Loe Bar Cornwall
A dramatic natural wonder where Cornwall's largest freshwater lake meets the wild Atlantic, offering unique landscapes and stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Loe Bar Cornwall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic natural wonder where Cornwall's largest freshwater lake meets the wild Atlantic, offering unique landscapes and stunning coastal views.
"Strange place! One side there’s a long stretch of sand and the sea (no swimming signs everywhere due to riptides) then you turn around and there’s a lake!"
⚠️ Respect the Sea
Never swim at Loe Bar due to dangerous rip currents. Heed all warning signs.
🚶♀️ Prepare for a Walk
Parking is often a walk from the beach, with some rough paths. Wear comfortable shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unique Bar
The sand and shingle bank
A half-mile stretch where freshwater meets the sea, creating a dramatic natural spectacle.
Loe Pool
Behind the bar
Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake, offering a serene contrast to the wild Atlantic.
Dramatic Coastal Views
Along the coastline
Experience breathtaking vistas of the Cornish coast, perfect for walks and photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Currents: Safety First
Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Respect the Sea
Never swim at Loe Bar due to dangerous rip currents. Heed all warning signs.
🚶♀️ Prepare for a Walk
Parking is often a walk from the beach, with some rough paths. Wear comfortable shoes!
💧 Bring Your Own
There are no facilities here, so pack water, snacks, and anything else you might need.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Lake
Dogs can swim safely in the freshwater Loe Pool, but not in the sea.
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Respect the Sea
Never swim at Loe Bar due to dangerous rip currents. Heed all warning signs.
🚶♀️ Prepare for a Walk
Parking is often a walk from the beach, with some rough paths. Wear comfortable shoes!
💧 Bring Your Own
There are no facilities here, so pack water, snacks, and anything else you might need.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Lake
Dogs can swim safely in the freshwater Loe Pool, but not in the sea.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The meeting of freshwater and saltwater is a unique photo opportunity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Loe Bar's unique beauty, where a freshwater lake meets the powerful sea. While stunning and often uncrowded, the extreme danger of the currents means swimming is strictly prohibited, and the lack of facilities requires visitors to be self-sufficient. The walk to access the beach is also a consideration for some.
"Strange place! One side there’s a long stretch of sand and the sea (no swimming signs everywhere due to riptides) then you turn around and there’s a lake!
Lovely little spot to drink in the views and sun but not much else to do here. No facilities, off the beaten track."
Laura Craven
"This place is absolutely stunning. Empty beach and nature everywhere. A bit of a climb back up the hill to the car put definitely worth a visit 😊"
Rich Green
"In my opinion this is the most beautiful beach in Cornwall, sea on side and Cornwall's largest freshwater lake on other. The beach is 750 yards away from the car park. Parking is free. Perfect for dogs to swim in the lake."
Anna Adamska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loe Bar is accessible via walks from nearby Porthleven or through the National Trust's Penrose Estate. Parking is available at Penrose, but it's a walk to the beach itself. 
Yes, parking is available at the Penrose Estate, which is managed by the National Trust. Be prepared for a walk from the car park to the beach.
Absolutely! The walk from Porthleven to Loe Bar is a popular coastal route, offering beautiful views along the way.
Access to the beach itself can be challenging due to rough paths and steep inclines. The surrounding Penrose Estate offers some more accessible trails.
Many visitors enjoy circular walks that combine Loe Bar with the Penrose Estate or extend towards Porthleven.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Loe Bar itself is a natural stretch of coastline and does not require an entrance fee. Parking at the Penrose Estate may have charges.
Loe Bar is a natural landscape and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The primary restriction is a strict 'no swimming' rule due to dangerous currents. Always respect the warning signs.
Dogs are welcome, but they can only swim in the freshwater Loe Pool, not the sea. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
There are no public facilities directly at Loe Bar, such as toilets or cafes. Visitors should come prepared.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Loe Bar is ideal for scenic walks, enjoying the unique landscape where freshwater meets the sea, and photography. It's a place for quiet contemplation rather than active pursuits.
Swimming is prohibited due to extremely dangerous rip currents and a rapidly sloping seabed. Multiple warning signs are in place.
Loe Bar is the sand and shingle bank separating the sea from Loe Pool, which is Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake.
It can be less crowded than other popular Cornish beaches, especially on weekdays or outside peak season.
The beach is a mix of sand and shingle. Access paths can be rough and steep.
📸 📸 Photography
The meeting point of the sea and Loe Pool, the vast expanse of the beach, and the rugged coastline offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can provide a more serene atmosphere.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and National Trust guidelines if accessing via Penrose Estate. Always check current rules.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sea and sky.
The geological formation of the bar, the contrast between the two water bodies, and the natural erosion patterns are fascinating subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The walk to the beach can be an adventure in itself, and the vast expanse of the shingle bar provides space for children to explore and play (under close supervision). Pack wisely for a family visit. Bring plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as there are no facilities. Consider a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery. The walk from the car park can be a bit of a trek, so ensure children are up for it, or opt for a shorter route within the Penrose Estate.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
+1 You can embark on a Porthleven to Loe Bar circular walk, enjoying the dramatic sea cliffs and the unique bar landscape. The National Trust's Penrose Estate offers well-maintained trails that wind through woodlands and along the lake, providing varied walking experiences. Be prepared for varied terrain. While some paths are smooth, others can be rough, shingle-covered, or steep, especially as you approach the beach itself.
🐶 Dog Owners
The expansive shingle beach provides plenty of space for dogs to run and explore, though it's always wise to keep them on a lead in areas with steep drops or near the water's edge. Remember to bring water for your dog, especially on warmer days, as there are no facilities. The walks around the Penrose Estate also offer great opportunities for dogs to stretch their legs. Be mindful of other visitors and ensure your dog is well-behaved.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Legend of Loe Bar
+1 The geological process has created a dramatic landscape, with the wild, often turbulent sea on one side and the calm, freshwater lake on the other. This unusual setting has also given rise to local legends and myths about its formation, adding an air of mystery to the location. The geological significance of Loe Bar is evident in its structure and the way it has shaped the coastline. The constant action of the sea builds up the bar, while the freshwater from Loe Pool exerts its own pressure. This dynamic interplay is what makes Loe Bar so fascinating to observe. Visitors often remark on the stark contrast between the two bodies of water, a visual testament to the powerful forces of nature at play.
While the natural beauty is undeniable, it's crucial to understand the inherent dangers. The sea here is powerful, with strong rip currents and a steep underwater gradient that makes swimming extremely hazardous. Numerous warning signs are in place, and visitors are strongly advised against entering the water. The beauty of Loe Bar is best appreciated from a safe distance, enjoying the views and the unique environment it creates.
Exploring the Penrose Estate and Surrounding Walks
+1Popular routes include the Porthleven to Loe Bar circular walk, which offers stunning sea views and a chance to explore the charming fishing village of Porthleven. Another option is to walk from the Penrose Estate car parks directly to Loe Bar, enjoying the woodland and lakeside scenery along the way.
+1 Many visitors combine a visit to Loe Bar with exploring other nearby coves and beaches, such as Dollar Cove or Church Cove, making for a full day of coastal exploration. When planning your walk, remember that some paths can be rough and uneven, particularly those leading directly onto the shingle beach. Comfortable footwear is essential. The Penrose Estate also offers opportunities for picnicking and enjoying the tranquility of the countryside.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit