Porthcurno & Minack coast, Cornwall
🛰️ Aerial view

Coastal walk

Porthcurno & Minack coast

St Just, Cornwall

Distance 4–6 km return
Difficulty Moderate · steep steps
Type Coastal
Dogs Seasonal beach rules · cliffs

Where to stay near St Just ↗

About Porthcurno & Minack coast

The Porthcurno & Minack coast walk in St Just follows a stretch of granite cliffs that feels both wild and welcoming. You start near Porthcurno Beach and can climb towards the Minack Theatre. Then the path continues towards Logan Rock. Because the route is short, you can walk it in an afternoon and still leave time to sit by the sea. Also, the ground underfoot is uneven in places, so sturdy shoes help. The views change with every turn, from sheltered sand to open water. Nearby, you hear the tide moving against the rocks. This walk suits visitors who want a clear sense of the Cornish coast without a long trek.

What you see along the route

The path takes you past Porthcurno Beach, a curved stretch of sand set below the cliffs. From there, the climb up towards the Minack Theatre gives you a different angle on the bay. The theatre sits into the rock face, and from the coast path you can see its terraces above the sea. Then, as you head towards Logan Rock, the cliffs become more exposed. The granite here is a defining feature of the walk. You will notice the rough texture of the stone under your feet and the way the rocks drop sharply to the water. Because the route is coastal, the wind can be strong even on a mild day. Also, the light changes quickly, so the same stretch of path can look different within an hour.

How the walk fits into a day nearby

You can combine the Porthcurno & Minack coast walk with a morning on Porthcurno Beach or an afternoon visit to the Minack Theatre. The path connects these places in a simple loop for many visitors. Then, from Logan Rock, you can turn back or pause to watch the sea. Because St Just is close, you can also reach the walk without a long drive. The area around the cliffs feels quiet, even when the beach is busy. Also, the walk works well as a short introduction to this part of Cornwall. You do not need to be an experienced walker to enjoy it, but you should take care near the edge. The coast here rewards anyone who takes their time and looks out to sea.

Explore St Just, or discover Cornish towns and villages.

Dogs: Seasonal beach rules · cliffs.

Official trail info ↗

Walk map & stop-offs

Stops along the way

Real places near this walk, pulled from the Cornish.co.uk directory. Somewhere to eat, things to see, family days out, wildlife and beaches within easy reach.

Know before you go

🧭 Getting there

The walk starts near St Just. Use the directions button above to route to the trailhead.

🅿️ Parking

Check locally for the nearest car park, as many Cornish trailheads have limited roadside parking.

🐕 Dogs

Seasonal beach rules · cliffs

🌊 Safety

Coastal sections can be exposed. Check tide times and the forecast, keep back from cliff edges, and wear grippy footwear.