Coverack Beach

Situated on the more sheltered eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula is the pretty little fishing village of Coverack. The harbour here is particularly photogenic with its granite walls, wooden fishing boats and clutch of whitewashed cottages above. This is quite a remote part of the Cornish coast so rarely draws too much of a crowd beyond those staying in the area and a few locals.

Stretching out beyond the harbour mouth is a small bay backed by a seawall. Towards the high tide mark there are quite a few rocky sections, but as the tide goes out a good-sized expanse of golden-white sand is revealed. This makes Coverack beach not only ideal for playing family games, but for letting your dog have a run - dogs are allowed all year round.

Despite tourism being the main industry in town these days, a number of traditions still persist including the Christmas Day swim. This charity event dates back 50 years with brave locals and visitors alike taking a dip in the harbour.

Just off the coast to the north of Coverack is the notorious Manacles reef which have sunk dozens of ships over the years. Just visible from the beach at low tide the granite of this huge reef is one of the best diving sites in the UK with not only wrecks but a wealth of sealife.On the subject of sealife, Coverack bay is a good place to spot dolphins.