Our Guide to Maenporth Beach
BeachesAlong a vibrant coast path, you will find the sandy cove of Maenporth Beach on the outskirts of Falmouth.
Once a natural harbour, this shallow inlet gently slopes into the sea and is the perfect location for family fun at the beach. Sheltered by the surrounding cliffs, the water is favoured by swimmers, kayakers and paddle boarders alike, whilst the low tide rock pools are perfect for those children who prefer to keep their feet safely on the ground!
So what are some of the things that make Maenporth beach the perfect place to spend a day warm on the sands?
Maenporth comes from the Cornish Meyn Borth, meaning ‘stones cove’. This name comes from the stunning stony cliffs and wooded valleys that turn this into a calm cove perfect for any number of water activities!
It may also be named for the countless rock pools uncovered at low tide that can be explored, or the caves that appear along the edges of the cove. But be careful, the tide can come in quickly!
Just two miles from Falmouth, the coastal path to Maenporth boasts impressive views out across Falmouth Bay, and you can always take a detour to enjoy Swanpool Beach along the way!
Spend an hour meandering the south west coast path, enjoying the sights before arriving at your destination for a well-earned day of beach fun!
The coast path continues on from Maenporth, heading further into the Helford and their riverside beaches!
Another way to access the beach is a short drive from Falmouth along the country roads, right up to the beach!
We mean right up to it too, the car park is almost on the beach itself! Separated from the sand by well-placed rocks to prevent any automotive accidents, you can unpack your car right onto the beach itself! Very convenient for those with children or water sports equipment.
There is a parking charge, which can be found at Life's a Beach Cafe.
Cornwall’s south coast is a fantastic treasure trove of rockpools, and Maenporth is no exception!
Once the tide has retreated you will find rock pools and caves stretching out from the beach waiting to be explored. Look for anemones, fish, hermit crabs or the occasional starfish, and make a game out of who can find the biggest limpet!
Your adventures aren’t limited to the shore!
Just off the coast of Maenporth, across the rocks to Newporth Head, you will find the wreckage of the Ben Asdale, a Scottish trawler lost to a storm in 1978!
Wrecked after delivering Mackerel, the ship can now be reached at low tide, either paddle out to the close wreckage or scramble carefully over the rocks for a closer look.
Open seven days a week for all of your beach snack needs, Life’s a Beach cafe is situated right on the beach for easy snack runs and refreshments.
Whether you’re looking for a breakfast bap after an early morning dip, light bites or beachside favourites, their menu is full of flavoursome treats that mean you can spend the whole day enjoying the beach without moving very far!
Visiting Maenporth Beach, Falmouth
A short distance from Falmouth, a calm cove to explore, Maenporth is an unsung hero of the Falmouth coastline. With views across Falmouth from the surrounding coast path, calm waters and warm sand, Maenporth should definitely be on your visit list during your next stay in the beautiful seaside town.
Create memories or sit back and enjoy the sea breeze and golden sun during your next visit with St Michaels Resort. Get ready for your next stay today with help from our friendly team to create your new booking or for more information about the area!