
Perranporth Beach and Dunes
A vast, golden sand beach with dramatic dunes, Chapel Rock's tidal pools, and the UK's only beachside bar.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Perranporth Beach and Dunes
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, golden sand beach with dramatic dunes, Chapel Rock's tidal pools, and the UK's only beachside bar.
"Wow this is by far a very beautiful beach. An absolute lovely place to come."

🚗 Parking convenience
Small car park by the beach, but fills fast. Consider nearby options. :car:
🌊 Check tide times!
Crucial for exploring rock pools & caves safely. Lifeguards are helpful. :ocean:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chapel Rock & Tidal Pools
Mid-beach
Explore fascinating rock pools teeming with life and swim in a natural tidal pool.

The Dunes
Behind the beach
Vast golden sand dunes offer a unique landscape for exploring and playing.

Sunset Views
Beachfront
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the ocean.

The Watering Hole
On the beach
UK's only bar directly on the sand, perfect for drinks with a view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tides and Tidal Pools
Peak Season Crowds & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking convenience
Small car park by the beach, but fills fast. Consider nearby options.
:car:🌊 Check tide times!
Crucial for exploring rock pools & caves safely. Lifeguards are helpful.
:ocean:🏄♀️ Surf & watersports
Great waves for surfing, bodyboarding, and paddleboarding. Hire available.
:surfer:🐶 Dog-friendly year-round
Dogs welcome on leads, off-lead further out. Great for furry friends!
:dog:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking convenience
Small car park by the beach, but fills fast. Consider nearby options.
:car:🌊 Check tide times!
Crucial for exploring rock pools & caves safely. Lifeguards are helpful.
:ocean:🏄♀️ Surf & watersports
Great waves for surfing, bodyboarding, and paddleboarding. Hire available.
:surfer:🐶 Dog-friendly year-round
Dogs welcome on leads, off-lead further out. Great for furry friends!
:dog:🍽️ Early dinner plans
Many eateries close by 5 pm. Plan ahead for evening meals!
:forkandknife:🎶 Tunes in the Dunes
Check for this popular beach music festival in summer!
:musical_note:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Perranporth Beach is widely praised for its immense golden sands, stunning sunsets, and excellent conditions for surfing and watersports. Visitors love exploring the rock pools and caves, and the beach's dog-friendly nature is a big plus. However, some find local eateries close too early for evening meals, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"Wow this is by far a very beautiful beach. We came on holiday and came here in the evenings. We were able to walk around where the rock pools are where there were fish and a pool to swim in. An absolute lovley place to come. There are bars and an ice cream shop that give good portions. You definitely won't be disappointed"
Debbie
"Stunning place to go for a sunset!
Chapel rock is a lovely feature in the middle complete with tidal pool that was very popular.
Plenty of facilities around and places to eat."
Laura Craven
"Amazing beach with lots of rock pools and caves to explore! Waves are fantastic for surfing and boogie boarding. The life guards are knowledgeable about the tides and do a great job at making sure everyone knows where to be when in the water. Dog friendly all year round and a great high street nearby to do some shopping."
Shannon JB
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Perranporth Beach is easily accessible by car, with a small car park directly on the promenade that can fill up quickly during peak times.
Public transport options include buses that run to the village. If coming from Newquay without a car, local buses are a viable option.Yes, there's a car park right by the beach, though it's small and can get very busy.
Some sources mention it costs around £1 for 2 hours.While it's a significant distance for a casual walk, it's possible if you're an avid hiker. Public transport (buses) is a more practical way to travel between Newquay and Perranporth if you don't have a car.
Driving is convenient for direct access. Buses are a good public transport choice. Taxis are an option but can become pricey for longer distances.
Yes, Perranporth Beach is dog-friendly all year round. Dogs are welcome on leads, and off-lead further out on the beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Perranporth Beach itself does not have an entry fee. You only pay for parking if you drive.
The beach is accessible at all times, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment, especially when exploring rock pools or caves.
Yes, Tunes in the Dunes is a ticketed event. You'll need to purchase tickets in advance through their official channels.
Always be mindful of beach safety signs, especially regarding tides and currents. Lifeguards are present during peak seasons.
You'll find public toilets, a small car park, and numerous shops, bars, and ice cream parlors along the promenade.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include sunbathing, swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, exploring rock pools and caves, walking along the vast sands, and enjoying the dunes.
Absolutely! Perranporth is renowned for its consistent waves, making it ideal for surfing, bodyboarding, and other watersports. Surf schools and hire are available.
Yes, there are caves to explore, particularly around Chapel Rock. Be sure to check tide times before venturing in, as they can become inaccessible or dangerous at high tide.
Sunsets are spectacular here, offering golden hour light. Early mornings can also be beautiful with fewer crowds.
Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty during the main season to ensure beach safety. They are knowledgeable about tides and safe swimming areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are many options along the high street and promenade, including pubs like The Watering Hole directly on the beach, cafes, and ice cream shops.
Yes, a common tip is that many local eateries close quite early, often by 5 pm. It's advisable to plan your evening meals accordingly.
Given its coastal location, you can find fresh seafood. Some vendors at events like 'Tunes in the Dunes' offer street food options.
Yes, there are ice cream shops that offer generous portions, perfect for a beach day treat.
The Watering Hole is a popular beach bar and is generally open during the main tourist seasons. It's best to check their specific opening times.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vast golden sands, dramatic dunes, Chapel Rock with its tidal pools, and especially the stunning sunsets. Drone shots can offer unique perspectives.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the sea.
Always check local regulations regarding drone usage. While some aerial shots are shared, be aware of privacy and safety guidelines.
The wide-open horizon over the Atlantic Ocean allows for unobstructed views of the sun dipping below the sea, creating vibrant colors.
Yes, the rock pools around Chapel Rock are fantastic for macro photography, especially at low tide when marine life is visible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing buckets and spades for the sand and rock pools. While there are facilities and shops nearby, remember that many eateries close early, so packing snacks or planning an earlier dinner is wise. The presence of surf schools also means older kids might enjoy trying out some beginner surf lessons.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Watersports Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the lifeguards' advice regarding currents and safe zones. The beach's open exposure means it can get windy, which can be great for kite or windsurfing too, though this is less commonly mentioned. The vibe here is very much about embracing the ocean.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Lovers
Combine a beach walk with a visit to the rock pools at low tide for a nature-filled experience. The dramatic cliffs and the vastness of the ocean provide a constant sense of awe. Remember to wear sturdy shoes if you plan on extensive dune or cliff path exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Tidal Pools and Caves
Many visitors rave about the unique experience of discovering these hidden pools and the thrill of exploring the caves. It adds an element of discovery to a beach day that goes beyond just sunbathing. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the rocks can be slippery.
Surfing and Watersports Paradise
The lifeguards are knowledgeable about the conditions and can offer advice on the best spots for different activities. The sheer size of the beach means there's usually plenty of space, even during busy periods, to enjoy your chosen watersport. The energy of the surfers and the sound of the waves are a big part of the Perranporth experience.
The Dunes and Coastal Walks
Walking along the beach itself is also a major draw. Its three miles of golden sand make it perfect for long, leisurely strolls, especially at low tide. The combination of beach walks and dune exploration makes Perranporth a destination for more than just sunbathing; it's a place to connect with the natural coastal environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit