Portheras Cove

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Portheras Cove is an isolated, large, sandy beach on the north coast of the Land's End Peninsula between Pendeen and Morvah.

Hidden at the end of a valley, Portheras Cove can only be accessed by walking. The beach is north facing, backed by high cliffs and owned by the Duchy of Cornwall.

On the 13th September 1963, the 454 ton cargo ship MV Alacrity, carrying anthracite from Swansea to Brussels, ran aground here and broke into pieces. For many years parts of the beach could not be used because of sharp, slithers of metal hidden in the sand but in 2004 most of the wreck was cleared away making the beach safer. We have never seen fragments of metal here but it is best to take care as winter storms can uncover more pieces of the Alacrity.

It is a good place to observe seals.

This is not the best beach for swimming as there can be powerful rip currents, especially at low water. Bodyboarding is popular here at high water when it offers a good shorebreak. There are a few rock pools at the western end of the beach.

Safety equipment is available near the access to the beach.
No lifeguard cover.

Portheras Cove is dog friendly with dogs allowed on the beach all year round.

There are no facilities.

The nearest car parks are at Chypraze Farm and near Pendeen Lighthouse.

If you have parked at the farm, take the public footpath past the farm and down the valley, cross the stream and scramble onto the beach.

If you have parked at Pendeen Watch, follow the coast path for about 0.5 mile/1 km and then take the footpath onto the beach.

Location:
Sat Nav TR19 7TU

OS grid ref. SW 3902 3572

OS Explorer Map 102

OS Explorer 102

Road directions to Portheras Cove

Books online:
Click here to buy books online about Portheras Cove

  Topical phrases of the month October: 'Festival Phrases'

  Place Name of the Month October: Karrekreun – Cargreen