Hidden cove with turquoise waters and playful seals is the perfect escape
- UK Hidden Gems
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
One hidden cove in the south of England is the perfect pick for anyone wanting a peaceful and quiet beach day.
Tucked away on the Penwith Peninsula, between Morvah and Pendeen, lies one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets.
This beautiful, secluded spot can only be reached on foot, with steep rocky steps leading you past a little waterfall and down onto the sand. Part-owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, it’s a true “locals’ beach” that many visitors never discover.
For those seeking peace and calm away from busy seaside resorts, this sandy cove offers a wonderful escape. The turquoise waters look inviting, but swimmers are warned to be careful of hidden debris in the sea.
The area has strong undercurrents, and Portheras was once the site of the Alacrity shipwreck. The wreck was destroyed in the 1980s, but bits of sharp metal still occasionally wash up in the water and sand even today.
There are no lifeguards at Portheras, and mobile signal is unreliable, so anyone thinking of swimming is advised to make sure at least one person stays on the beach to keep watch.
Although it isn’t the safest spot for swimming, Portheras is a brilliant place for spotting wildlife. The cove is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and seals are often seen playing close to the shore.
Visitors have shared glowing reviews of the cove online. One wrote: “This is a really lovely beach, white sand, crystal-clear waters and the chance to see seals and other sea life from both the cliffs and the beach itself.”
They added: “It’s fantastic because it’s not that easy to reach. The steep rocky paths and long walk help keep the beach quiet!”
The same reviewer warned: “Once down, be careful. The currents are strong and the cliffs are badly eroded. I wouldn’t sit too close to them as they look quite unstable. With no toilets, cafés or touristy spots, it’s perfect for those wanting a proper adventure.”
Another beachgoer wrote: “This is one of my favourite places. It takes some effort to get there, but it’s worth it. The sand is wonderful, and we saw two curious seals swimming close to a family in wetsuits – an amazing sight.”
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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