Our Guide to Maenporth Beach, Falmouth

1. This pretty sandy beach means ‘stones cove’ in Cornish. It’s sheltered in a wooded valley, soaked in sunshine, and is just two miles from Falmouth town.

2. It offers everything you need for the ultimate beach day – sun bathing, snorkelling, fishing, kayaking, toe-dipping and boating.

3. If you fancy a longer stroll, Maenporth is 45-60 minute walk from St Michaels via the South West Coast Path (which links it to Gyllyngvase Beach and Swanpool, if you’re a beach junkie.)

4. Or you can park directly behind the beach, which is £3 per visit during summer.

5. Maenporth is in a prime location with panoramic views across Falmouth Bay and Pendennis Castle, plus good coastal walks onwards towards the Helford.

6. Nature enthusiast? Try rock pooling in its shallow waters or bring your binoculars. It’s a rich hub for sea critters and birdlife – from starfish and urchins to herons and egrets.

7. Life’s a Beach is Maenporth’s café – with a chilled out atmosphere, it’s a great retreat to savour a fresh crab sandwich or home-made soup if it’s chilly.

8. If you forget your bucket, spade, fishing lines or even a wetsuit, the friendly folk here can kit you out.

9. If the tide is low, you can follow the rocks down the left-hand side of the cove and might be lucky enough to find the famous shipwreck of the Ben Asdale enveloped in the sand.

10. There are regular yoga sessions on the beach ran by a lovely lady called Naomi if you fancy finding your inner calm.

Or head to the beach at sunrise or sunset to try SUP Yoga on a paddle board.