A guide to Cornwall’s best sea views

Take a moment and breathe in the fresh sea air as you gaze in awe at the elemental freedom of Cornwall’s coast. Stretching 645km, this world-renowned coastline no doubt offers some of the most spectacular views in the UK.

Famed for its dramatic cliffs on the north coast and gentler formations on the south, the land is characterised by the sea that meets it, and, today, iconic images of this natural wonder has swept the online world – rivalling the likes of the Caribbean.

With ocean on three sides, there’s no shortage of places to scout for hidden gems that don’t always make it to the guidebooks or social media, though.

Here are some of the top views you don’t want to miss on your trip to Cornwall – and how to find ones off the beaten track.

Land’s End

Travel to the far reaches of Cornwall, and you’ll find Land’s End – the most westerly point of England. With notoriously wild weather and steeped in mythological lore, it is perhaps one of the most dramatic seascapes in the west of the county.

Gazing over the Atlantic sea, the view is characterised by Longships Lighthouse and Wolf Rock Lighthouse, which are both visible from the sheer cliffs. And, while an attraction has built up here over time, it is still the natural beauty of the coastline that draws visitors here in droves.

Those travelling to the area can park at the Land’s End Landmark attraction (parking for cars starts at £7 and £10 for motorhomes). However, you can also make a day of hiking and park nearby at Porthgwarra or Sennen for a truly memorable coastal experience.

Kynance Cove

With pristine white sand, turquoise water and red and green sea stacks, Kynance Cove boasts one of the most iconic (and photographed) views on Cornwall’s south coast. From the top of the cliffs, no matter what direction you look, it’s easy to see why.

At low tide, explore caves and islands dotted along this small stretch of coast (but be aware of fast-moving tides), or, on those wild and windy days, why not stop in at the café to watch the waves, with a cuppa to warm you up?

Maintained by the National Trust, the beach can be accessed via two paths (one more gentle and one more steep, taking around 15 minutes) that lead back to an easily-accessed car park at the top of the cliff. Note this spot can become incredibly busy during peak season, so arrive early to nab a space!

Carnewas at Bedruthan Steps

Less than 30 minutes by car from Lewinnick Lodge, Bedruthan Steps is a long stretch of coast littered with stacks and volcanic rock formations that spike up from its golden sands at low tide.

The stacks are still visible at high, though, and this striking view has become one of the most popular stop-offs for visitors from Newquay and the surrounding areas.

While the steps currently remain closed following major rock falls, enjoy the views from the top of the cliffs where, during the summer months, the landscape is a river of Cornish pinks.

Please note, dangerous sea currents and a significant risk of getting cut off by the tide along this stretch of coast mean adventurers need to be extra careful when visiting this area.

Off the beaten track

The best views are, arguably, the ones that aren’t always easy to get to, where fewer people have walked before and the world suddenly becomes a quieter place.

So, if you’ve got a sturdy pair of walking boots and the stamina to get some miles under your feet, there’s no better way to experience Cornwall at its best – you can even start from some of the iconic locations above, which offer even more beauty in either direction on their coastlines.

If you’re looking for something a little bit different, though, check out the iWalk Cornwall app, which will help you navigate routes to your skill level for the best chance to see some awe-inspiring scenery.

Lewinnick Lodge

There’s more than one way to enjoy Cornwall’s coastline and the ocean views around Newquay – and one of our favourites is whiling the evening away on our sea-facing terrace here at Lewinnick Lodge.

As one of the top hotels in Cornwall with a sea view, it offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Newquay – just a few minutes away by car.

Enjoy a crisp glass of wine as you watch the sunset over the craggy cliffs, and keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife. When you’re done, retire to one of our luxury boutique hotel rooms. With vistas across the Atlantic, our rooms boast breath-taking ocean views from large windows that bring the outside in.

To book your visit, click here.