Location
United Kingdom
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
June to September
About Fisherman's cove
Fisherman's Cove, more often called Fishing Cove, is a small north-facing cove on the north Cornwall coast between Navax Point (east of Godrevy Point) and the Reskajeage cliffs, across St Ives Bay from St Ives. It is the whole beach that naturists use rather than a section of a larger one: walkers' and naturist guides have described it as a nude beach for decades, and a July 2026 report mentions a sign at the top of the path marking it as such. The cove has clean pale sand and clear water, with more sand exposed at low tide. Because it faces north under high cliffs, it loses the sun from late morning, which makes it cool in spring and autumn. Grey seals are frequently seen in the water. A steep, narrow, stepped path with fixed ropes on the steepest sections leads down from the coast path; it is slippery after rain and has been repaired by volunteers after a landslip. Usually only a handful of couples or families are on the sand, a mix of nude and clothed visitors. Strong currents develop in windy weather, and the tide washes in litter at times.
Getting there
From Hayle take the B3301 towards Portreath. Either park at the National Trust Godrevy car park (charge for non-members) and walk about 2 km east around the headland on the South West Coast Path, or continue about 1.4 km further along the B3301 to a small free National Trust lay-by car park a couple of hundred metres from the cove (satnav TR27 5EG, OS SW596429). From the coast path, a steep stepped path with ropes descends to the sand. Not suitable for wheelchairs or anyone unsteady on their feet.
What visitors say
Visitors describe Fishing Cove as a quiet hidden gem with fine sand and clear water, typically shared by only a few nude and clothed groups. The steep, roped descent is the main talking point: manageable with care, including for children, but treacherous when wet. People warn that cliff shade arrives early in the day, that the water can be rough in wind, and that litter sometimes washes in. Seal sightings are a highlight. Some older accounts suggest naturist numbers fell after the cove gained a reputation as a nude beach, while recent reports say it is still used.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
There is no official naturist designation for this cove; nude use is a long-standing local custom. There is no designation scheme for nude beaches in England and Wales; simple nudity is not an offence, and the Sexual Offences Act 2003 exposure offence requires intent to cause alarm or distress.
Naturism at Fisherman's cove sits under United Kingdom's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United Kingdom public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 50.2372, -5.3722
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Fishing Cove a nudist beach?
It is a long-standing informal naturist cove with no official designation. Nude and clothed visitors share it.
How do I get down to the beach?
By a steep, narrow, stepped path from the coast path, with ropes on the steepest parts. Take care after rain.
Where do I park?
At the National Trust Godrevy car park (2 km walk) or the small free National Trust car park on the B3301, a few hundred metres from the cove.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer mornings around low tide, since the cliffs shade the north-facing sand from late morning.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
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