Praa Sands

Praa Sands is a mile-long surf beach in west Cornwall, on the south-west coast between Helston and Penzance, facing the full force of the Atlantic. The beach break works across a range of swell conditions, backed by low cliffs and dunes, with Prussia Cove - the old smugglers’ cove - accessible along the coast path to the east. The village above is small, with the Welloe pub on the clifftop overlooking the bay.

Unlike the busier surf beaches around Newquay, Praa Sands has a quieter, more local feel. The car park is right behind the beach, there’s a good surf hire setup, and the water quality is excellent. At low tide the beach is massive - plenty of space for families and surfers to coexist happily. The Welloe pub, right on the clifftop overlooking the bay, is a solid spot for a pint with a view after a day on the sand.

The location works well for exploring the far west. Penzance and Marazion are about 15 minutes east, the Lizard is a similar distance south, and the old mining coast around Helston and Porthleven is close by. Prussia Cove - the famous smugglers’ cove - is just along the coast to the east, accessible on foot via the coast path. It’s an under-the-radar beach that locals are quietly protective of.