Tintagel Beaches

Overview

Tintagel offers a unique coastal experience, where dramatic cliffs and Arthurian legends meet the Atlantic. While not a traditional beach resort town, its coastline is dotted with intriguing coves and beaches, often revealed fully only at low tide. Exploring here is an adventure, blending history with the rugged beauty of North Cornwall's shores. Understanding the significant tidal range is key to safely accessing many spots.

The most iconic local spot is undoubtedly Tintagel beach, nestled below the famous castle and home to Merlin's Cave, accessible only when the tide is out. Nearby, the picturesque Bossiney Cove offers a more secluded escape, though reaching these dramatic locations often involves navigating steep paths and steps down the cliffs.

For a larger expanse of sand popular with families and surfers, especially at low tide, Trebarwith Strand is a favoured choice just south of Tintagel, offering slightly easier access. If you're seeking miles of golden sand for a classic beach day trip, the renowned Perranporth Beach is within reach. While swimming is possible at some locations like Trebarwith Strand, the powerful Atlantic currents and rocky shores demand caution.

These highlights offer just a taste of the coastal gems near Tintagel. Many beaches are linked by the stunning South West Coast Path, inviting further exploration. For a comprehensive guide to these and other nearby coastal spots, be sure to check our full list of beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Tintagel a good place for a traditional beach holiday?

Tintagel is more famous for its castle, legends, and dramatic coastal walks than as a traditional beach resort. While there are beaches, they are often rugged, accessed by steep paths, and subject to tides. It's great for adventurous visitors who enjoy exploring coves and coastal scenery alongside historical sites, but less suited for those seeking easily accessible, large sandy beaches with extensive resort facilities.

Tintagel

Can you actually swim at the beaches in Tintagel?

Swimming is possible at some beaches near Tintagel, like Trebarwith Strand (when lifeguarded) and occasionally Bossiney Haven, but caution is essential. The coastline is rugged with strong currents and potential hazards like rocks. Tintagel Castle Beach (below the castle) is generally not recommended for swimming due to rocks and currents. Always check conditions, tide times, and heed safety advice. Water temperatures are typical for North Cornwall – chilly even in summer.

Trebarwith Strand

Is it difficult to get down to the beaches near Tintagel?

Yes, access to several beaches near Tintagel involves steep paths, steps, or scrambling over rocks. Tintagel Castle Beach requires navigating many steps as part of the castle admission. Bossiney Haven has a very steep path and steps. Trebarwith Strand offers easier access, especially at low tide, but still involves a slope or steps from the car park. Accessibility can be challenging for those with mobility issues or very young children.

Trebarwith Strand

Can you visit Merlin's Cave? Is it always accessible?

Merlin's Cave is located beneath Tintagel Castle and is accessible via Tintagel Castle Beach. However, it is only accessible during low tide. You must check the tide times carefully before visiting, as the beach and cave become completely submerged at high tide. Access also requires entry to the Tintagel Castle site.

Tintagel

Where's the best place to stay if I want easy beach access in the Tintagel area?

For the easiest beach access, consider staying in Trebarwith village, right by Trebarwith Strand beach. Accommodation options here include B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and a hotel. Staying in Tintagel village provides access to shops and pubs, but reaching the beaches involves a walk, often down steep paths or steps. There are also rural accommodations scattered along the coast.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Trebarwith Strand

Are dogs allowed on Tintagel beaches?

Dog policies vary. Tintagel Castle Beach allows dogs year-round. Trebarwith Strand has a seasonal dog ban, typically from mid-May to the end of September during daytime hours (10 am - 6 pm). Bossiney Haven generally allows dogs year-round. Always check the latest local signage for specific restrictions before visiting.

Tintagel

Trebarwith Strand

What are the tides like at Tintagel and why do they matter?

The tides on the North Cornwall coast, including Tintagel, have a large range, meaning the difference between high and low tide is significant. This dramatically affects beach access, safety, and features like Merlin's Cave. Low tide reveals sandy stretches and allows access to caves and paths that are cut off at high tide. High tide can cover entire beaches and make coastal walking routes impassable or dangerous. Always check tide times before heading to the coast.

Tintagel

Is there parking near the beaches in Tintagel?

Parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak season. Tintagel village has pay-and-display car parks serving the castle and Tintagel Castle Beach (requiring a walk down). Trebarwith Strand has its own pay-and-display car park closer to the beach. Bossiney Haven has limited roadside parking or uses car parks in Tintagel village, requiring a walk. Arrive early or consider alternatives during busy periods.

Trebarwith Strand

People Also Ask

Are there sandy beaches near Tintagel?

Yes, but the nature of the sand varies. Trebarwith Strand offers a large expanse of sand at low tide. Tintagel Castle Beach has sand, pebbles, and rocks, with more sand revealed at low tide. Bossiney Haven is primarily sandy at low tide but surrounded by rocks. The beaches here are often coves rather than long, uninterrupted stretches of sand.

Trebarwith Strand

What facilities are available at Tintagel beaches (toilets, cafes)?

Facilities vary by beach. Tintagel Castle Beach has access to toilets and cafes within the Tintagel Castle site (requires admission) and in Tintagel village above. Trebarwith Strand has public toilets, cafes, and pubs near the beach access point. Bossiney Haven has no facilities directly at the beach; the nearest are in Tintagel village.

Trebarwith Strand

Are Tintagel beaches suitable for families with young children?

It depends on the beach and the family's preferences. Trebarwith Strand at low tide is generally the most family-friendly due to its sand and nearby facilities, though supervision is crucial. Tintagel Castle Beach and Bossiney Haven can be challenging due to steep access and rocky areas, making them less ideal for very young children or pushchairs. The dramatic scenery appeals to older children, but safety and accessibility are key considerations.

Trebarwith Strand

Which beach is better near Tintagel: Trebarwith Strand or Tintagel Castle Beach?

It depends on what you're looking for. Trebarwith Strand is better for traditional beach activities like sunbathing (at low tide), swimming (when lifeguarded), and surfing, plus it has easier access and more facilities nearby. Tintagel Castle Beach offers the unique experience of being below the historic castle and accessing Merlin's Cave (at low tide), but access is via the castle site, and it's less suitable for swimming.

Trebarwith Strand