Location
United Kingdom
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Rock
Best season
June to September
About Porthmeor Cove
Porthmeor Cove is a small, remote cove on the rugged north coast of the Penwith peninsula, below the hamlet of Porthmeor between Zennor and Pendeen, near the headland of Gurnard's Head. It should not be confused with the busy Porthmeor town beach in St Ives. British Naturism lists it in its directory of naturist beaches, but the entry gives only its position near Porthmeor and no description, so we have little detail about naturist use here. Coves on this stretch are rocky and boulder-strewn, reached by steep paths off the South West Coast Path, with no facilities. Visit at low tide, keep clear of the cliffs, and expect very few people.
Getting there
Porthmeor hamlet lies on the B3306 coast road between St Ives and St Just. Roadside parking is very limited; the cove is reached on foot by the path down from the hamlet to the South West Coast Path. The final descent is steep and rough, unsuitable for anyone with limited mobility. Seasonal buses run along the B3306.
Amenities
Legal context
There is no designation scheme for nude beaches in England and Wales and nudity in itself is not an offence; the Sexual Offences Act 2003 exposure offence requires intent to cause alarm or distress. Porthmeor Cove has no official naturist status, and no reports of conflicts or enforcement were found (2026).
Naturism at Porthmeor Cove sits under United Kingdom's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: United Kingdom public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 50.1812, -5.6072
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 this the Porthmeor beach in St Ives?
No. This is the small cove below Porthmeor hamlet near Gurnard's Head, between Zennor and Pendeen.
Is it a recognised nude beach?
British Naturism lists it in its beach directory, but gives no further details; use is informal.
Are there facilities?
No. Bring everything you need.
Sources
- British Naturism - Porthmeor Official
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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