Puffins Wing: Seaside Self-Catering Cottage in Trevone Bay, Cornwall

Trevone Bay – A Stunning North Cornwall Beach Near Padstow

Trevone Bay is one of North Cornwall’s most picturesque coastal gems, located just a short distance from the bustling harbour town of Padstow. With its sweeping sandy cove, dramatic cliff scenery and access to some of the most scenic sections of the South West Coast Path, Trevone Bay has become a favourite destination for holidaymakers, walkers and watersports enthusiasts. Whether you’re planning a family beach holiday, a coastal adventure or a peaceful retreat by the sea, Trevone Bay offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife and Cornish charm.

A Beautiful and Sheltered North Cornwall Beach

The main beach at Trevone Bay is a sheltered, golden-sand cove framed by rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters. At low tide, the beach opens out into a wide expanse of soft sand, ideal for sunbathing, beach games and paddling. The semi-enclosed nature of the bay makes it a safe and popular swimming spot, especially for families with young children. During the summer months, Trevone Bay benefits from a seasonal RNLI lifeguard service, adding peace of mind for those heading into the water.

For surfers and bodyboarders, Trevone Bay offers consistent waves that break onto the sandy shore, providing suitable conditions for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Its reliable surf, combined with the bay’s easy access and scenic surroundings, makes it a go-to location for watersports lovers seeking high-quality but less crowded surf than some of Cornwall’s more well-known beaches.

Rockpools, Caves and Natural Features

Trevone Bay is also an exceptional spot for rockpooling. As the tide recedes, a network of shallow pools reveals itself along the rocky edges of the bay, filled with crabs, anemones, shrimps and colourful marine species. Children and adults alike enjoy exploring these miniature underwater worlds, making rockpooling one of the most popular beach activities in Trevone.

To the east of the main beach lies Little Trevone Beach, a quieter rocky alcove accessible via a natural archway often referred to as Rocky Beach. This secluded corner is a favourite for snorkellers, photographers and those looking for a peaceful coastal escape.

Another notable natural landmark close to the bay is the famous Trevone “Blowhole”, a dramatic geological feature where a collapsed sea cave has created a deep, circular hole in the cliffside. When the tide and swell are right, waves surge beneath the cliffs and send spectacular bursts of sea spray into the air.

Trevone Nature Reserve and Wildlife

The surrounding coastline forms part of the Trevone Nature Reserve, an area protected and managed by the National Trust. The reserve encompasses cliff-top grasslands, wildflower meadows and rugged pathways filled with diverse flora and fauna. Throughout spring and summer, the cliffs are carpeted with sea thrift, gorse and heather, transforming the headlands into a colourful natural display.

Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting seabirds such as fulmars, razorbills and cormorants, while offshore sightings may include grey seals, pods of dolphins and occasionally basking sharks gliding through the clear Cornish waters. The reserve’s untouched beauty and rich biodiversity make Trevone Bay a haven for nature photographers and walkers seeking unforgettable coastal views.

Walking the South West Coast Path

Trevone Bay sits directly on the iconic South West Coast Path, offering visitors easy access to some of the most spectacular walks in North Cornwall. One of the most rewarding routes is the coastal walk from Trevone to Trevose Head Lighthouse, a striking white tower perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This scenic hike provides panoramic views, wildlife lookout points and opportunities to explore remote coves and headlands.

Another popular walk leads from Trevone Bay towards Padstow, following a clifftop route that reveals sweeping views over the Camel Estuary and the surrounding countryside. The path is suitable for most abilities, with plenty of places to stop for photos or simply take in the scenery.

Local Facilities and Amenities

Despite its relatively wild and natural feel, Trevone Bay offers a range of convenient facilities. These include:

• A large public car park, located just a short walk from the beach
• Public toilets
• A seasonal lifeguard service (summer months)
• A beach café and a village pub offering snacks, meals and refreshments

The beach is dog-friendly during the off-peak season, with restrictions in place during the height of summer. Even on busy days, Trevone Bay retains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and its wide sandy beach ensures it rarely feels overcrowded.

History and Heritage of Trevone

The area surrounding Trevone has a rich history. Archaeological evidence reveals Bronze Age settlements and Iron Age fortifications on the nearby clifftops. The name "Trevone" is derived from the Cornish words Tre (meaning "farm" or "settlement") and Vone ("sandy"), a fitting name for this historic coastal landscape.

The farming heritage of the region continues today, with many local fields and cliff-top meadows still farmed by longstanding Cornish families.

Discovering Padstow – A Harbour Town Full of Character

Just two miles from Trevone Bay lies Padstow, one of Cornwall’s most iconic harbour towns. Known for its vibrant fishing port, narrow streets, boutiques and award-winning restaurants, Padstow is a must-visit destination for anyone staying in Trevone.

The historic harbour is the heart of the town, lined with seafood restaurants, galleries, pasty shops and cafés. Visitors can enjoy fresh local fish landed daily or join boat trips offering fishing excursions, scenic tours or wildlife spotting along the Camel Estuary.

Padstow is also a notable foodie capital, home to nationally renowned restaurants and celebrated local produce. From traditional bakeries to fine dining, Padstow caters to every taste.

The Camel Estuary – A Spectacular Natural Haven

To the south of Trevone Bay, the Camel Estuary stretches inland between Padstow and Wadebridge. This wide, tidal river estuary is known for its serene, sheltered waters and unspoilt beauty. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), it is a paradise for birdwatchers, walkers and watersports enthusiasts.

Popular activities on the Camel Estuary include:

• Kayaking and paddleboarding on calm, scenic waters
• Cycling the Camel Trail, a flat, traffic-free route from Padstow to Bodmin
• Sailing and windsurfing
• Birdwatching, with species including oystercatchers, curlews and egrets

With its tranquil mudflats, sparkling waters and expansive views, the Camel Estuary offers a beautiful contrast to the wilder Atlantic coastline at Trevone Bay.

A Perfect North Cornwall Escape

Whether you’re drawn to Trevone Bay for its sandy beaches, rockpools and surf, to Padstow for its harbour charm, or to the Camel Estuary for peaceful waterside walks, this part of North Cornwall delivers an unforgettable coastal experience. With its rich history, breathtaking scenery and abundance of outdoor activities, Trevone Bay remains one of Cornwall’s most treasured holiday destinations — a place where visitors return year after year to enjoy relaxation, adventure and the timeless beauty of the Cornish coast.