top of page

Portreath Rock Pool

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Swimming

Year round

Photo: David P Howard via Geograph.org.uk

Portreath Rock Pool is a man-made tidal bathing pool tucked in the rocks at the eastern end of the beach at Portreath, on the north coast of Cornwall, behind the harbour breakwater. It was cut and dammed into the rock, said to have been blasted out by local miners, to hold seawater as the tide falls...

10

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

Carn Brea Castle Restaurant​

Portreath Cottage, Tehidy Cabins, Sky View Shepherd's Huts

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Portreath Rock Pool?
Cornwall's rugged northern coastline conceals this historic spot tucked behind a massive stone wall. Swimmers walk right across the broad sand from the main village harbour to find the shelf.

What type of place is Portreath Rock Pool?
Portreath Rock Pool is a wild swimming spot in Cornwall on the north coast of England.

When is the best time to visit Portreath Rock Pool?
Low tide periods provide the only safe opportunity to access the water before the incoming waves submerge the stone structure. Summer months offer slightly warmer temperatures, though hardy locals take the plunge year round.

What can you do at Portreath Rock Pool?
Swimming in the calm saltwater offers a peaceful escape from the rough open sea rollers. Brave visitors also love exploring the tiny marine life like small crabs scurrying across the hand-carved floor.

How long should I spend at Portreath Rock Pool?
An hour usually allows plenty of time for a refreshing dip and a quick look around the rocks. Combining your swim with a stroll along the cliffs makes for a grand afternoon out.

Where do I park at Portreath Rock Pool?
A total of ten spaces await nearby, offering eight day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Portreath Rock Pool?
Carn Brea Castle Restaurant provides one option to secure a meal in the wider area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Portreath Rock Pool?
Portreath Cottage, Tehidy Cabins, and Sky View Shepherd's Huts offer three options for an overnight stay nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app