Kynance Cove, on the west side of the Lizard peninsula, is one of the most photographed spots in Cornwall. Turquoise water, white sand and dark serpentine rock stacks make it feel more Mediterranean than British. Here's how to make the most of a visit.
Getting there and parking
Kynance sits a short drive from Lizard village, at the end of a toll-free lane signposted off the A3083. The National Trust runs the clifftop car park. It charges a daily fee, and National Trust members park free. In summer it fills by mid-morning, so arrive early or late in the day.
From the car park, a well-made but steep path drops down to the cove in about 15 minutes. The walk back up is the hard part, so wear proper shoes rather than flip-flops.
Check the tide first
This is the single most important tip. Much of the beach disappears at high tide, so plan your visit for the two or three hours either side of low tide. Check a tide table for the Lizard before you set off, and keep an eye on the water if you explore the caves or cross to the islands.
At low tide you can wander across the sand to Asparagus Island and look for the Devil's Bellows, a blowhole that roars when the sea is up. Don't get cut off: the tide comes in quickly here.
Swimming and safety
The water is beautifully clear, but it is open sea with currents around the rocks. Swim only in calm conditions, stay close to shore, and check local safety signs and whether lifeguards are on duty before you go in.
Food and facilities
A seasonal café sits just above the beach, handy for a pasty or an ice cream. There are toilets near the car park. In quieter months facilities can be limited, so bring water and snacks.
Walks from Kynance
The South West Coast Path runs right past the cove. Head south-east for about an hour along the clifftops to Lizard Point, mainland Britain's most southerly point, with its lighthouse and cafés. It's one of the finest short coastal walks in Cornwall.
When to go
Spring and early autumn are ideal: fewer crowds, softer light and wildflowers on the cliffs. On a summer weekend, aim for an early start. On a stormy day, the view from the clifftop is spectacular in its own right.
Good to know
- Check seasonal dog restrictions on the beach before you go.
- The path is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.
- Take your litter home and stay back from the cliff edges.
Photo: Kynance Cove by Unukorno, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.