Rock, tidal and sea pools in Cornwall
Swimming in Cornwall
Aside from our own beautiful Oasis swimming pools, we of course have so much choice when it comes to swimming in Cornwall.
As the summer approaches, you may start thinking of sun, sea and sand. And when the sun shines (and even when it doesn’t), there’s always a beautiful spot for a dip in the water. The sun has been shining recently, which means swimming in Cornwall is looking extremely temping to even the most reluctant of bathers.
Of course, there’s always the beautiful blue sea, but there’s also some different options, from larger rock pools, natural tidal pools and some unexpected surprises.
So, whether you are on a holiday in Cornwall with young children, older children or on a couples’ holiday, there’s a place where you can dip in and enjoy the serenity of the sea. We have family-friendly swimming in Cornwall ideas, as well as some top wild swimming spots.
Newquay has 7 golden sand beaches to visit, and when the tide is out there’s a huge choice of large rock pools perfect for paddling, swimming and splashing. Cornwall is calling!
With a range of coastal swimming in Cornwall to choose from, water lovers will be in paradise. Read on to find out our favourite spots for wilder swimming in Cornwall.
Best for family swimming in Cornwall
Tolcarne is a privately owned beach, with fantastic facilities, and a firm family favourite beach in Newquay. With good accessibility via a slope, as well as steps, this beach has toilets, a shop, food, and a restaurant, The Colonial, right next to the beach.
When the tide is out, walk around to the right, and you will find a series of larger rock pools, which are perfect for taking a dip in. Little ones will love these clear, still and large pools and will enjoy playing in the sea water.
Porth Beach is also a great place for families, just outside of Newquay, this beach also has good facilities and has lots to explore. When the tide is out, walk under the bridge, which connects parts of Trevelgue Head, also known as Porth Island. Here there is a large natural pool to explore.
If you have older children, check the tide times and explore the Mermaid Pools, which are in-between Porth and Whipsiderry. However, do be careful not to venture too far on Whipsiderry as there can be cliff falls.
Best for tidal pools, and wild swimming in Cornwall
Cornwall has a few Tidal Pools, which will be loved by many looking for a salty swim.
Take a trip up the coast towards Padstow and head to Trevone to experience this large tidal pool, this is easy to find and popular for wild swimming in Cornwall.
Perranporth Beach is an expansive beach backed by dunes. Take a look at the famous Chapel Rock and discover this pool, great for a calmer swim, and good for families looking for safer coastal swimming in Cornwall.
Journey to Porthtowan, backed by high cliffs, down the north coast, and find this 20th century tidal pool tucked away behind the cliffs and boulders. This is a good one for wild, confident swimmers.
Finally, this one is just for a bit of history, as unfortunately it no longer holds sea water. However, if you want to see the remnants of this 1920s sea pool, located on Towan Beach, then it sits beneath the island rocks, with the house on it. Many hope that one day the pool will be restored and can be enjoyed once again.
For something really different…
A great option for outdoor swimming in Cornwall with some creature comforts added in! The UK’s largest seawater pool is of course in Cornwall! Head west to Penzance for a trip back in time to the glamorous art deco era, and take a dip in the iconic Jubilee Pool, which opened in 1935. Holding, approximately, 5 million litres of water, the main pool temperature is the same as the sea, and there’s a children’s pool too.
There is also the geothermal pool, which is the first of its kind in the UK. The natural salt water is heated to a 28-30 degrees via a geothermal well.
Last year a sauna was added, which is next to the geothermal pool.
A beautiful, relaxing day out, overlooking the south coast: everyone will love this unique pool.
Tempted to take a dip? Visit our special offers for late spring breaks as well as half-term offers.
