwith Strand (especially at low tide) and Crackington Haven offer sand for playing, rock pools for exploring, and facilities like cafes and toilets. Be aware that access to some coves, like Bossiney, involves steep paths unsuitable for pushchairs or those with mobility issues. Always check tide times as beach size varies significantly.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

Are dogs allowed on beaches near Boscastle?

Dog policies vary by beach and time of year. Some beaches, like Trebarwith Strand, generally allow dogs year-round. Others, such as Crackington Haven, often have seasonal restrictions (e.g., daytime bans from May to September). It's essential to check the specific rules for each beach on council websites or local signage before visiting with your dog.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

What's parking like at the beaches near Boscastle?

Parking at popular beaches like Trebarwith Strand and Crackington Haven can be challenging, especially during peak season (summer holidays, sunny weekends). Both have pay-and-display car parks, but they fill up quickly. Arriving early or later in the day is advisable. Smaller coves often have very limited roadside parking or none at all.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

Is it better to stay in Boscastle or Tintagel for beaches?

Both Boscastle and Tintagel are scenic villages offering access to the North Cornwall coast, but neither has a large sandy beach directly within the village itself. Tintagel is slightly closer to Bossiney Cove and Trebarwith Strand. Boscastle has its unique harbour charm. Both require driving to reach the main family-friendly sandy beaches. The choice depends on personal preference regarding village atmosphere and nearby attractions.

Bossiney Cove

Trebarwith Strand

People Also Ask

Are there any quiet or hidden beaches near Boscastle?

Yes, the coastline around Boscastle has several smaller, more secluded coves accessible mainly via the South West Coast Path. Examples include Benoath Cove (near Bossiney) and The Strangles (south of Crackington Haven). Access usually involves steep descents, and they lack facilities, offering a wilder, quieter experience. Check tides carefully as access can be restricted.

Benoath Cove

Crackington Haven

What is the water temperature like for swimming near Boscastle?

The sea temperature on the North Cornwall coast is typically cool, even in summer. Expect average water temperatures between 15-18°C (59-64°F) during July and August. Many people find a wetsuit necessary for comfortable swimming or watersports, especially for extended periods.

Can you surf near Boscastle?

Yes, surfing is possible at nearby beaches. Trebarwith Strand and Crackington Haven can offer decent conditions for surfing, particularly suitable for beginners and intermediates when the swell is right. While not as famous as spots further west like Polzeath or Newquay, they provide good local options. Surf hire or lessons may be available seasonally at Trebarwith.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven

What is the beach actually like in Boscastle harbour?

Boscastle harbour itself doesn't have a typical sandy beach. At low tide, a small area of pebbles, sand, and rocks is revealed within the harbour walls. It's interesting for exploring rock pools, watching harbour activity, and accessing the coast path, but it's not a place for sunbathing or extensive sand play like the beaches nearby.

Are the main beaches near Boscastle lifeguarded?

The main beaches popular with families, such as Trebarwith Strand and Crackington Haven, usually have RNLI lifeguard patrols during the main holiday season (typically Easter holidays, May half-term, and daily through July and August). Smaller coves and the harbour area are not lifeguarded. Always check the RNLI website or beach signage for specific patrol dates and times.

Trebarwith Strand

Crackington Haven