Top 5 West Cornwall swim on lifeguarded beaches

There are obviously a number of lifeguarded beaches throughout Cornwall. Some we’d class as surfing beaches and some are typically fairly frequently flat. So whilst we’ll include it in the post, you need to check the conditions before visiting.

It might also be an idea to check the lifeguard cover, with some beaches covered for the ‘main’ summer season and some only covered for the ‘peak’ weeks. Best have a chat with the lifeguards before entering the water and inform them of your plans. You could also get some advice on safe routes and the conditions.

PORTHCURNO - offers a beautiful swim. I prefer low tide (a spring low if possible). Best swimming in the morning (10 am) or around 5pm, as you may struggle with parking otherwise. I will warn you that the water is generally a good degree cooler than the rest of Cornwall. Typically crystal clear water, white sand and glorious swimming.

GREAT HOGUS REEF (Marazion) - I’m going for an unusual choice here. Looking at a mid to high tide, in nice flat conditions. This one is a bit of a swimfari. Lots of sea life, seaweed and crazy rocks. More of a swim-snorkel, than a straight swim…you need to keep an eye out for rocks hiding just under the surface. All in the shadow of St Michael’s Mount.

PORTHMINSTER - located in St Ives it’s always a pain parking but you can park up in Carbis Bay and get a 2 minute train to Porthminster or walk…lovely walk in nice weather. Aim to swim mid-to-high tide. You can swim at low tide but it’s very shallow for a long way out. Avoid the harbour area.

SENNEN / GWYNVER - you’d need both with flat conditions and I’d advise swimming at either on an incoming tide. Again, chat to the lifeguards before venturing in.

PERRANUTHNOE - whilst the main beach isn’t the most interesting swim, the beach is lovely and there are some really interesting swims in the immediate area. During the summer months the beach is generally flat but it can pick up swell in the right conditions. *There isn’t much beach at high tide, particularly on a spring high.

Safer Swimming Guide - Sennen Cove

Here’s our Safer Swimming Guide for Sennen Cove.

Swimming at Sennen Cove

Sennen Cove is well known for it’s surfing but we think it’s very undervalued as a swimming spot. Now, this is obviously a beach with surf but when the swells are small it offers a fantastic day out and some really nice swimming conditions. The water quality and clarity (without swell) are pretty good, the beach is another Cornish stunner and it’s a little out of the way. It does get quite a crowd in the peak seasons but offers you a bit of a chance to escape the crowds in the early and late season.

Best to swim in the main season and chat to the lifeguards before swimming.

In terms of a wild, winter dips you also get some protection from the harbour wall at mid-high tide, with very affordable parking right next door. Ideal for a cold water dip and coffee at the local cafe.

SSC Beach Rater - Sennen Cove

I lifeguarded here for a summer and love this beach. A bit of an effort to get to but well worth that effort.

You have it all…surf, sand, sand dunes, walks, great local village. Great all round day out.