Hayle Beaches

Overview

Hayle is a fantastic choice for a beach holiday in Cornwall, renowned for its incredible stretch of golden sands. These vast beaches are generally great for families, offering plenty of space to play and explore. Whether you're looking to swim in the sea or catch some waves, Hayle's coastline provides excellent opportunities, though it's wise to be mindful of conditions, especially near the estuary. The area is also a well-known spot for surfing enthusiasts, offering a different feel to the often smaller coves found elsewhere in Cornwall.

The magnificent expanse of sand, often referred to as Hayle's 'three miles of golden sand', includes several distinct areas. Near the town, you'll find the popular Hayle Towans. Among the editor's highlights are Gwithian Towans Beach, famous for its excellent surf and views of Godrevy Lighthouse. For those seeking a quieter experience, Mexico Towans Beach offers a peaceful retreat within its rugged dunes. Nearby, Upton Towans Beach is perfect for exploring a unique, protected natural dune environment.

For a truly memorable day trip, consider the editor's recommendation of Kynance Cove, one of Cornwall's most famously beautiful coves. With such variety, from expansive surfing beaches to secluded spots, Hayle caters to many preferences. Discover more options and find your perfect Hayle beach in our comprehensive guide's longer list.

Top Beaches

Hayle Towans

As Hayle's main and most accessible beach, it offers miles of golden sand right from the town. This expansive shoreline is famously part of Hayle's celebrated "three miles of golden sands," backed by an impressive system of wild, rolling dunes – some of the largest in Cornwall – known in Cornish as 'towans'. When the tide recedes, the beach dramatically expands, joining with neighbouring sands to create a vast coastal landscape ripe for exploration. From its shores, visitors are often treated to stunning views across the expansive St Ives Bay. Even on busier days, the sheer size of Hayle Towans ensures it maintains a wonderfully spacious and open feel, ideal for leisurely walks and simply absorbing the beautiful coastal environment.

FAQ

Are Hayle beaches good for a family holiday?

Yes, Hayle's beaches are generally considered great for families. The vast expanse of sand, particularly at Hayle Towans and Gwithian Towans, provides plenty of space for children to play. At low tide, rock pools are exposed, which are perfect for exploring. Many sections are lifeguarded during peak season, offering safer swimming areas. The gentle waves in some areas are also suitable for younger children.

Can you swim in the sea at Hayle beaches?

Yes, you can swim at Hayle beaches, and conditions are often excellent, especially at low tide when the water can be calm and shallow. However, it's crucial to be aware of strong currents, particularly near the Hayle Estuary, where swimming is strictly prohibited. Always swim in lifeguarded areas, between the red and yellow flags, and check tide times. Some areas are better suited for swimming than others; for instance, moving away from the estuary at Hayle Towans is recommended for safer swimming.

Hayle Beach

What are the dog restrictions on Hayle beaches?

Dog restrictions vary across Hayle's beaches and by time of year. For example, on Hayle Beach from Harveys Towans to Black Cliff, dogs are banned between 10 am and 6 pm from 1st July to 31st August. Mexico Towans is dog-friendly all year round. It's always best to check the specific signage at each beach access point for the most current rules, as Cornwall Council and private landowners may have different regulations.

Hayle Beach

Mexico Towans Beach

Is there parking available at Hayle beaches and is it free?

There are several car parks serving Hayle beaches, including at Hayle Beach (TR27 5AF), Harvey Towans (TR27 5AS), Gwithian Towans, and Sandy Acres. Parking is generally not free, especially during peak season (April to October), with charges varying by car park and duration of stay. For example, Gwithian Towans car park has hourly and daily rates during peak season but may be free from November to March. Some smaller car parks like Harvey's Towans have had periods of free parking but may now have charges implemented by private companies.

Hayle Beach

Gwithian

When are lifeguards on duty at Hayle beaches?

RNLI lifeguards patrol Hayle beaches, typically from May to September. For Hayle Towans, lifeguard services are usually provided from May to September, often including the Easter Bank Holiday weekend. Gwithian North also has lifeguard cover from mid-May to late September, with some additional weekend and holiday cover outside the main season. It's always advisable to check the RNLI website or local signage for specific dates and times as these can vary.

How accessible are Hayle beaches for prams and wheelchairs?

Accessibility varies. Hayle Towans has a ramp for buggies and wheelchair users opposite the Bluff Inn, next to the lifeguard hut, making that section reasonably accessible. Some other paths to the beach can be steep or involve dunes, which may be challenging. It's best to check specific access points depending on which part of the long stretch of sand you wish to visit.

What are the tides like at Hayle and how do they affect the beach?

Hayle beaches experience a large tidal range. At low tide, a vast expanse of sand is revealed, connecting different beach sections like Hayle Towans, Gwithian, and Godrevy, making it ideal for long walks. Conversely, at high tide, some beach areas can become significantly smaller or almost disappear, particularly at Godrevy. The tides also create strong currents, especially near the Hayle Estuary, so it's important to be aware of tide times for safety and access.

Hayle Beach

Gwithian

Godrevy

Are Hayle beaches very windy?

Hayle, being on Cornwall's north coast, can be exposed and experience windy conditions, especially during autumn and winter. The wind can be a factor for beachgoers, but it also makes the area popular for watersports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. The windiest month is typically January, while July tends to be calmer.

Hayle Beach

People Also Ask

Which part of Hayle's 'three miles of golden sand' is best?

It depends on what you're looking for. Hayle Towans, near the estuary, is popular and has good access from Hayle town. Gwithian Towans is renowned for surfing and has plenty of space, making it great for families too. Mexico Towans, situated between Hayle Towans and Gwithian, offers a vast sandy expanse and is dog-friendly year-round. Godrevy, at the far end, provides dramatic views of the lighthouse but can be more exposed to Atlantic swells.

Mexico Towans Beach

Godrevy

Are there toilets and cafes directly on Hayle beaches?

Yes, facilities are available, though their location varies. At Hayle Towans, there are toilets near the Lifesaving Club and a pub. The Cove Cafe is a popular option near Black Cliff/Mexico Towans. Gwithian Towans also has facilities, including cafes near the National Trust car park. Some more remote stretches like parts of Mexico Towans might have limited immediate facilities.

Hayle Beach

Mexico Towans Beach

Gwithian

Is Hayle a good base for a beach holiday in Cornwall?

Yes, Hayle is considered a great base for a beach holiday. It boasts its own extensive sandy beaches and is conveniently located near the A30, providing easy access to explore other parts of Cornwall's north and south coasts, including St Ives. The town offers various accommodation options and amenities.

Hayle Beach

How do Hayle beaches compare to St Ives beaches?

Hayle offers vast, expansive beaches like Hayle Towans and Gwithian, known for their space, surfing, and dunes. St Ives beaches, such as Porthminster or Porthmeor, are generally smaller coves, often more sheltered and located right by the town with its distinct artistic atmosphere. Hayle's beaches can feel less crowded due to their sheer size. The choice depends on whether you prefer wide-open spaces and a more natural feel (Hayle) or picturesque coves integrated with a bustling town (St Ives).

What is the best way to get to Hayle beaches from Hayle town?

Hayle Towans is a short walk from Hayle town centre, particularly from the North Quay area. You can also drive, with several car parks located along the stretch of beaches. For beaches further along like Gwithian, driving is more common, though it's possible to walk along the beach or coast path. Public transport options include trains to Hayle station, from which it's a substantial walk to the main beach areas, or local bus services.

Hayle Beach

Gwithian

Are there any quieter, less crowded beaches near Hayle?

While Hayle's main beaches are vast and can absorb crowds, some parts like Mexico Towans or sections further along Gwithian can feel quieter. Porthkidney Sands, on the other side of the Hayle Estuary (near Lelant), is often mentioned as a quieter, more secluded option, though access involves a walk. Exploring the dunes ('towans') can also lead to more secluded spots.

Mexico Towans Beach

Gwithian

Is Hayle good for surfing?

Yes, Hayle is a popular surfing destination, particularly Gwithian Towans, which picks up good Atlantic swells and is suitable for various abilities, including beginners due to its gently sloping nature. Hayle Beach itself also offers surfing, sometimes with gentler waves. Several surf schools operate in the area offering lessons and equipment hire.

Hayle Beach

Gwithian