Polzeath Beach

A perfect surfing beach, west-facing Polzeath is a Blue Flag award-winning beach, which is easily accessible. It tends to long, slow-breaking surfing waves; hence, its immense popularity in an area packed with a superb choice of beaches to visit.

POLZEATH WEATHER

Beach Overview

Polzeath Beach is one of Cornwall’s most celebrated surf spots, with a wide expanse of golden sand and consistently good waves rolling in from the Atlantic. Not far from Rock, it’s popular with families, surfers, and coastal walkers, it has a lively yet laid‑back atmosphere. The beach is backed by cafés, surf shops, and parking just steps from the sand, making it as convenient as it is beautiful. At low tide, the beach opens out into a huge sandy playground, perfect for beach games, rockpooling, or walking across to Baby Bay. Here’s everything you need to know…

Lifeguards & Safety

Polzeath has RNLI lifeguard patrols throughout the main season, making it a safe choice for swimming and surfing.

Polzeath Lifeguard Patrol Dates 2025
Patrol times: 10am – 6pm

• 29 March – 14 April (Daily)

• 19 April – 5 May (Weekends only)

• 24 May – 29 September (Daily)

•  4 – 19 October (Weekends only)

• 25 October – 2 November (October half term daily)

Always swim or surf between the red and yellow (swimmers/bodyboarders) or black and white (surfboards/kayaks/SUPs) flags.

Surf & Watersports

With its gentle, consistent beach break, Polzeath is perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. Several surf schools operate directly on the sand, including Wavehunters, offering lessons, equipment hire, and advice on the best conditions. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular on calmer days, and the bay’s shallow shelving makes it safer for learners.

Mid to low tide offers the most space for beach games and walking; all tides are great for surfing, depending on swell.

Dog Rules

Dogs are not allowed on Polzeath Beach from 15 May to 30 September between 10am–6pm. Outside these times and dates, dogs are welcome. Nearby Greenaway Beach and Daymer Bay offer alternative year‑round dog‑friendly walks.

Facilities & Accessibility

Polzeath is extremely well‑equipped for a beach day. Facilities include public toilets (including accessible), outdoor showers, surf hire, cafés, restaurants, and shops right by the beach.

The closest parking the large beachfront pay‑and‑display car park (PL27 6TB) for quick access to the sand.

The beach is flat and sandy, with level access from the main car park making it wheelchair and pushchair friendly. Sandchairs, or beach wheelchairs, are available for hire at Polzeath Beach through Wavehunters Surf School.

Coast Path & Nearby Walks

The South West Coast Path offers outstanding walks from Polzeath. Head north to Pentire Point for breathtaking cliff views, or south to Daymer Bay for a gentler, sandy stroll. Both routes deliver sweeping seascapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Eat & Drink Nearby

From post‑surf snacks to sunset dining, Polzeath delivers. Beachfront favourites like Surfside serve fresh seafood and cocktails, while The Waterfront offers hearty pub classics. Grab a coffee and cake at Tubestation Café, or head to nearby Rock for more dining options.

Rainy Day Option

If the weather turns, explore the shops in Wadebridge or visit the National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of Polzeath’s sea‑view eateries while watching the Atlantic waves roll in.