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Porthtowan Tidal Pool

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Swimming

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Philip Halling via Geograph.org.uk

Porthtowan Tidal Pool is a seawater bathing pool built into the rocks at the far end of the beach at Porthtowan, on the north coast of Cornwall. Large boulders were moved and a concrete dam built to hold the water back as the tide falls, giving a sheltered spot to swim away from the surf of the main...

10

Parking nearby

2

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

St Agnes Bakery​, Carn Brea Castle Restaurant​

Goldcroft House, Sky View Shepherd's Huts, Chy Glynn

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
Cornwall's dramatic north coast hides this secluded swimming spot along the beach perimeter. Walkers usually discover it by tracking the base of the cliffs during low water.

What type of place is Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
Porthtowan Tidal Pool is a man-made seawater rock pool on the northern Cornwall coast.

When is the best time to visit Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
Aiming for a couple of hours on either side of low tide ensures the ocean does not cover the wall. Summer days offer the warmest water, though spring and autumn provide much quieter swims.

What can you do at Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
Swimmers can enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear emerald water while cliffs block the heavy coastal winds. Floating inside lets you watch the local marine life while listening to the waves crash against the outer rocks.

How long should I spend at Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
Allowing roughly an hour gives you plenty of time to enjoy a peaceful swim and dry off on the sand. Serious walkers might want to extend their stay by combining the dip with a proper coastal trek nearby.

Where do I park at Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
Motorists can use ten spaces in the vicinity, offering a mix of eight day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
St Agnes Bakery and Carn Brea Castle Restaurant provide two choices for a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Porthtowan Tidal Pool?
Goldcroft House, Sky View Shepherd's Huts, and Chy Glynn offer three options for staying in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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