Semi-secret beach in South Cornwall

📸 With thanks to Cornish drone photography for these images.

Lantic Bay

According to a new list compiled by The Independent, one particular beach in Cornwall has been named among the best of UK beaches for peace and quiet in 2024. It’s easy to see why Lantic Bay has been listed. With its white sands and a shingle shoreline, all backed by imposing cliffs, it truly is a beautiful beach.

Lantic Bay is situated near Polruan, on the stunning stretch between Fowey and Polperro, on the south coast of Cornwall. This is not the sort of place you simply stumble upon, it’s definitely off the beaten track, you need to know about it! Be warned though, it’s a steep walk down to the beach. If you are able to make the walk, it is truly worth the effort (as you can see by the photos). Just don’t forget to bring a picnic – you’re going to need your energy for the climb back up!

If the steep walk really doesn’t appeal to you, don’t be disheartened! You can still bring a picnic with you, and just stay on the cliff paths above the bay and continue to enjoy the stunning view.

Directions to Lantic Bay, PL23 1NP:
Situated 4 miles from Polperro. At Polperro turn right opposite the Crumplehorn Inn and follow the road for a few miles until you get to a junction. Turn right following the signs to Polruan, then at the next junction turn left (still signposted to Polruan). Continue on this road for a few more miles until the first National Trust car park and toilets. This is about one mile from Lantic beach, so just continue on the road until you get to a second National Trust car park which is on the right. Opposite the right turning to the car park, there is a footpath that follows the road for a short distance and it leads across the fields to Lantic Bay.

Parking:
There are two National Trust car parks. Ideally, try to park in the second one, as the gate is nearer. If you park in the first one, you’ll have to walk along the road for a bit, which might not be ideal.

Facilities:
There is no toilet or cafe. The nearest toilets are a mile away.

Important:
The path down to the beach is challenging. It’s narrow and sheer sided in places which is one of the reasons this beach is never crowded, even in summer. Remember, it’s a steep walk back up!
There is NO lifeguard in the bay, so please make sure that you stay safe and check the tide and weather conditions!

Dogs:
Dogs are allowed all year on the beach at Lantic Bay.

Nearby accommodation:
Green Acres Cottages in Penpillick, overlooking the beautiful Luxulyan Valley
01637 873274