Moderate – Moderate

15 July 2025

Porthcothan to Newquay is an exhilarating journey through dramatic geology, crashing surf, secluded coves, and some of Cornwall’s most iconic coastal views.

---

Points of Interest: Porthcothan to Newquay

Here’s what to look out for along the way:

Porthcothan Bay & Trescore Islands

Begin with panoramic views of the bay and its sea stacks. The cliffs below are riddled with caves and blowholes, shaped by relentless Atlantic waves.

Porth Mear

A rugged inlet crossed by a small bridge. Frequent ascents and descents follow as the path climbs out of this rocky valley.

High Cove & Natural Arch

This quiet stretch reveals sea-carved formations, including a dramatic natural arch—one of many geological features along this wild coast.

Pentire Steps & Bedruthan Steps

Iconic sea stacks rise like giants’ stepping stones. Though beach access is closed, cliff-top viewpoints offer incredible panoramas.

Carnewas Point & National Trust Viewpoint

National Trust paths here are well-maintained and wheelchair accessible, making it easier to enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery.

Trenance Point to Mawgan Porth

A gradual descent reveals the wide beach of Mawgan Porth. At low tide, it’s walkable; otherwise, cliff paths offer the scenic route.

Berryl’s Point & Iron Age Cliff Castle

After a steep climb, spot ancient earthworks overlooking Beacon Cove and Griffin Point—evidence of Cornwall’s ancient defences.

Watergate Bay

A vast 2-mile sweep of golden sand popular with surfers. The path descends through a holiday complex before climbing again.

Whipsiderry Beach & Flory Island

Cliff erosion has closed some paths, but from above, you can glimpse Flory Island, once a smuggler’s hideout.

Porth Island & Porth Beach

The path detours inland here due to instability, then returns to the headland overlooking Porth Beach and reconnects with the coast.

Lusty Glaze to Newquay Harbour

A final stretch past Lusty Glaze and Tolcarne Beach leads to the tramway path and into Newquay Harbour—your journey’s end.

---

Logistics

Sleep Dog Friendly Accommodation	The Farmers’ Arms, St Merryn
Eat & Drink	Cornish Fresh, Mawgan Porth Numerous Pasty shops in Newquay. Take your pick!
Parking	St Georges Road Car Park, Newquay Cornwall County Council Cash, Card or Pay by Phone available £10:50 all day Its right next to the Bus Station. If it’s full, Manor Road Car Park is quite close.
Travel Transport from Porthcothan back to Padstow	St George’s Road Car Park, Newquay Cornwall County Council Cash, Card or Pay by Phone available £10:50 all day It’s right next to the Bus Station. If it’s full, Manor Road Car Park is close by.