Crantock is an expansive beach owned by the National Trust.  With golden sand dunes backing the wide, shallow beach it is popular with families and is great for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and beach games. There is a large carpark and and a couple of cafes at the entrance as well as toilet facilities.

What to do there

As with most beaches in Cornwall there is a nice coastal trail that  follows the coastline, this one runs through the sand dunes around the headland. West Pentire is great in early summer when a vast display of poppies and wildflowers comes to life, a sight not to be missed! Polyjoke is a small scenic cove where families of seals are frequently sighted sunbathing on the beach.

The beaches are great for watersports and family activities and the expanses of fine sand provides endless fun for children.

 

 

How to get there:

Crantock is about a half an hour drive from Rockleigh Place, its easiest to visit by car with plenty of parking. Most of the coves along the trail have car parks nearby. Hikers, the recommended route is to join the coastal trail and walk towards Holywell Bay. This walk takes about 2 hours one way.

When to visit:

Any time is great for the coastal trails. Due to all the sand, you may wish to avoid this area during high winds. Late June is great to see the wild flowers blooming. As everywhere else in Cornwall, during peak season its good to get there earlier to ensure a parking space. Also if you want to stay on the beach bare in mind that although it is vast during low tide, it retreats significantly at high tide.