Charlestown, barely a mile to the south of St Austell, is a famous harbour and port that’s been the star of countless movies and TV shows due to the beautifully historical look of the village’s seafront. What’s not so famous, though, is its beach. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for a dip next to one of the most famous harbours in the county.
Charlestown Beach is a sloping shingle beach which is accessed by some steps that sit on the east side of the historic harbour. Sure, you don’t come here for fine sands but the views out of the harbour are idyllic so sunbathing is recommended. And, despite it being right next to the harbour, the water here is wonderfully clear and boasts a stunning turquoise colour in the right light. It’s said that this colour has been formed by the mica quartz deposits in the water which date back to Charlestown’s mining days of many moons ago.
Dogs are banned from the beach, so don’t take Fido here. And there’s no lifeguard cover either so don’t go swimming to France. But do know that some of the stars of TV and film who have been on location here over the years may also have tramped along this shingle. You may be lying in the same spot as Mel Gibson or Michael Caine. Maybe…
Also note that near to this beach is the village’s fab Shipwreck Treasure Museum. So once you’re done on the shingle, get your booty over to the famous swashbucklin’ attraction. And there are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops and an ice cream parlour just up from the harbour, so a trip to Charlestown Beach means more than just lying on some shingle. It means being part of a film location mecca with lovely waters, a great museum attraction and some decent eateries close to hand. Aaaaand cut!