Is Lostwithiel a good place for a beach holiday?
Lostwithiel is an inland town, about 6 miles from Cornwall's south coast. While it doesn't have its own sea beach, it's an excellent and charming base for exploring the many sheltered coves and sandy beaches nearby on the south coast, as well as the rest of Cornwall. It offers easy access to both coasts and the moors.
What are the beaches like near Lostwithiel? Are they sandy?
The beaches near Lostwithiel on Cornwall's south coast are typically smaller, sheltered sandy coves, often nestled between low cliffs. They generally have calmer waters compared to the wide, surf-heavy beaches found on the North Cornwall coast. Examples include Polkerris, Readymoney Cove, and Par Sands.
How far is Lostwithiel from the nearest proper sea beach?
Lostwithiel is about 6 miles inland from the south coast. The nearest popular sea beaches like Polkerris, Par Sands, and Readymoney Cove (in Fowey) are typically a 15-20 minute drive away (around 5-8 miles depending on the specific beach and route).
Can you swim in the sea near Lostwithiel?
Yes, swimming is popular at the nearby south coast beaches. Polkerris and Readymoney Cove are particularly sheltered and considered good for swimming, with Readymoney often having a bathing platform in summer. Par Sands offers gentle slopes ideal for paddling, but care is advised as there's no lifeguard. Always check conditions before entering the water.
Where can I stay if I want accommodation right by a beach near Lostwithiel?
While Lostwithiel itself is inland, you can find accommodation closer to the coast. Par Sands has a large holiday park right behind the dunes. Fowey offers numerous cottages and hotels, some with estuary views, providing walking access to Readymoney Cove. Polkerris also has some accommodation options within the small hamlet.
Is there actually a beach *in* Lostwithiel itself?
Lostwithiel has a small shingle 'beach' area by the medieval bridge on the River Fowey, which is exposed at low tide. It's a pleasant spot for picnics, paddling, and launching kayaks, especially popular with families with young children, but it's a river beach, not a coastal sea beach.
Which beaches near Lostwithiel are best for families?
Polkerris Beach, Readymoney Cove (Fowey), and Par Sands are often recommended for families. Polkerris and Readymoney are sheltered sandy coves with facilities nearby. Par Sands is a large sandy beach with dunes, ideal for space and paddling, though it lacks lifeguard cover. The river beach in Lostwithiel is also great for younger children.
Are there dog-friendly beaches near Lostwithiel?
Yes, several beaches near Lostwithiel welcome dogs year-round, including Par Sands, Lantic Bay, and Polridmouth Cove. Lostwithiel's own river beach is also dog-friendly all year. Be aware that some popular beaches like Readymoney Cove and Polkerris have seasonal restrictions, typically banning dogs during peak summer daytime hours.
What's parking like at the beaches near Fowey and Lostwithiel?
Parking can be challenging, especially in peak season. Polkerris has a car park but it fills quickly. For Readymoney Cove in Fowey, you'll need to use Fowey's main car parks (like Main Car Park or Readymoney Car Park) and walk 5-15 minutes. Par Sands has a large car park right by the beach. Lantic Bay requires parking in National Trust car parks and a steep walk down. Lostwithiel itself generally has good free parking.
How do you get to the beaches from Lostwithiel?
The easiest way to reach the coastal beaches from Lostwithiel is by car, typically a 15-20 minute drive. Follow signs for Fowey (for Readymoney Cove), Par (for Par Sands and Polkerris), or use sat nav postcodes. Some beaches like Readymoney and Lantic Bay require a walk from the nearest car park.
Are there any quieter, hidden gem beaches near Lostwithiel?
Yes, Lantic Bay is often considered a 'secret' gem due to its beauty and steep access path, meaning it's often less crowded. Polridmouth Cove, accessible via a farm track, is also more secluded. Lansallos Beach is another relatively unknown sheltered beach nearby. These often have fewer or no facilities.
What are the main differences between Polkerris Beach and Readymoney Cove?
Both are sheltered, sandy coves near Fowey. Polkerris is a small hamlet with the beach, a pub, restaurant, and watersports centre right there; access is down a steep hill. Readymoney Cove is right on the edge of Fowey town, accessed by walking from Fowey car parks along the Esplanade or a closer dedicated car park; it has a beach shop/cafe and often a swimming platform.
What facilities are usually available at the beaches near Lostwithiel?
Facilities vary. Polkerris has toilets, a pub, restaurant, cafe, and watersports hire. Readymoney Cove has toilets and a beach shop/cafe. Par Sands has toilets near the car park and often mobile refreshments. More secluded beaches like Lantic Bay and Polridmouth have no facilities.
Where can I hire kayaks or paddleboards near Lostwithiel?
Polkerris Beach is a key spot for watersports hire and tuition, offering kayaks, paddleboards, sailing, and windsurfing from its centre right on the beach. You might also find hire options in Fowey town for use in the estuary or at Readymoney Cove.
What are the beaches near Lostwithiel like compared to North Cornwall?
The south coast beaches near Lostwithiel are generally smaller, more sheltered coves with calmer waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and family relaxation. The North Cornwall coast is known for its vast expanses of sand, dramatic cliffs, and Atlantic swells, making it famous for surfing but often windier and with stronger currents.
