Discover Porthtowan: Cornwall’s Coastal Gem

The village of Porthtowan, set on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, is a relaxed seaside spot with a strong sense of community. Its name comes from the Cornish words Porth (beach) and Towan (dunes), and it’s home to an award-winning Blue Flag beach.

Alongside its natural beauty, Porthtowan has a real environmental focus, with education and care for the coast at its heart.

a family-friendly beach with something for everyone

Porthtowan Beach is a paradise of soft, golden sand bordered by towering cliffs and rolling dunes. At low tide, the beach transforms into a vast playground, ideal for family games or a peaceful stroll. Children love exploring the rock pools and hidden caves, while a nearby play park offers a change of pace.

For wave lovers, Porthtowan is a surfing hotspot. Its famous, consistent break attracts surfers of all skill levels. With RNLI lifeguards on duty during the summer, it's a safe and welcoming place to catch your first wave or hone your skills. If the sea calls to you, you might also enjoy our surf cards, celebrating Cornwall’s love affair with the waves.

coastal walks steeped in history

The South West Coast Path carves a route right through Porthtowan, showcasing some of Cornwall's most dramatic and historic scenery. Walk east toward Wheal Charlotte to see relics of the county's rich mining past, or head west toward Portreath for equally stunning clifftop views.

Porthtowan's history is deeply intertwined with mining. In the 18th century, the Wheal Towan mine was one of the world's wealthiest, bringing immense prosperity to the area before the industry's decline. Today, the village has beautifully transitioned from a mining hub to a cherished seaside destination. And for those who like to take a piece of Cornwall home, our Cornish LINO ART capture the landscapes and heritage that make this county unique.

where to eat in porthtowan

Porthtowan's food scene is as vibrant as its landscape. Here are some top spots to refuel after a day of exploring:

• The Unicorn on the Beach: A dog-friendly pub just steps from the sand.

• Blue Bar: Cornwall's original beach bar, famous for its stone-baked pizzas, tacos, and local ales—all served with unbeatable sea views.

• Seasmiths: Get classic, sustainably caught fish and chips, with gluten-free options available.

• Moomaid at the Beach: A must-try for their famous Cornish ice cream—the perfect treat after a surf session or a long walk.

• Driftwood Spars (St Agnes): A historic pub known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood.

things to do near porthtowan

Beyond the beach, the area around Porthtowan is packed with activities for every interest:

• Wheal Coates Tin Mine: These striking ruins above Chapel Porth are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Heartlands: A free, 19-acre visitor attraction with beautiful gardens, museums, and playgrounds.

• Healey's Cyder Farm: Home of the famous Cornish Rattler, offering tours and tastings.

• Coast to Coast Cycle Trail: An 11-mile family-friendly bike ride from Portreath to Devoran.

• Eskinzo Surf School: Lessons for surfing and paddleboarding for ages 8 and up.

nearby beaches to explore

Porthtowan is the perfect base for exploring some of Cornwall's other stunning beaches:

• Chapel Porth: A National Trust beach famous for its dramatic clifftop engine houses.

• Portreath: A laid-back, surf-friendly spot with convenient parking.

• Perranporth: One of Cornwall's largest beaches, offering vast space for families and a variety of shops and cafes right on the sand.

If coastal adventures inspire you, you’ll love our collection of coastal walk cards, designed to bring the sea breeze to your mantelpiece.

plan your visit

• Parking: The main car park on Beach Road has 137 spaces and is free outside of peak season.

• Lifeguards: On duty daily from May to September, plus during school holidays.

• Dogs: Welcome outside the seasonal ban (May 15 to September 30, 10 am to 6 pm).

• Access: Porthtowan is about 10 miles from Truro and 20 miles from Newquay Airport. Traveling by car is your best option.

why you should visit porthtowan

With its golden sands, fantastic surf, and rich history, Porthtowan truly has it all. Whether you're looking for a relaxing family day on the beach, a challenging cliff walk, or just a simple sunset with fish and chips, this north coast village perfectly captures the essence of what makes Cornwall so special.