Secluded wild swimming spots in north Cornwall

Stepping away from the main part of Polzeath Beach with all the surfers running for the waves, you’ll find Baby Bay tucked into the rocks. Take the coast path for a few hundred metres towards Pentire Point, you’ll find the smaller and slightly quieter beach to be more sheltered, making it perfect for swimmers.

Just a couple of miles north of Polzeath is the rocky cove of Lundy Bay. It’s best for swimming at low tide when the sand starts to emerge and you don’t have to worry about banging into the hidden boulders beneath the water. This is a destination for adventurers who enjoy clambering down the rocks to get to this little sanctuary of Cornish paradise.

Heading a little north again along the coast towards Port Isaac is the small, sheltered cove of Port Quin. This rugged natural harbour and tiny beach has some of the calmest waters on this section of the north coast, providing a very peaceful place for swimming in its clear waters.

If you’re planning a day out to the other side of the Camel Estuary, Mother Ivey’s Bay should certainly be on your bucket list. It’s quieter than its neighbouring beaches of Harlyn and Constantine, but is still only around 15 minutes from Padstow Harbour. Swim from the white sands of Long Cove in the beautifully clear waters over to the lifeboat slipway for a wild swimming experience.

Although not as secluded as our other favourite wild swimming spots, the list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Daymer Bay. One of the closest beaches to us here at Highcliffe, it’s the perfect place to swim laps of the shore on a calm day.

For families with younger children, wild swimming can also be a fun way to experience the Cornish coast. If you’re worried about taking to the open sea with crashing waves and strong currents, then tidal pools and large rock pools can be a safer alternative. Here in north Cornwall, we highly suggest checking out Treyarnon rock pool and Newtrain Bay tidal pool, both near Padstow.