Porthcressa Beach

  • Porthcressa Beach
    © Cornwall Beaches
  • Porthcressa Beach
    © Stephen Rees / 123rf.com
  • Porthcressa
    © Cornwall Beaches
  • Porthcressa from Buzza Hill - St Marys
    © Cornwall Beaches
  • Porthcressa promenade
    © Cornwall Beaches
  • Last updated:

    Porthcressa beach is a beautiful sandy beach located on the southern side of the Scilly Isles 'capital', Hugh Town. Whilst Town beach to the north is just a touch easier to get to, Porthcressa is a much nicer beach.


    The sand here is very fine and leads down to the sheltered, turquoise waters of Porthcressa bay. It is backed by promenade which is home to the tourist information centre, a cafe and toilets. As such it is one of the best family beaches in Scilly and worth the 2 and a half hour ferry ride just for a few hours on the beach here.


    Swimming is fairly safe here being quite sheltered and shallow. However, there is no lifeguard service so caution is advised. It's also a great spot for snorkelling.

    Type of beach

    Sandy

    Lifeguard service

    No lifeguard cover

    Dogs friendly beach?

    Seasonal dog ban. 1st of May to 30th September

    dog friendly beaches »

    Disabled access

    Beach is within easy distance of town and harbour. Access via ramp with sand chair available from Town Hall (01720 422537)

    OS grid ref.

    SV 9034 1041