Kynance Cove has long been admired by locals and visitors alike, but its reputation soared in 2024 as it was named one of the world’s best beaches by the prestigious “The World’s 50 Best Beaches” list. Closer to home, leading travel guide Lonely Planet recently named Kynance Cove as one of the seven best beaches in Cornwall. Their experts highlighted the cove’s powdery white sands at low tide and the striking contrast with vibrant blue-green seas.
I was dubious that this coastal jewel lived up to its reputation, but one visit last summer proved me wrong. Situated just west of Britain’s southernmost point on the Lizard peninsula, Kynance Cove is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery that rivals world-class spots, including Italy’s Cala Mariolu and Turkey’s Kelebekler Vadisi Beach. Like many, I was struck by just how much more impressive the British cove is compared to any image or postcard.
The water glows with an intensity that seems almost impossible outside of the tropics. The cove’s secluded corners invite discovery, offering quieter spaces even on busier days.
It is also surprisingly accessible, unlike most of the best coves I’ve visited across the UK and Europe. The cove is at the end of an easily navigable network of coastal paths, just a brief stroll down from a National Trust car park.
But the magic of Kynance begins long before you reach the beach. The slightly steep but entirely safe descent (which takes about 10 minutes) offers uninterrupted views of the crystal-clear waters all the way down.
And unlike some parts of the Cornish coastline, such as Pedn Vounder Beach in Penzance, there’s no need to clamber over rocks to get to Kynance Cove.
Being a favourite amongst locals and global visitors, which includes many families, Kynance was bustling with activity when I visited in July 2024. Despite the car park being packed, arriving at low tide allowed us to find a less crowded spot on the beach.
We managed to avoid the throngs of people frolicking in the water and sunbathing by moving to a second sandbank, accessible only at low tide by wading through the crashing waves.
The water on this side is even clearer, and the towering rocks make the beach look even more spectacular. This section is situated away from the beach cafe, which you’ll encounter as soon as you hit the sand after navigating the coastal paths.
One of the best things about Kynance Cove is that, despite its popularity, there’s no need to rush. Heading down later in the day works best to avoid the masses setting up for a full day at the beach.
Kynance Cove offers several entry points into the water rather than one extensive shoreline, and if you wander around the most westerly part of the cove, you’ll discover a captivating mermaid pool.
Surrounded by towering rocks, the pool is a sight to behold, with brave visitors often scrambling up to jump in. There is a small inlet where the strong tide ebbs and flows, but the pool remains largely still, offering a treasure trove of marine life to discover beneath the surface.
On a sunny day, the cove catches the sun beautifully, providing ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts willing to navigate the rugged rock stacks that encircle the pool.
The headlands at Kynance Cove offer magnificent walks along the coastline. Numerous steps and pathways carved into the steep rockface make the highest points of the headland easily accessible.
Visitors who prefer grass to sand often find themselves perched atop a wide stretch of headland that separates the two main sections of the cove. This area offers plenty of other areas to explore for those seeking tranquility.
Whether you fancy a stroll along the Cornish shorelines or setting up a picnic spot atop Kynance Cove, you won’t have to wander far to find yourself away from the crowds.
This serene alternative to beach lounging offers an escape from road noise and people, allowing the subtle sounds of birds and insects to take centre stage.
To get to Kynance Cove, aim for the National Trust Car Park at the top, or find an alternative spot nearby and enjoy a longer walk down to this beautiful cove.