Carlyon Bay Beaches Cornwall
Expansive Cornish beach with clear waters, rock pools, and stunning coastal views. Dog-friendly year-round.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Carlyon Bay Beaches Cornwall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive Cornish beach with clear waters, rock pools, and stunning coastal views. Dog-friendly year-round.
"A great free beach with plenty of space, clear water, and dog-friendly access all year."
Pack Smart Snacks
Buy snacks from 'The Range' nearby to save money on beachside prices. :shopping_bags:
Check Tide Times
Low tide is perfect for exploring rock pools and maximizing beach space. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Sandy Shores
Carlyon Bay Beach
Miles of sand, shale, and gravel offer ample space for relaxation and exploration, even during busy periods.
+1
Crystal Clear Waters
Carlyon Bay
Enjoy incredibly clear water perfect for swimming and sea kayaking, offering a serene coastal experience.
Rock Pooling Adventures
Carlyon Bay Beach (low tide)
Discover fascinating marine life in the numerous rock pools revealed at low tide, a delight for all ages.
Scenic Coastal Views
Carlyon Bay Headlands
Take in breathtaking panoramic views of St Austell Bay and the surrounding Cornish coastline from the clifftops.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Smart Snacks
Buy snacks from 'The Range' nearby to save money on beachside prices. :shopping_bags:
Check Tide Times
Low tide is perfect for exploring rock pools and maximizing beach space. :ocean:
Dog-Friendly All Year
Carlyon Bay welcomes dogs year-round, making it ideal for pet owners. :dog:
Bring Your Own Cooler
Keep drinks and snacks cool for a more enjoyable day on the sand. :ice_cube:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Smart Snacks
Buy snacks from 'The Range' nearby to save money on beachside prices. :shopping_bags:
Check Tide Times
Low tide is perfect for exploring rock pools and maximizing beach space. :ocean:
Dog-Friendly All Year
Carlyon Bay welcomes dogs year-round, making it ideal for pet owners. :dog:
Bring Your Own Cooler
Keep drinks and snacks cool for a more enjoyable day on the sand. :ice_cube:
Consider Beach Shoes
The beach has a mix of sand, shale, and gravel, so comfortable footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Carlyon Bay's vastness, quiet atmosphere, and beautiful clear waters, making it a relaxing escape. While parking is generally affordable and the beach itself is free, some find the amenities, particularly the portable toilets, to be lacking in cleanliness and the food options a bit expensive. The walk or steps to access the beach can also be a consideration for some.
"Great beach, so quiet and relaxing. Plenty of places to rest and have a drink. Few shops and snack bars. Great free car park on the top of the stairs but not great portable toilets ( 🤢)"
Marta Robbins
"Great beach, beautiful views, plenty of space. Parking is £5 for the day.
There are a few shops selling hot food and drinks at a slight premium but what I advise is before coming in, there is a ‘The range’ store 400 meters from the beach on the main road where you can go and buy snacks and drinks which you can place in a cooler/bag to consume on the beach.
There are toilets/portaloos but unfortunately these are incredibly dirty and renders unusable for a number 2.
Otherwise a lovely beach and would definitely go again!"
Healthy Peanut
"Beautiful beach, free car park but bit of a walk to beach or steps could be a bit off putting. Could spend hour just watching the sea."
Jay Cee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carlyon Bay is located near St Austell in Cornwall. You can drive and park at the free car park at the top of the beach access, or use paid parking options. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient.
Yes, there's a free car park at the top of the beach access, though it can involve a walk or steps. Paid parking is also available for £5 per day.
While walking is possible if you're in the local area, it's a significant distance from further afield. Driving is generally recommended for most visitors.
Access is via a path from the top car park, which includes steps. Be prepared for a bit of a walk or descent to reach the main beach area.
Yes, the iconic Charlestown Harbour is nearby, offering a historic port setting. The Eden Project is also a short drive away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Carlyon Bay Beaches are free to access. Parking fees may apply depending on the car park you choose.
As a natural beach, Carlyon Bay is accessible at all times. However, amenities like cafes and bars will have their own operating hours.
No booking is required for general beach access. If you plan to dine at specific restaurants like Crinnis or Shoreside Bar, it's advisable to check their booking policies.
Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, which is a great plus for pet owners.
There are a few shops selling hot food and drinks, and portable toilets. However, reviews suggest the portable toilets can be quite dirty.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Carlyon Bay features a mix of sand, shale, and gravel, offering varied textures underfoot.
Yes, the sheltered bay often has calm waters ideal for open swimming, with few waves.
Yes, there are a few food shacks and bars like Shoreside Bar offering hot food and drinks, though they can be a bit pricey. +1
You can relax on the expansive beach, swim in the clear waters, explore rock pools at low tide, or enjoy scenic coastal walks.
Yes, it's a great family beach with plenty of space. The rock pools are a particular hit with children.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning aerial shots with a drone, dramatic coastal landscapes, and the clear blue waters. The beach offers beautiful light, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Absolutely! Drone footage consistently highlights the expansive beauty and clear waters of Carlyon Bay, offering unique perspectives.
Landscape photography, seascape shots, and aerial views are very popular, showcasing the natural beauty of the Cornish coast.
The dramatic cliffs, the vast expanse of the beach, and the clear waters themselves are the main photographic draws. Nearby Charlestown Harbour also offers historic maritime photo ops.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as beachside options can be pricey.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to bring water for your dog, especially on warmer days. While there are bins, it's always good practice to be prepared to clean up after your pet. The varied terrain of sand, shale, and gravel means your dog will experience different textures underfoot during your visit.
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
+2 Drone pilots will find the expansive bay and clear waters incredibly rewarding, with aerial shots consistently showcasing its beauty. +2 The mix of sand, shale, and rock formations provides diverse photographic subjects. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the serene atmosphere and vibrant colours of the Cornish coast. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Carlyon Bay's Unique Landscape
Beyond the immediate shoreline, the dramatic cliffs surrounding Carlyon Bay provide stunning vantage points. These headlands offer breathtaking panoramic views of St Austell Bay and the wider Cornish coastline, making them perfect for leisurely walks and photography. The area has also been captured beautifully from above, with drone footage showcasing the sheer scale and beauty of the bay from a bird's-eye perspective.
+2While the natural beauty is the primary attraction, Carlyon Bay also offers some amenities. Several beach bars and food shacks are dotted along the shore, providing refreshments and snacks. However, visitors often note that these can be a bit pricey, leading many to recommend bringing your own provisions from nearby supermarkets. The accessibility of the beach involves a walk or steps from the car park, and while portable toilets are available, their condition is frequently cited as a drawback.
Dining Delights and Beachside Bites
+1 Nearby, Crinnis restaurant also provides a dining experience with beachside ambiance. TikTok videos have even highlighted takeaway options like Wingshed, perfect for enjoying a meal right on the sand. While these beachside eateries offer convenience and atmosphere, it's worth noting that prices can be a little higher than average. A common tip from visitors is to make a stop at a local supermarket or a larger store like 'The Range' on your way to the beach to stock up on snacks and drinks. This can significantly cut down on costs and ensure you have plenty of refreshments for a full day out.
Whether you opt for a casual takeaway to enjoy on the sand or a more formal meal at one of the beachside restaurants, Carlyon Bay provides a range of dining experiences to complement your visit. Remember to check the opening times of specific venues, especially outside of peak season.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit