Space is at a premium in today’s world. And it’s no different when it comes to beaches during the summer. But you can be guaranteed plenty of space if you lay your towels out on Gwithian Towans Beach.
Gwithian Towans, which is just across the bay from St Ives and about four miles away from Hayle, is a massive stretch of fine sand. It boasts fine vistas right out to Godrevy Point, with the famous Godrevy Lighthouse standing proudly out in the distance. At low tide, you can actually walk out to Godrevy Point and explore the headland and its paths.
Surfing isn’t the main pastime at Gwithian Towans but with it lying on Cornwall’s north coast, there’s nevertheless some decent waves out there. Some enthusiasts regularly climb on their boards or even on windsurfers out to sea from the beach. But families and people wanting an afternoon of sunny relaxation are the most popular visitors here. The sand is good for kids to play in all day and there are lots of dunes that have wild grasses growing on them to explore as well. And then there are the rockpools that are revealed at low tide.
Another plus for the kids and animal lovers is that seals are regularly spotted near the beach. You just have to look out to sea and hope you get lucky. Aside from these creatures, all sorts of seabirds frequent this craggy part of the Cornish coastline. Lifeguards man the beach during the summer and there’s a big car park nearby. From it, there’s a path leading to the clifftop and then down some steps and through the sand dunes. Dogs are not allowed here during the summer months, though, but there are toilets and a café too. Come to this beach near St Ives and Hayle if you want space, fine views and the chance of spotting a cute seal or two.