Discover the Best Beaches in Penzance for 2025

At the centre of one of the most stunning bays in the world, the flourishing seaside town of Penzance in West Cornwall is an idyllic destination for coastal escapes. Hugged by bustling fishing villages in the iconic Mounts Bay, it is a go-to destination throughout the year.

Head westward and look forward to dream days by the waves. From secluded coves to sandy shorelines, an array of beaches awaits in Penzance and its surrounds for exploration – perfect for doses of vitamin sea. Just remember to take plenty of fresh drinking water and your own supplies with you, and once you’re ready to head back, take all of your belongings away with you – leaving only footprints in the sand.

Penzance Promenade Beach

Running in parallel with the town’s historic seafront, Promenade Beach is one of the easiest-to-reach beaches in Penzance. Mostly composed of pebbles and shingle, it can be accessed at mid-to-low tide from a series of steps located along the promenade. Wander past the buildings on one side, where Victorian architecture mingles with contemporary hubs, and take in the views of the sea on the other, which extend all the way across Mounts Bay towards the Lizard Peninsula on clear days.

Eastern Green Beach

Between Penzance and Long Rock, Eastern Green is a dog-friendly beach that beckons for leisurely hours by the water’s edge. To get there, access the beach via the railway bridge or the footpath from Penzance bus station and enjoy the peaceful swathes of sand and shingle. There are no immediate shops or facilities here; however, plenty of picnic supplies can be picked up in Penzance and this is a great option for those looking for somewhere a little quieter yet close to the town.

Wherrytown Beach

Wherrytown Beach is another of the best beaches in Penzance and one that welcomes dogs throughout the year. Located between Penzance and Newlyn, it is situated within the sheltered embrace of Mounts Bay and is blanketed by gently shelving shingle at high tide and a sandy shore at low. Set close to the town, this beach is a particular favourite with local families and bathers who like to make the most of the softly sloping gradients for swimming and paddling, as well as the nearby facilities. Like with many of Penzance’s beaches, it’s important to remember there are no lifeguards in summer.

Mousehole Beach

Just along the coast from Penzance, the picturesque fishing village of Mousehole can be found in Mounts Bay and is home to a charming harbour. If you would like to hire bikes, you can cycle the 3 miles or so to Mousehole from Penzance, or hop in the car and park in one of the handful of small car parks instead. Time your visit with low tide to make the most of the sandy shore, ready to explore the little beach peppered with moored fishing boats. This is a dog-free beach and is overlooked by a number of cute cafés and pubs.

Marazion Beach

One of the best beaches in Penzance, Marazion Beach is renowned for its fairytale setting. One of the South West’s most iconic sites, St Michael’s Mount is the most captivating focal point, connected to the shore by a cobbled causeway at low tide. Head over throughout the day to enjoy the stunning scenery and take the opportunity to try an array of outdoor pursuits, from walking and jogging to swimming and kitesurfing. On select days, you can also take a boat to the island and explore the pretty pathways that lead up towards the castle.

Lamorna Cove

For those looking for the best beaches in Penzance and are happy to take a short drive, Lamorna boasts one of the most magical coves in the county. For the keen hikers, you can even make an adventure of it and walk there and back from Penzance in a day along the South West Coast Path. Upon arrival, find a peaceful village at the foot of a verdant valley, where turquoise sea greets vegetation-clad cliffs. There aren’t any facilities here other than a seasonal café, so you’ll need to take plenty of treats and refreshments with you. However, what the beach lacks in facilities, it certainly makes up for in character.

Porthcurno

When it comes to the best beaches in Penzance, it’s hard not to mention Porthcurno. Although this beach lies some miles from the seaside town itself, it only takes around 20 minutes to drive to Porthcurno’s nearest car park and is a must for those looking for breathtaking panoramas. Park up and head down, ready for the relatively challenging hike down to the beach. There are some steep gradients and a rocky scramble at the end of the walk, so you’ll need to have good fitness. However, whether you want to head down onto the beach itself or simply admire the views from the top of the cliffs, the spectacular vistas are worth the trip.

The Beach Club

If you’re ready to start planning your holiday by the sea in Penzance, you’ll need somewhere comfortable to start and end each day. This is where The Beach Club comes in. A welcoming, contemporary hotel nestled within a 200-year-old Victorian building, our beach escape takes pride of place along Penzance’s promenade and affords front-door access to the area’s enchanting coastline. Book a stay in one of our newly refurbished private rooms and plan an unmissable retreat on the edge of Atlantic Ocean.