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Hawkers Cove

4.8
·274 reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene golden sand beach near Padstow, offering stunning estuary views and a peaceful escape. Perfect for families and dog walkers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peaceful start to the day

CrowdLow
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Hawkers Cove - Image 1

Hawkers Cove

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peaceful start to the day

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene golden sand beach near Padstow, offering stunning estuary views and a peaceful escape. Perfect for families and dog walkers.

4.8
(274 reviews)

"Wonderful beach with amazing views, golden sand and shallow water. Great for families."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Park for free on the road near Hawkers Cove and follow the path down to the beach.

🚶 Walk to Padstow

Enjoy a scenic walk from Hawkers Cove to Padstow, taking in the beautiful estuary views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sands and Estuary Views

Golden Sands and Estuary Views

Hawkers Cove Beach

Experience the tranquility of golden sands and breathtaking views of the Camel Estuary. A perfect spot for relaxation and family fun.

InstagramReddit
South West Coast Path Access

South West Coast Path Access

Starts at Hawkers Cove

Embark on scenic walks along the renowned South West Coast Path, offering stunning vistas and access to hidden coves.

Instagram+1
Dog-Friendly Paradise

Dog-Friendly Paradise

Hawkers Cove

Bring your furry friends to enjoy the soft sand and calm waters of this beautiful, dog-friendly beach.

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Planning Your Visit

Escape the Padstow Crowds

Hawkers Cove offers a serene escape from the bustle of Padstow. Just a short walk or drive away, it boasts golden sands and stunning estuary views, perfect for a peaceful day out. InstagramReddit

Best Footwear for Coastal Walks

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the South West Coast Path around Hawkers Cove. The terrain can be varied, so sturdy footwear will enhance your enjoyment of the scenic routes. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Peaceful start to the day
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring/early autumn
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays outside peak season
Why
Unspoiled tranquility
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

cornwall road-trip itinerary👇🏽🐚✨ • start in bude (bude sea pool, summerleaze beach, coast walk to widemouth bay) • stop at port isaac padstow, polzeath and bedruthan steps (rick stein’s lunch, surf polzeath, daymer bay blues, sunset at the oyster catcher) • stay in newquay (fistral beach, watergate bay hotel, fish house dinner, crantock’s turquoise tide pools) • stop at perranporth (watering hole ...
@reanne.witter
3.1K likes • 30.1K views

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Park for free on the road near Hawkers Cove and follow the path down to the beach. Instagram

🚶 Walk to Padstow

Enjoy a scenic walk from Hawkers Cove to Padstow, taking in the beautiful estuary views. Instagram+1

a pocket guide to a perfect day in padstow⚓️⛴️🐚 ⛱️ best beaches — hawker’s cove, trevone bay, harlyn bay, mother ivey’s bay, booby’s bay, constantine bay ✨ things to do — stroll the camel trail, explore prideaux place, take the ferry to rock, boat trips along the estuary, surf at polzeath 🍴lunch & dinner — rick stein’s seafood restaurant, prawn on the lawn, barnaby’s, greens of padstow, craftworks...
@reanne.witter
2.9K likes • 37.8K views
Top tip whilst staying near Padstow and if youre staying at @tregavone this summer... Drive to Hawkers cove (about an 8 minute drive) then park for free on the road and follow the path down to Hawkers Cove, walk to Padstow and take in the breathtaking views of Padstow, and the Estuary. On your way in the car stop at Padstow Farm shop (literally on the road leading to hawkers) and grab an Apple Sa...
mumonmuddylane
129 likes • 8.5K views

☕ Visit Rest A While Cafe

Stop by the charming tea shop at the top for delicious cream teas and amazing bay views. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Hawkers Cove is a fantastic spot for dogs, with soft sand and calm waters for them to enjoy. InstagramReddit

Turquoise waters from every window 🌊🐬🐟🐠💙#kalitico #cornwall #linenhire #housekeeping #propertymanagement #kaliticodoitbest #laundry #hawkerscove #padstow
kalitico_
9 likes • 761 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Park for free on the road near Hawkers Cove and follow the path down to the beach. Instagram

🚶 Walk to Padstow

Enjoy a scenic walk from Hawkers Cove to Padstow, taking in the beautiful estuary views. Instagram+1

☕ Visit Rest A While Cafe

Stop by the charming tea shop at the top for delicious cream teas and amazing bay views. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Hawkers Cove is a fantastic spot for dogs, with soft sand and calm waters for them to enjoy. InstagramReddit

🏄‍♀️ Paddleboarding Potential

The calm sea at Hawkers Cove makes it a great location for paddleboarding enthusiasts. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(274 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Hawkers Cove for its stunning natural beauty, golden sands, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a peaceful escape near Padstow. It's highly recommended for families and dog owners alike, offering a serene beach experience with beautiful estuary views. Some visitors note that while Padstow can be busy, Hawkers Cove provides a welcome respite.

"Wonderful beach with amazing views, golden sand and shallow water. Great for families. Car park nearby. Chill and peaceful, but near to Padstow."

Dime

"Great beach just a mile or so outside of Padstow a good place to escape the crowds.Be sure to go to Rest A while cafe"

Chris Stoppard

"Truly outstanding beach and dog friendly. ☺️"

Dave Sorrell

What People Like

Beautiful golden sand
Stunning estuary views
Peaceful and tranquil

What People Dislike

Limited facilities on beach

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hawkers Cove is easily accessible from Padstow. You can enjoy a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path, which takes about 30-40 minutes, or drive a short distance (approx. 8 minutes) and park for free on the road before walking down to the beach. Instagram+1

Yes, there is free parking available on the road near Hawkers Cove. From there, it's a short walk down to the beach. Instagram

While direct public transport to Hawkers Cove is limited, Padstow is well-served by buses. From Padstow, you can then walk or take a short taxi ride to Hawkers Cove. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy walking from Padstow along the coast path, offering beautiful views. Alternatively, driving and parking nearby is a convenient option. Instagram+1

The Camel Trail, which runs near Padstow, is popular for cycling. While direct cycling to Hawkers Cove beach itself might be challenging, the surrounding areas offer great cycling opportunities. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hawkers Cove is a natural beach and coastal area, and there is no entry fee. Parking is also free. Instagram

Hawkers Cove is accessible at all times, as it is a natural coastal area. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be mindful of tide times and coastal safety. Dogs are welcome year-round. InstagramReddit

Information regarding Blue Flag status for Hawkers Cove is not readily available, but it is consistently praised for its cleanliness and natural beauty. Reddit

Yes, there are holiday cottages and accommodation options in and around Padstow, with some offering views towards Hawkers Cove. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming in the shallow waters, walking along the beach, exploring the South West Coast Path, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing while taking in the stunning views. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The shallow, calm waters and soft golden sand make Hawkers Cove an ideal and safe destination for families with children. Reddit

Visitors have spotted various seabirds and marine life. The estuary is rich in biodiversity, and you might see seals or dolphins in the wider bay. Instagram

While there are no direct facilities on the beach itself, the nearby Rest A While tea garden offers refreshments and stunning views. Toilets and more extensive facilities are available in Padstow. Reddit

The entire cove offers picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The coastline and estuary provide excellent backdrops for photography. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There isn't a restaurant directly on Hawkers Cove beach, but the 'Rest A While' tea garden is located nearby at the top, offering cream teas and light bites with fantastic views. Padstow, a short walk away, has numerous dining options. Reddit

Padstow is renowned for its culinary scene, with options ranging from Rick Stein's famous seafood restaurants to charming local pubs and cafes. TikTok

Yes, Hawkers Cove is a perfect spot for a picnic. Bring your own food and enjoy a meal with a view of the estuary and coastline. Instagram

Padstow is famous for its fresh seafood. Don't miss trying local crab, lobster, and fish dishes. Cream teas are also a quintessential Cornish experience. TikTokReddit

Many pubs and cafes in Padstow are dog-friendly. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful light for capturing the scenery of Hawkers Cove. Instagram+1

Hawkers Cove is ideal for landscape photography, capturing coastal scenes, estuary views, and beach photography. Drone photography also yields stunning results. Instagram

The entire stretch of the cove provides excellent photo opportunities. Walking along the South West Coast Path offers elevated perspectives of the beach and estuary. Instagram

Drone photography is popular at Hawkers Cove, offering unique aerial perspectives of the coastline and estuary. Always be aware of local drone regulations. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hawkers Cove is a fantastic choice for families. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for little ones to paddle and play safely, and the soft golden sand is ideal for building sandcastles. It's a more peaceful alternative to busier beaches, allowing for a relaxed family day out. Reddit

With free parking nearby and a short, manageable walk to the beach, it's convenient for families with strollers or young children. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the sand, and consider a visit to the nearby 'Rest A While' tea garden for a treat. InstagramReddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Dog lovers rejoice! Hawkers Cove is dog-friendly year-round, making it a perfect destination to bring your furry companions. They'll love the soft sand and the opportunity to play in the calm waters. InstagramReddit

It's an ideal spot for long walks along the beach or connecting to the South West Coast Path. Remember to bring water and waste bags for your pets, and always be considerate of other visitors. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Walkers

For those who love to explore on foot, Hawkers Cove is a gateway to the magnificent South West Coast Path. You can embark on a beautiful walk towards Padstow or explore further along the coast, discovering hidden coves and stunning vistas. Instagram+1

Wear sturdy walking shoes as the terrain can be varied. The path offers breathtaking views of the estuary and the rugged Cornish coastline, making it a rewarding experience for any walker. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the South West Coast Path

Hawkers Cove is a fantastic starting point or stopover for exploring the South West Coast Path. This iconic trail offers unparalleled views of the Cornish coastline, with sections around Hawkers Cove providing vistas of the Camel Estuary and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can walk towards Padstow or venture further to discover hidden coves like Butter Hole. Instagram+1

The path is well-maintained but can be challenging in parts, so appropriate footwear is essential. Along the way, you might encounter local wildlife and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Cornish landscape. It's a popular route for both day-trippers and serious hikers looking to experience the dramatic scenery. Instagram

Consider stopping at the Rest A While tea garden for a well-deserved break and refreshments while enjoying the panoramic views. This section of the coast path is particularly rewarding for its blend of coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and estuary landscapes. Reddit

Hawkers Cove: A Family-Friendly Gem

Hawkers Cove is frequently highlighted as an excellent destination for families. Its golden sands are perfect for children to play on, and the shallow, calm waters make it a safe environment for paddling and swimming. Unlike some busier beaches, Hawkers Cove offers a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing families to enjoy a peaceful day by the sea. Reddit

The proximity to Padstow, a charming fishing town, adds to its appeal. Families can combine a visit to the beach with exploring Padstow's attractions, such as its harbor and shops. The ease of access, with free parking nearby and a relatively short walk to the beach, also makes it a convenient choice for those with young children. Instagram

Many reviews emphasize the unspoiled nature of the beach, making it a delightful spot for creating lasting family memories. The opportunity for simple pleasures like building sandcastles and enjoying the sea breeze makes Hawkers Cove a beloved spot for return visits. Reddit

Photography Opportunities at Hawkers Cove

For photographers, Hawkers Cove presents a wealth of opportunities. The dramatic coastal scenery, the expansive Camel Estuary, and the golden sands create a picturesque setting that is particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The interplay of light on the water and the rugged coastline offers endless creative possibilities. Instagram+1

Drone enthusiasts will find Hawkers Cove particularly rewarding, with aerial shots revealing the unique contours of the cove and its surroundings. The South West Coast Path provides elevated viewpoints, perfect for capturing panoramic shots of the beach and the wider bay. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, the natural beauty of Hawkers Cove is sure to impress. Instagram

Artists have also found inspiration here, with some creating artwork inspired by the cove's serene beauty and vibrant colors. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the breathtaking views, makes it a photographer's paradise. Instagram

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