Cornwall’s north coast is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country. From dramatic cliff-backed bays to golden stretches of sand, each beach offers its own unique charm and character. Whether you are seeking peaceful seclusion, a family day by the sea or the perfect wave, the coastline near Camelot Castle offers it all.
Explore five of our favourite beaches, each within easy reach of the hotel.
Drive time: 8 minutes
Nestled between rugged cliffs, Trebarwith Strand is a hidden gem just a short drive from the castle. At low tide, a wide sandy beach appears, perfect for rock pooling, bodyboarding or simply soaking up the scenery. A favourite for romantic walks and dramatic sunsets.
• Family Friendly: ★★★★☆
Great for rock pooling and exploring, but access is tide-dependent
• Parking: ★★★☆☆
Small car park with limited space during peak times
• Surf: ★★★★☆
Good for bodyboarding and beginner surfing with lifeguard cover in season
• Facilities: ★★★☆☆
Café, toilets and beach shop nearby
Drive time: 35 minutes
Known for its laid-back atmosphere and consistent waves, Polzeath is a haven for surfers and sea lovers alike. With surf schools, cafés and coastal walks nearby, it is an ideal spot for active days and relaxed evenings on the sand.
• Family Friendly: ★★★★★
Flat beach with gentle waves and safe swimming areas
• Parking: ★★★★☆
Large pay-and-display car parks close to the beach
• Surf: ★★★★★
Popular with surfers of all levels, surf schools available
• Facilities: ★★★★★
Shops, cafés, toilets and seasonal lifeguards
Drive time: 40 minutes
Sheltered and serene, Daymer Bay is perfect for families and those seeking a more peaceful escape. Its gently shelving shoreline makes it ideal for swimming and paddling, while the surrounding dunes offer space for picnics and lazy afternoons.
• Family Friendly: ★★★★★
Gentle waters, safe swimming and soft sand
• Parking: ★★★★☆
Car park within short walking distance
• Surf: ★★☆☆☆
Not ideal for surfing, better for paddling and paddleboarding
• Facilities: ★★★☆☆
Toilets and seasonal ice cream van, no cafés directly on site
Drive time: 35 minutes
A spacious, sweeping bay near Bude, Widemouth Bay offers ample room to explore. With lifeguard-patrolled zones and surf-friendly conditions, it suits both beginners and seasoned beachgoers. The vast sands and open skies invite long walks and deep breaths.
• Family Friendly: ★★★★★
Wide open space with lifeguards and gentle shallows
• Parking: ★★★★★
Multiple large car parks right next to the beach
• Surf: ★★★★★
Excellent for surfers and bodyboarders with surf hire nearby
• Facilities: ★★★★★
Toilets, cafés, surf schools and accessible paths
Drive time: 25 minutes
Tucked into a dramatic cove, Crackington Haven is framed by steep cliffs and known for its raw beauty. The pebbled upper shore gives way to golden sand at low tide, with a small collection of cafés making it perfect for a peaceful escape with refreshments close by.
• Family Friendly: ★★★★☆
Safe and welcoming but stone and shingle at high tide
• Parking: ★★★★☆
Small but convenient car park very close to the beach
• Surf: ★★★☆☆
Suitable for occasional surfing when conditions allow
• Facilities: ★★★★☆
Two cafés, toilets and coastal walking trails
From secret coves to celebrated surf spots, these north coast beaches invite exploration, relaxation and unforgettable moments. Speak to our reception team for directions, tide times or personalised recommendations for your coastal day out.
“The Camelot Concierge team made our family day to Daymer Bay absolutely seamless. From packing a beautiful picnic to arranging directions and recommending the perfect tide time, they thought of everything. Their kindness and attention to detail turned a simple beach visit into a truly memorable experience for all of us. We felt genuinely cared for from start to finish.”
The Williams Family, Solihull
01840770202 
Tintagel PL34 0DQ Cornwall, GB 
