Cornwall: where stunning coastlines meet crystal clear waters.
Ever considered paddle boarding along picturesque coves and dramatic cliffs?
Discover the best places to paddle board in Cornwall and embark on your unforgettable adventure.
Dive in and let’s explore Cornwall’s breathtaking beauty together. Are you ready?
Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Cornwall
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Watergate Bay
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Watergate Bay Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, wind swell, offshore breezes
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional seals
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Dramatic cliffs, wide sandy beach
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of strong winds and currents, follow local guidelines
Watergate Bay is a popular paddle boarding destination on the North Cornish coast.
The expansive beach offers a safe haven for beginners, whilst more advanced paddlers can venture further out to catch waves or explore the rugged coastline. With its crystal clear waters and stunning views, Watergate Bay is an ideal spot for all skill levels.
#2 Gannel Estuary
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Tidal Road, Crantock (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm tidal river, sheltered from wind
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Wading birds, egrets, herons
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Beautiful unspoiled estuary, surrounding marshland
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Check tide times, respect local wildlife habitat
The Gannel Estuary in Newquay offers a tranquil paddle boarding experience, as you glide through the serene waters of this tidal river and explore the marshy surroundings.
Perfect for nature enthusiasts, the unspoiled estuary is brimming with birdlife. Remember to check tide times before embarking on your journey.
#3 Stithians Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Stithians Lake, Watersports Centre (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, occasional breeze
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Wading birds, geese, ducks
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Rolling hills, watersports centre, dam
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow local guidelines, be mindful of other watersports
Stithians Lake, located near Redruth, is a peaceful inland waterway perfect for paddleboarding.
The calm waters offer a safe environment for beginners, whilst more experienced paddlers can enjoy exploring the lake’s perimeter and take in the idyllic Cornish countryside. The on-site watersports centre also provides equipment rental and guidance.
#4 Helford River
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Grebe Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered river, mild currents
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Kingfishers, herons, various fish species
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Lush woodland, creeks, small sandy beaches
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, respect private properties
Helford River boasts picturesque scenery and calm, sheltered waters, making it an ideal spot for paddle boarding.
As you meander through this stunning river, you’ll be treated to sandy beaches, hidden creeks, and lush woodland. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, including various fish species and charming kingfishers.
#5 St. Agnes
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Trevaunance Cove (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, changing currents
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seals, seabirds
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Rugged coastline, historic tin mines
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of changing conditions, respect local guidelines
St. Agnes, situated on the North Cornish coast, offers a unique paddleboarding experience amid a dramatic and rugged coastline. Paddle along the shoreline of Trevaunance Cove, past historic tin mines and imposing cliffs.
Keep a lookout for seals and seabirds as you explore this atmospheric location. Be mindful of changing conditions, and always follow local guidelines.
#6 Constantine Bay
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Constantine Bay Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Mild waves, tidal influence
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional seals
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Sandy beach, rocky outcrops, dune-backed coves
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of rip currents, respect local beach rules
Constantine Bay, near Padstow, is a beautiful sandy beach offering idyllic conditions for paddleboarding. Navigate through the bay’s clear waters, explore dune-backed coves, and enjoy the striking ocean views.
Be cautious of rip currents, particularly on windy days, and always adhere to local beach rules.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Cornwall?
Popular locations for paddle boarding in Cornwall include St. Ives, Newquay, Polzeath, and Falmouth.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Cornwall?
No, there is no requirement to register paddle boards in Cornwall.
When is the best time to paddle board in Cornwall?
The ideal time for paddle boarding in Cornwall is during the summer, when the water temperature is warmest.
