Whitsand Bay

Located between Rame Head and Portwrinkle this is possibly one of the best stretches of beach in this part of Cornwall. Whitsand Bay consists of an expanse of sand approaching 4 miles in length towards low tide where several smaller coves and beaches join up.

Access to the beach is tricky at the best of times owing to the steep, high cliff paths from car parks at either end. The easiest access is from the car park near Tregantle Fort leading to Long Sands beach. Whilst the fort is a remnant of coastal defences from the Napoleonic era the area is still in use by the military. When the Tregantle Fort firing is operating red flags are flown and access is strictly prohibited.

The other car park is located near Sharrow Point and leads down to Freathy and Tregonhawke Beach.

This stretch of coast has something of a wild feel to it with only the distant chapel atop Rame Head to remind you of civilisation. Whitsand Bay has a reputation for strong rip currents which makes swimming here potentially treacherous. There is seasonal lifeguard cover, but caution is advised.

The beach is fairly exposed and there are often surfable waves here. On calmer days the area attracts divers who come to dive the HMS Scylla, an ex-naval frigate sunk in 2004 to create an artificial reef.