The Marine Conservation Society has recently released their Good Beach Guide for 2009. The guide is taken from data compiled over the summer of 2008 and includes England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Island, as well as The Channel Islands and The Isle of Man. With many UK tourists opting to save their travel money and head to our own holiday resorts this summer, I thought I would compile my top five beaches in Cornwall. (All of the following have been recommended by the MCS as having excellent water quality).
5. Trebarwith Strand
Trebarwith lies on the north coast just over two miles from the popular destination, Tintagel. Often regarded as one of the nicest stretches of coast in the country, the quality of water and waves make the beach a great destination for surfers. However, keep an eye on the tide times because the beach can be completely submerged at high tide, causing a high risk of being stranded on the rocks.
4. Mother Iveys Bay
More family friendly and just as breathtaking, Mother Iveys Bay retains its quality despite being popular with tourists. Being near Padstow is another plus, whilst the surf is often also good. The beach gets its name after Mother Ivey, a white witch who is said to have cursed a local field in anger for Harlyn's starving villagers.
3. Maenporth
Just around the corner from the busy harbour town of Falmouth and its beaches Gyllingvase and Swanpool, the beach at Maenporth is more sheltered and famed for its gently sloping bay. Situated on the south coast, the area is not known for its surf but it does offer facilities that are sometimes hard to find at the nicer spots in Cornwall, such as car parking, the Cove restaurant and toilets.
2. Sennen Cove
Lands End is the most westerly area of mainland England, and Sennen Cove lies just north, boasting golden sands and crystal clear waters. The beach is popular with surfers and bathers but also benefits from its impressive length.
1. Porthcurno
Sheltered by high cliffs and offering a funnel shaped beach, Porthcurno is often considered number one by tourists and locals alike. Dramatic geography and clean waters proved so beautiful, that Rowena Cade decided to build an open air theatre to overlook the bay as a backdrop. Subsequently the beach is very popular with visitors who are also drawn to the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum.
If you are travelling further afield this summer then you can buy your travel insurance and foreign currency at competitive rates from the Post Office®.
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