With the summer approaching, are looking for new, unexplored beaches to visit. The prime region to aim for is , one of the most popular summer destinations in the UK. But with 400 miles of coastline, different tourists might look out for different types of beaches, and might even get a little overwhelmed with the choice. If you're a fan of turquoise waters, one not to miss is Porthcurno Beach, listed by Condé Nast Traveller as the 'best beach in Cornwall' for its Caribbean-blue waters. The beach has even been dubbed a "tropical paradise" by visitors, or even a or an alternative spot to Spain.
Located in South West Cornwall, the beach features fine, silky sand that creates the Caribbean-like blue waters effect most tourists dream of. The high cliffs offer protection from the wind, while the gentle slopes make access easy. A small stream meanders down, creating a natural paddling pool for children.
At low tide, the sand extends all the way to the neighbouring cove of , revealing the beach at its most picturesque, with shallow, and scattered sandbanks. It's an easy walk between the two coves, but take care not to get cut off by the incoming tide. As the tide rises, the beach narrows and becomes much more compact.
A visitor commented on Tripadvisor last summer: "Spent the day here, it's just like being abroad, clear blue skies water, perfect sandy beach and so peaceful. No arcades, no boats, no noise, just gorgeous. There is a little snack van in the car park and a nice little cafe beside the car park but it is probably best to take your own snacks. A lifeguard is on duty in the bay. It is worth the trek down to the beach from the car park."
You can also enjoy the gentle Porthcurno circular walk, offering sweeping coastal views, remnants of defences, and a historic pyramid marking the site of an early submarine cable.
Nearby lies the Minack Theatre, a world-renowned open-air theatre created by Rowena Cade, who lived in Minack House atop the cliff. An artist and builder, Rowena moved to in the 1920s and purchased the Minack headland for just £100. In a lifelong project, she and a team constructed the theatre by hand. The theatre remains in use to this day.
You can access the beach by a 30-minute car ride from , turning off the main A30 road between Penzance and Land's End. The A1 and A3 "Atlantic Coaster" bus routes both stop off at Porthcurno roughly half-hourly.