25 of the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall: Blue Flag bliss, unspoilt sands and stunning Atlantic views

From tiny secret bays to sweeping golden sands, remote wild stretches to buzzing destinations, Cornwall is a coastline of contrast. Atlantic rollers thunder into Newquay’s iconic surf breaks; idyllic coves are quietly claimed by locals; hidden inlets hold ombré waters shifting from emerald to sapphire. The coastline runs for hundreds of miles, veering quickly from exposed Atlantic drama to sheltered turquoise bays. A ten-minute drive can make you feel as though you’ve entered an entirely different world. Some beaches are all energy and salt spray, boards stacked against dune fences and sunsets watched from wetsuits. Others demand a steep descent and reward you with near-total seclusion. Along the way, harbourside towns spill down to the water, home to some of Cornwall’s best restaurants, where the day’s catch is served fresh from the boat. Ancient fishing villages – boats bobbing in the harbour, colourful cottages tumbling down cobbled streets – now teem with art galleries, bakeries, cafés and concept stores. Cornwall may be known for its laidback, unflashy charm, but when it comes to beaches, it can’t help but show off. Here is our definitive guide to the best beaches in Cornwall.