Greenbank Cove

The stretch of coast between Portreath and Gwithian known as North Cliffs is characterised by high, rugged cliffs backed by the level heathland of Reskajeage Downs. In the winter this is a foreboding place and it is not difficult to imagine why there are places with names such as Hell's Mouth and Deadman's Cove.

Unbeknown to many people there are actually a handful of quite nice sandy beaches at the foot of the cliffs here. Greenbank Cove is the middle one of these and whilst it has the widest stretch of sand, it is also the most difficult to get down to. 

All the North Cliff beaches involve what some might view as a terrifying scrabble down the 200 feet (70m) cliffs and Greenbank is no exception. An alternative low tide route to the cove involves walking around from Bassett's Cove, although this is still a fairly intimidating cliff to get down. 

The beach at Greenbank Cove is lovely but besides the dangers of actually getting here it is also advisable to stay away from the cliff face (in case of rock falls) and with no lifeguard cover and strong currents, swimming is not advised.
It is also worth noting not much of the beach remains when the tide comes in.