With all the hubbub surrounding its association with the fictitious Portwenn in TV series ‘Doc Martin’, as well as with the iconic Fisherman’s Friends singing group and film, it’d be easy to neglect the fact that Port Isaac also has one of north Cornwall’s most photographic and interesting beaches. A wander through the meandering village lanes inevitably ends up at Port Isaac’s historic harbour, which is also its beach.
The whole area feels like it’s from another time. In days gone by, boatloads of slate from nearby Delabole set sail from here and today there’s still a visible small fishing industry that focuses on catching crabs, so expect to see rigging and crab pots adorning the beach and harbour sides.
Located in a sheltered spot encircled by cliffs, Port Isaac Beach is safe for all visitors. The small fishing boats become grounded at low tide as a long expanse of sand is revealed. Kids love playing in the rockpools that flank the sand, as well as in the stream that runs down the beach. While the rugrats are happy, parents are also in their element because the beach really is in the centre of the village, so there’s easy access to hot drinks and bites to eat.
One of the best features of this beach is that despite its location in one of Cornwall’s hottest villages, it’s rarely overly busy. Most visitors nip on to the sands for a quick whistlestop visit during a trip to Port Isaac. But we’d recommend taking a little longer after you’ve made a special trip for this little gem. It’s a family beach day out with historical and beautiful scenery like no other.