Porthleven is a great town but its main beach elevates it to glorious holiday destination. Welcome to three miles of golden sands and shingle that you’ll want to spend more than just an hour on.
Porthleven Beach runs east from the town’s historic harbour and keeps the streets and shops at its back throughout. At low tide, visitors can walk to the nearby Loe Bar, which is a half-mile shingle bank that separates the largest natural freshwater lake in the county, the Loe Pool. It’s a beautiful walk that adds an extra dimension to a trip to Porthleven Beach.
It’s far from super-safe out in the water at the beach, though. The surf can be decent but it’s best left to experienced boardies due to strong undercurrents. In fact, bathing isn’t particularly advised either but there are plenty of lifeguards on the sands in the summer months so ask them whether it’s safe to go for a dip.
Dogs are welcome on Porthleven Beach apart from the summer months. And you’re welcome to spread your towel out any time. It’s worth enjoying the fine sands, soaking up the sun and taking an occasional swim if it’s safe to do so before heading back into town and enjoying the many shops and eateries that make Porthleven a must-visit on any trip to the far reaches of Cornwall.