Porth Holidays

Things to do in Porth

With its fabulous position on the coast, Porth sits within a very short distance of the area’s best surf beaches, restaurants and attractions so whether for a short weekend away or an extended family holiday, it really is a lovely location for a Cornish break.

The Beach

Well known for its safe swimming, clean water and family-friendly atmosphere, Porth Beach is lifeguarded seasonally between Easter and October. There are shallows that are perfect for tots and toddlers to splash around in and rock pools for exploring.  An excellent space for dog-walking, the beach imposes a seasonal dog ban between May and September. However, pooches are allowed on the beach during these months early in the morning (until 10:00am) and late in the evenings (after 6:00pm).

The South West Coast Path

A footbridge from the beach accesses Porth Island which lies on Trevelgue Head, an impressive ancient cliff fort and settlement, and from here you’ll have wonderful views across the coast. A short walk along the coast path will then take you to Whipsiderry Beach, and if you fancy taking a longer walk so you can take in even more of the beautiful scenery, Watergate Bay lies a further 1.5 miles along the coast path (around 35 minutes). This route really does showcase the beauty of the area and isn’t overly strenuous so it’s a good one to do with the whole family.

In the opposite direction, Lusty Glaze Beach is just a 10 minute walk along the coast path, with Tolcarne and Great Western beaches a further 15 minutes.

National Trust’s Trerice

This scaled down version of a grand Elizabethan house, which has a stunningly elegant interior and most attractive garden is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Porth. Wander around inside the home then step outside to take in scenes of the garden’s pretty plants and flower varieties. There’s also an Elizabethan knot garden, cottage borders, and a Cornish kayling lawn. Make a day of it and enjoy some relaxation with hot and cold drinks, cakes, and cream teas at the Barn Café, then pop into the gift shop or second-hand bookshop located in the Undercroft, and choose a memento to take home with you.

Restaurants in Porth

A fabulous day on the beach is even better when you can grab a delicious bite to eat just a few metres from the sand, and Porth has plenty of those to choose from.

Across the road from the beach is Roo’s Beach Hut, where visitors can enjoy coffee and brekkies before stocking up on fishing nets, buckets and suncream, while on the opposite side of the car park is Café Coast for cream teas and ice cream in the sunshine. Estrella Morada Bar De Tapas is terrific for a post-beach drink with its sea-facing terrace and Spanish-inspired menu. Nearby Watergate Bay boasts a formidable foodie scene, the most popular casual dining option being WAX Bar and Kitchen which has great views over the bay, serves delicious light bites and has a range of drinks that include craft beers and cocktails.

Enjoy Wagu beef burgers, stone baked pizzas or Brie wedges to the sound of the ocean in the background, all in a super relaxed atmosphere. The ever-popular Zacrys, The Beach Hut and Living Space at Watergate Bay Hotel are also well worth stopping in at for a fabulous meal or a drink with a view.