Harlyn Bay

Harlyn Bay is a wide, sandy beach about 3 miles west of Padstow, sheltered from the prevailing southwesterly winds by Trevose Head to the north. This makes it one of the more reliable swimming beaches in north Cornwall - when other beaches are blown out, Harlyn often has clean, manageable waves. The beach has a car park, a seasonal beach shop, and the Harlyn Inn pub just above the sand. An Iron Age burial ground was discovered here in 1900, with over 130 slate-lined graves unearthed during construction work.

The coast path connects Harlyn to Constantine Bay and Trevose Head to the north (about a mile’s walk to the lighthouse) and to Trevone and Padstow to the east. Constantine Bay, the next beach along, is more exposed and popular with surfers. Mother Ivey’s Bay, a smaller cove just around the headland, is accessible at low tide or via a short walk from the Harlyn car park.

Holiday properties at Harlyn Bay range from beachside apartments to larger houses in the lanes above the bay. The location works well for families who want a safe beach on their doorstep with Padstow’s restaurants and harbour a short drive away. The Camel Estuary water taxi between Padstow and Rock runs throughout the day, and the Camel Trail cycle path can be picked up at Padstow or Wadebridge. Surf lessons are available on the beach during summer.