Sennen Cove Beach

About Sennen Cove Beach

Sennen beach is situated just around the corner from Land's End, the most westerly point in mainland Britain. Whilst the village sits in the lee of the mighty Pedn-men-du headland the large crescent of sandy beach faces the full force of the Atlantic Ocean making it a popular spot for surfers. A well equipped lifeguard service operates in the summer when it is generally safe to swim.

The beach at Sennen Cove is called Whitesands Bay and it almost lives up to this name with almost a mile of fine sand stretching around to neighbouring Gwenver beach. Near the middle of the beach a shallow valley with a small stream runs down to the sea. The sand dunes here offer shelter and it is generally a little quieter on the far side of the stream.

Access to the beach is easy from the large car park and there are toilets here. The village centre is located just a minute or two away with a couple of shops, cafes and pub. There's also a fairly upmarket restaurant right on the beach.

Visiting Sennen Cove Beach

As with all of Cornwall's beaches it is important to check the tides when planning a vist. We would recommend aiming for low to mid tide as the beach size is much reduced at higher tides. See Sennen Cove Beach tide times.

When is the best time to visit Sennen Cove Beach

Whilst there is always a good-sized patch of sand towards the middle and far end of the beach, the high tide comes pretty much up to the rocks in front of the car park. Therefore we would recommend aiming for anywhere between and hour or two of high tide and low tide. At low tide the beach is fairly expansive.

Given how lovely and family friendly Sennen Beach is it does get busy during the summer holidays. We wouldn't say to avoid this time of year as there is usually enough parking and the far end of the beach rarely gets busy.

Where is Sennen Cove Beach

Sennen is the first and last village in mainland Britain, sitting less than a mile along the coast from Land's End. Given its extreme westerly position the beach is often on the receiving end of some dramatic Atlantic weather. This is great news for the surfers who flock to Sennen year round.

Nearest town: Penzance

Find accommodation near Sennen Cove Beach

Directions

Follow the A30 towards Land's End - It's the last turning on the right signposted Sennen Cove.

Parking

The main car park is located right on the beach and has about 200 spaces. In the summer holidays this will generally fill up by around 10am, but fortunately there are a couple of other options.

At the top of the hill, behind the main car park, is an overflow car park. It is very slightly cheaper, but you may not enjoy the walk back up the hill after a day on the beach!

At the far end of the cove, in the village is a further car park operated by the Sennen Cove harbour commissioners.

Access - How to get down to the beach

There is access to the beach via the slipway at the far western end next to the car park. This is only suitable at low tide though.

Is Sennen Cove Beach dog friendly?

There is a seasonal dog ban in force at Sennen Beach. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 15th May to 30th September between 10am and 6pm.

Does Sennen Cove Beach have lifeguards

There are often powerful waves and strong currents at Sennen Beach but fortunately there is well equipped team of RNLI lifeguards on duty.

This year lifeguards will be covering the beach from Easter bank holiday until the beginning of November between 10am and 6pm.

What facilities are there at Sennen Cove Beach?

Toilets, beach cafe/restaurant, shop and surf hire. The village is about 2 minutes walk.

Things to do at Sennen Cove Beach

Surfing: Sennen Beach is one of the best surfing beaches in Cornwall. Well known for the consistent swells that power in, uninterrupted, the waves here offer something for all level, from novice to expert levels. The beach's surf school offers lessons and equipment hire, ensuring a guaranteed fun on the waves.

Coastal Walking: The South West Coast Path dips down into Sennen Cove before it reaches Land's End. As you round the headland of Pedn Men Dhu you will be greeted by stunning views back across the cove and views stretching towards the horizon in the other direction. The path in the opposite direction is less well-trodden with ancient landscapes leading to Cape Cornwall, each step a showcase of the rugged beauty of Cornwall's coast.

Wildlife Watching: The area around Sennen is rich in marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for seals bobbing in the sea off the rocks and the myriad of birdlife. If you are lucky you might even spot dolphins, or during certain times of the year, the occasional basking shark.

Sandcastles & rockpools: The expansive sandy beach is perfect for families to enjoy the some traditional seaside activites. In addition to building sandcastle there is also a stream mid-beach - perfect for damming. The section of beach in front of the car park is home to a number of rockpools which are fine to explore from mid tide and lower.

Sunset Watching: Facing due west Sennen Beach is famous for its sunsets. This is the perfect spot to take in the pink, orange, and purple hues as the sun drops behind the horizon. Time it right and you can enjoy a drink on the terrace at the cafe.