Before you set off
Today's snapshot
Maenporth is sheltered and shallow, and accessible at any state of tide, with low tide giving the best rock pools. Its east-facing position keeps it calmer than more exposed beaches nearby.
Plan your visit
Getting there
A fee-paying car park sits directly behind the beach, with level access onto the sand. It is run by the Maenporth Estate rather than the council, so bring cash or a card for the machine.
- Parking: A fee-paying car park directly behind the beach, with level access onto the sand, managed by the Maenporth Estate.
- Dog rules: Dogs banned 1 July - 31 August, 10am - 6pm (Cornwall Council PSPO). Dogs welcome before 10am, after 6pm during this period, and all day the rest of the year.
- Lifeguards: There is no confirmed RNLI lifeguard cover at Maenporth, so swim with caution, especially with children.
- Offshore: The wreck of the trawler Ben Asdale, grounded in a 1978 storm, is visible in the bay at low tide and is a popular spot for local divers.
Get in the water
Hire & lessons
Maenporth has paddleboard, kayak and surf lessons available directly from the beach.
Falmouth Surf School & Watersports
Paddleboard and kayak hire plus surf lessons from Maenporth beach, including SUP yoga and fitness sessions.
After the beach
Eat, drink & stay
A restaurant above the beach and a café on the sand cover everything from breakfast to dinner with a view.
The Cove at Maenporth
A restaurant and bar above the beach with sea views, a seasonal locally sourced menu and live music through summer.
Local perspective
Local notes
Maenporth's gentle, shallow slope and wooded headlands can make it a practical family beach in settled conditions.
The coast path from Gyllyngvase through Swanpool to Maenporth is a scenic short walk and is worth doing in at least one direction if you have the energy after a swim.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is Maenporth beach dog friendly?
Dogs banned 1 July - 31 August, 10am - 6pm (Cornwall Council PSPO). Dogs welcome before 10am, after 6pm during this period, and all day the rest of the year.
What's the best tide for Maenporth?
Maenporth is accessible at any state of tide, though low tide gives the best rock pools.
Are there lifeguards at Maenporth?
There is no confirmed RNLI lifeguard cover, so take extra care, particularly with children in the water.
Where do you park for Maenporth beach?
A fee-paying car park directly behind the beach, run by the Maenporth Estate, with level access onto the sand.
Is it safe to swim at Maenporth today?
Check the Environment Agency Swimfo profile and Safer Seas & Rivers Service before swimming.
Is Maenporth pram or buggy friendly?
The car park sits directly behind the beach, with a level approach to the edge of the sand. Loose sand may still be difficult for prams and wheelchairs.
What facilities are available at Maenporth?
Maenporth has public toilets behind the beach, level access from the car park, and a seasonal café and restaurant nearby.
Keep exploring