Porth Mear Cove

Wild Atlantic waves crash against jagged slate cliffs at this dramatic cove between Porthcothan and Constantine Bay. Getting down to the beach requires a proper scramble over rocks - definitely not one for the flip-flop brigade. The reward is a sheltered pocket of sand that feels genuinely remote, even in high summer.

Surfers love it here when the swell's up, though the access puts off casual beachgoers. Families with older children who fancy an adventure will find it thrilling, but toddlers and anyone with mobility issues should give it a miss. The clifftop walk offers spectacular views without the scramble - sometimes that's honestly the better option.

Timing matters enormously. Low tide reveals rock pools and more beach space, while high tide can cut off access entirely. Check the tide tables and allow a good hour for exploring. Spring brings carpets of sea thrift along the coastal path, making it particularly lovely for photographers.

From the holiday parks around Porthcothan like Sun Haven or Watergate Bay Touring Park, it's a short drive to join the South West Coast Path. The cove works brilliantly as part of a longer coastal walk towards Constantine Bay, where you'll find proper facilities and easier beach access for the rest of the family.