South Cornwall beach guide
Kynance Cove
A National Trust cove on the Lizard, with turquoise water, white shell sand and serpentine rock stacks that only fully appear as the tide drops.
Plan a visit to Kynance Cove
A year around the Lizard
SOUTH CORNWALL'S SEA TEMPERATURE CYCLE
Twelve monthly averages from Kynance Cove. One slow seasonal rise and fall.
The Atlantic through the year
The sea takes its time
Around Kynance Cove, the long-term average is coolest in March and warmest in August.
The water keeps cooling after the shortest days, then holds onto summer warmth into September. It is a slow, smooth cycle rather than a switch between seasons.
6.9°C
average seasonal rise
March 10.1° to August 17.0°
Average monthly sea temperature
A year in the water
Cool blue winter water gradually gives way to warmer teal through summer, before the curve eases back down.
Cooler
Warmer
- Jan 10.7°C
- Feb 10.2°C
- Mar 10.1°C
- Apr 10.8°C
- May 12.7°C
- Jun 15.0°C
- Jul 16.9°C
- Aug 17.0°C
- Sep 16.3°C
- Oct 14.8°C
- Nov 13.4°C
- Dec 11.9°C
Use the averages
Turn the curve into a beach day
Temperature is only one part of the plan. Check the tide, access, lifeguards and local notes for these South Cornwall beaches.
South Cornwall beach guide
Poldhu Cove
A broad, dune-backed sandy beach on the Lizard, below the clifftop site of Marconi's first transatlantic radio transmission.
Plan a visit to Poldhu Cove
South Cornwall beach guide
Praa Sands
A long, open, south-facing beach in Mount's Bay, with a mile of sand, consistent surf and room to spread out.
Plan a visit to Praa Sands