Cornwall, England, United Kingdom

Crantock Beaches

Overview

Crantock, England, is a delightful destination for beach lovers seeking beautiful Cornish coastline. It's known for its stunning sandy shores and a generally relaxed atmosphere, offering a peaceful alternative to busier nearby spots. Families often find Crantock especially appealing, and it's a welcoming place for visitors with dogs looking to enjoy the seaside.

The main attraction is Crantock beach itself, the heart of the area with picturesque scenery and varied activities. Nearby, the world-famous Fistral Beach in Newquay draws surfers of all levels. For those who appreciate vast stretches of golden sand ideal for long walks, Perranporth Beach is a fantastic option. A short drive away, Watergate Bay combines dramatic cliffs with exciting watersports.

If you're searching for a more secluded spot, Porth Joke Beach is a beautiful cove cherished by locals for its tranquility. These are just some of the highlights you'll find. Our guide features a more extensive list of beaches in and around Crantock, ensuring there's a perfect stretch of sand for every preference, from adventure to pure relaxation.

FAQ

Is Crantock beach good for swimming?

Crantock Beach is generally considered safe for swimming, especially on calm days and when lifeguards are on duty. The beach has clear, gently shelving waters. However, it's important to be aware of the River Gannel, which flows into the sea at the northern end of the beach, as it can create strong currents, particularly at certain stages of the tide. Lifeguards advise not swimming near the river flow and always recommend swimming between the designated red and yellow flags.
Crantock
Crantock

Is Crantock beach dog friendly?

Yes, Crantock Beach is dog-friendly all year round. Dogs are welcome off-lead but should be kept under control, especially around other visitors and wildlife. There are dog poo bins available in the National Trust car park.
Crantock
Crantock

How much is parking at Crantock beach?

There is a National Trust car park at Crantock Beach (postcode TR8 5RN). Parking is free for National Trust members who scan their cards. For non-members, charges apply and can vary, for example, £2.50 for up to 1 hour, £5 for up to 4 hours, and £9 for all day (prices subject to change). Payment can often be made by PayByPhone app, as card machines may not always be reliable and don't give change. There are also other privately-owned car parks nearby, including one at West Pentire, and their prices may differ.
Crantock
Crantock

What are the toilets and facilities like at Crantock beach?

Public toilets are located near the main National Trust car park at Crantock Beach. There are also cafes and beach shops nearby, some at the car park and others in Crantock village or across the River Gannel. For example, Flotsam Coffee (not National Trust) operates seasonally near the beach. The Fern Pit Cafe, overlooking the beach, is a well-known spot. Some facilities may be seasonal.
Crantock
Crantock

What accommodation options are near Crantock beach?

There are various accommodation options near Crantock Beach, including holiday parks like Crantock Beach Holiday Park (Parkdean Resorts), cottages, and holiday homes for rent in Crantock village. Some campsites are also in the vicinity. Newquay, being a larger town nearby, offers a wider range of hotels and B&Bs.
See the full list of accommodation options here.
Crantock
Crantock

What is the best time of day to visit Crantock beach?

Low tide is often considered the best time to visit Crantock Beach. At low tide, a vast expanse of golden sand is revealed, providing ample space for walking, playing, and exploring rock pools. It's also when features like Piper's Hole cave might be accessible (always check tide times before exploring caves). However, the beach can be enjoyed at other times too, though it becomes smaller at high tide.
Crantock
Crantock

Is Crantock beach good for families?

Yes, Crantock Beach is considered very family-friendly. It offers a large sandy area for children to play, relatively calm waters for paddling (especially in the Gannel estuary, with caution), and rock pools to explore at low tide. Lifeguard services are available during peak season, adding to the safety.
Crantock
Crantock

Can you surf at Crantock beach?

Yes, Crantock Beach is a popular spot for surfing and other watersports like bodyboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. It offers various breaks suitable for different skill levels, including Bowgie Left and waves near the Gannel estuary. Surf schools and hire facilities, such as Big Green Adventures, operate from the beach.
Crantock
Crantock

People Also Ask

How do you get to Crantock beach from Newquay?

Crantock Beach is about a 10-15 minute drive from Newquay town centre. You can also walk from Newquay via the South West Coast Path, which takes around 45 minutes and offers scenic views. Additionally, the Go Cornwall bus service 85/85A runs between Newquay and Truro, stopping in Crantock village, which is a short walk from the beach. A seasonal foot ferry sometimes operates across the Gannel Estuary from Fern Pit Cafe to Crantock.
Crantock
Crantock

What should I be aware of regarding tides and safety at Crantock beach?

The tide at Crantock can come in very quickly due to the flatness of the sands, so it's crucial to be aware of tide times. The River Gannel can create strong currents, especially during certain tidal stages, and it's advised not to swim or use inflatables in the main river channel. Always swim when lifeguards are on duty and between the designated flags. Be cautious near the base of sand dunes as they can be unstable, and be aware of the possibility of weever fish at low tide (wearing beach shoes is advisable). Some reports mention quicksand near the river edge and towards West Pentire.
Crantock
Crantock

Are there any hidden gems or local quirks at Crantock beach?

Yes, Piper's Hole is a small cave accessible at low tide (check tide times carefully) located in the cliffs on the west side of the beach. Inside, there's a carving of a woman's face and a verse, a poignant local legend dating back to the early 1900s. The dunes and Rushy Green behind the beach are important wildlife habitats. The area around West Pentire is also known for its vibrant wildflower displays in late spring/early summer.
Crantock
Crantock

Is Crantock beach accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues?

Accessibility at Crantock Beach can be challenging. While there is a more level path from the right-hand corner of the National Trust car park to the beach, access generally involves walking over sand dunes or uneven paths. Some sources state there is no specific wheelchair access and poor mobility access. Blue Badge holders can park for free in the National Trust car park.
Crantock
Crantock

When is the best time of year to visit Crantock for a beach holiday?

Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is generally considered the best time for a beach holiday at Crantock, offering warmer weather, longer daylight hours, and lifeguard services. Summer (June-August) is peak season and can be busy. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, while autumn provides a quieter experience with milder temperatures.
Crantock
Crantock

How does Crantock beach compare to Fistral beach in Newquay?

Crantock Beach is often described as a more tranquil and family-oriented alternative to the bustling Fistral Beach in Newquay. While Fistral is world-renowned for its surfing conditions and vibrant atmosphere, Crantock offers a large expanse of golden sand, dunes, and the Gannel estuary, providing a generally calmer environment. Crantock is also popular for surfing but can feel less crowded, especially away from the main river mouth area. Both are dog-friendly year-round.
Crantock
Crantock
Fistral Beach
Fistral Beach

Do I need to worry about unstable dunes at Crantock Beach?

Yes, visitors are advised to take extra care around the dune system at Crantock Beach. The dunes can be unstable with steep drops in places, and it's recommended to stay clear from the base of any sand cliffs and not allow children to play near them. Stick to marked paths where possible.
Crantock
Crantock

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The fastest way to find the best Crantock Beaches

Crantock Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Crantock: Weather Today

📅 Friday, July 25, 2025
Today might not be ideal for the beach. Expect a mostly cloudy day with a chance of drizzle. The maximum air temperature will be 18.8 °C. The wind will be moderate, with stronger gusts possible. The sea temperature is 18.1 °C, and the waves are moderate in height. The UV index will reach 6.95, so take precautions if the sun peeks through the clouds.
🌬️

Air

Low / High14.5°C/18.8°C
Feels Like (High)18.2°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature18.1 °C
Wave Height0.8 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0.4 mm
Rain Duration3 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:39/21:14
Sunshine Hours9.4 hrs
UV Index6.95
Cloud Cover72%
💨

Wind

Speed17 km/h
Gusts29.2 km/h
DirectionW

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