June 30, 2023
Destination: Devon & Cornwall
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Top 10 Hidden Swimming Spots in the South West
With so much coast, it was a really difficult job to narrow down the top 10 hidden swims in the South West. From the wilder North Coast through to the more gentle Southern Coast, there are so many swimming spots in the South West and the hidden gems often provoke much debate amongst the swimming community.
The vast majority of the outdoor swimmers we know are both great people and respectful of the environment in which they swim, leaving no trace of their visit but their happy splashing memories!
Helping people find new spots can be extremely rewarding and beneficial to their mental and physical well-being, as long as people are respectful to these special places. There are some locations where parking and litter are an issue and occasionally we bump into frustrated locals – and rightly so.
We recommend the wild swimming community avoid the busy times of the day to get their “fix” as nothing sets up the day better than a sunrise swim or finishes off the day better than with an evening beer/wine after an early evening dip! We encourage everyone to swim safely, respect the sea at all times and if in doubt – don’t do it!
1. Broadsands Beach
2. Sharrah Pool
3. Chagford Lido
4. Start Point
5. Cawsand
6. The Three L’s: Lantic Bay, Lanivet and Lansallos Beach
7. Goldiggins Quarry
Located on Bodmin Moor, this is maybe an unusual choice but the water’s clear and it’s big enough to get in a proper swim. Look out for Quarry cliff jumpers parading their acrobatics (we would not recommend this!), and always be cautious of the dangers of deep quarry swimming and be aware of the very cold nature of the water you are paddling in!
8. Colona Beach
This beautiful hidden inlet is accessible only on foot! For those fancying a walk and swim take the coastal walk from Goran Haven to Mevagissey. Portmellon Beach is also worth a look as is the wonderful King’s Arms in Mevagissey – with seafood brought in every day. Just ask for Kris!
9. The Lizard Coves: Cadgwith / Coverack / Mullion Cove
These three are all stunning beaches on the Lizard Peninsula with islands, blow holes and hidden beaches ripe for exploration. Each has its own flavour and is distinct and unique – we think they are truly unmissable! (Top tip: during the height of summer avoid the beautiful Kynance Cove like the plague – far, far too many people!)
10. Porthcothan
Why not head out through a sea arch on the right-hand side of the beach? This spot is only accessible at low tide and we know you’ll have the beach to yourselves. There is a huge rock for sunbathing, known as the “frying pan” – remember to take sunscreen!
Active England’s swimming holidays are the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, immersing guests in some of the most iconic swims and walking trails throughout Devon, Cornwall and the South Westt. Join one of our friendly groups, meet like-minded people and discover new and iconic swims – from the water up!
Our wild swimming holidays are for all types of swimmers with several different swims planned every day. On these tours, you will swim in deserted coves, inaccessible by car, walk to hidden beaches which look like the Caribbean, dip or dive in sea pools at low tide and visit some of the iconic swims which are fast becoming bucket list “must swims”.
And for more unique places to visit in England, peruse our Hidden Hundred. Stunning, off the beaten track sites well worth a visit.
