Gwithian Towans, England

About Gwithian Towans, England

Gwithian Towans is a village located to the east side of St Ives Bay, Cornwall, and boasts a huge, gorgeous sandy beach, which is ideal for downwinders with absolutely epic waves. Park on top of the cliffs, and you can look west across the gently curving St Ives Bay from the harbour town of the same name to the stark white lighthouse on Godrevy Point. In front of the car park is a slippery cliff descent to the beach, known locally as the ‘goat track’. The main beach can be reached by a less severe, but ultimately longer path. Depending upon the size of the swell, low to mid tides can offer some relatively safe wave sailing. For those kiting in front of the car park, be aware that when the tide touches the rocks, it is time to head east towards Godrevy Lighthouse and the main beach or Red River. Here care needs to be taken with a daunting shore break, which dumps progressively more viciously as the high tide draws near. There are a few rocks directly in front of the car park to watch out for, and it is worth chatting to the locals, or the lifeguards if they are on duty, before venturing out.

Traveling to Gwithian Towans, England

The nearest rail station is at Hayle, from where you can catch a bus to travel the remaining 3km to Gwithian Towans itself. If coming by car, the easiest route is to take the A30 to the Hayle roundabout, then follow the signs to Hayle. Within 100 metres you will encounter a double roundabout; on the second one take a right turn up the hill for just over a mile on the B3301. Driving past a couple of holiday parks on your left, you come to a fairly sharp right-hand bend with an entrance to the car park on the left. Follow the track over the speed bumps until you reach the large car park overlooking the beach. Parking is plentiful and there are pay-and-display machines in summer.

Facilities At Gwithian Towans, England

There are various guesthouses set back from the bay, however you may be interested in renting one of the chalets situated on the beach itself. We recommend you visit Cornish Cottage Holiday's website for some accommodation ideas. There are also several cafes and bars plus a surf shop. If you want to maximise your time on the water or get some quality kite and surf tuition while in Cornwall, we recommend contacting Pasty Adventures. Lee offer's a wealth of local knowledge enabling you to visit the most amazing places.