There’s a lot to love about Gwithian holidays; nestled in St Ives Bay and with staggering views out over Godrevy Lighthouse, Gwithian beach remains a popular vacation destination thanks to golden sand, clear water and wild dunes that shelter the beach from the elements.

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A local’s guide to Gwithian holidays…

 

 

Things to do in Gwithian

Gwithian is a small, coastal village near Hayle in Cornwall. Beyond its famous beach there are many wonderful outdoorsy delights to inspire nature lovers including a local nature reserve which is wildlife-rich and perfect for walks, birdwatching, and spotting wildflowers.

Tehidy Country Park is less than 20-minutes’ drive and here you’ll discover over 9 miles of trails through 250 acres of woodland (the largest wooded area in west Cornwall). Adventure along scenic paths through oak woods, historic plantations, and a pretty lake with its cascading stream. There are also archaeological and heritage sites to see, including medieval field boundaries, the historic Otter Trap, Romano-British Rounds, and a tucked-away Rose Garden. The park’s North Cliffs provide incredible coastal views so don’t forget to take plenty of piccies.

Along the coast from Gwithian Towans, Godrevy Beach is a lovely place for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring rock pools at low tide. Godrevy Headland has stunning coastal walks with views over to Godrevy Lighthouse, and just past it at Mutton Cove, you’ll be able to spot the resident grey seal colony basking on the rocks. The South West Coast Path winds its way around the headland and leads to dramatic spots like Hell’s Mouth, where 300-foot cliffs plunge into the sea.

Gwithian Beach

A popular spot for beach goers of all ages, the rugged beauty of the nearby nature reserve forms a stunning backdrop, while the surrounding coastline’s terrain means there are plenty of rockpools for exploring. The biggest and best-known ‘Sheep Dips’ is a large pool formed between two big sets of rocks, and with water warmer than the Atlantic it’s a fabulous place for swimming.

It’s superb surfing conditions have also led to it being listed among the top 10 surf locations in England by the Sunday Times, and as part of St Ives Bay’s famed ‘three miles of golden sand’, it is the longest and most spacious beach in Cornwall.

Global Boarders is based at Sunset Surf Café right on the beach and offers beginner and improver lessons meaning anyone can take to the waves no matter their age or ability, and with all equipment available for hire, learning to surf has never been easier.

Just three miles north-east of Hayle and four miles east of St Ives, Gwithian is well-placed for discovering and exploring both the beaches and the towns of the area, with places like Carbis Bay and Lelant within easy reach.

  • What are holidays in Gwithian like?

    Days will be spent with sand between your toes on the gloriously long and sun-bleached Gwithian beach. You can grab a delicious bite to eat at The Jam Pot which serves traditional Cornish pasties and tempting ice creams. For the surfers amongst you, Global Boarders Surf School is a short walk away where you can hire equipment or book lessons, or simply sit and watch the world go by in their relaxing café. You’ll also find yourself on the South West Coast Path meaning walks with your pooch in tow is a must. The beach-based Kabyn Cafe is something of a ‘not so best kept secret’ of the locals anymore. Thanks to its gorgeous setting and the utter yumminess of its offerings, it has a reputation that’s already reached far and wide. A must when you’re on holiday in Gwithian.

  • Are dogs allowed on Gwithian Beach?

    Dogs are not allowed on the main beach during the peak summer holidays 1st July to 31st August, between the times of 10am and 6pm. Outside of July and August, dogs may freely run on the sand. Peter’s Point and Upton Towans which lie just west of Gwithian are both dog-friendly all year round.

  • Can you swim at Gwithian Beach?

    This popular beach has recently been named the UK’s best beach by The Times, with excellent bathing water quality. As with most of Cornwall’s beaches, care should always be taken when swimming as there can be strong undercurrents and riptides. The beach is lifeguarded between April and September.

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