The north Cornwall coast was built for surfing. But it’s easy to think that only surfers can enjoy this stretch of coastline and there’s nothing for regular beach-lovers except a little patch of sand here and there. This is patently not true, though. You don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy Polzeath or Fistral. And you certainly don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy Daymer Bay Beach as this hotspot is perfect for families and those who just want to relax.
Daymer Bay Beach lies south of the famous Polzeath beach and not too far across the Camel Estuary from Padstow. It is near to the popular coastal fishing village of Rock and it has won awards over the years for its superb water quality. The sands here are also near perfect. At low tide, there are long stretches of gold that are backed by dunes and a golf course. Obviously, one of the main draws is the stunning vista across the estuary. Access is easy with just a short walk down some steps from the beach’s car park.
You can surf off Daymer but it’s not as hallowed as nearby Polzeath for its waves and there is no lifeguard cover here. The water is shallow and is much better for bathing or a short swim close to the shore. What you really want to do here, though, is enjoy the actual sheltered beach and perhaps wander over to Brea Hill, the 62m-high grass hump that separates the beach from Rock. There are bronze age tumuli at its summit and at its foot is St Enodoc Church which is the final resting place of celebrated former poet laureate Sir John Betjeman.
Dogs are allowed on Daymer, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. In fact, the French for ‘sea’ is ‘mer’ so even the name suggests that you should dedicate a day on the beach and in the water at Daymer. Round it all off with a walk to Rock and chow down at one of the village’s incredible eateries. This is the way to do Cornwall’s north coast if you’re no surfer!