Distance
20
Difficulty
Moderate · coastal
Type
Coastal
Dogs
Welcome · livestock & cliff edges
About South West Coast Path — stage 12
Coast Path stage of about 20 km along the Cornwall coast (Open Government Licence route data).
Along the way there are 42 places worth knowing about — somewhere to eat, things to see, and family stops close to the route. Scroll down for the map and the full list.
As with any Cornish coast path, check the tide times and weather before you set out, keep back from cliff edges, and wear footwear with a decent grip.
Walk map & stop-offs
Orange lines are the trails. Coloured pins are places near the walk — tap any pin (or the buttons below) for cafés, sights, family stops and more.
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.
Eat & drink
1.2 km
Eat
Sunset Surf Cafe
Located right on the dunes at Gwithian, Sunset Surf Cafe offers laid-back vibes and fantastic food…
1.4 km
Eat
The Terrace Kitchen & Bar (Gwithian)
Offering modern British cuisine with a focus on fresh, local produce, The Terrace provides a sophisticated…
1.4 km
Eat
The Terrace at The NCI
Perched above the Hayle Estuary, this cafe offers delightful refreshments and light bites with panoramic views,…
1.6 km
Eat
The Red River Inn
A charming gastropub in Gwithian, The Red River Inn is renowned for its delicious food and…
1.6 km
Eat
The Cambeak
Perched above Gwithian with breathtaking views, The Cambeak offers a delightful dining experience. Enjoy delicious food…
1.7 km
Eat
Loggans Moor Brewers Fayre
A family-friendly restaurant offering a diverse menu of classic pub grub and hearty meals, perfect for…
See & do
0.2 km
See
Hayle Sands
Explore the expansive and family-friendly Hayle Sands, offering vast open spaces for play and scenic walks…
0.8 km
See
Black Rock Beach
Renowned for its impressive waves and dramatic rocky outcrops, this beach is a paradise for experienced…
1.1 km
See
St Ives Bay Line (Hayle to St Ives Train Line)
Experience breathtaking coastal scenery on a charming heritage railway line. The views from this short journey…
1.3 km
See
Upton Towans
A quieter section of the stunning St Ives Bay, offering beautiful sandy beaches and dunes perfect…
1.3 km
See
Hayle Beach
Discover the expansive golden sands of Hayle Beach, a fantastic family activity near Copperhouse, perfect for…
1.3 km
See
Hell's Mouth Beach (Hell Bay)
Wild and dramatic surf beach with powerful waves and stunning sea stacks, perfect for experienced surfers…
Family & play
2.6 km
Family
Ocean Looms Surf School
Learn to surf or improve your skills with qualified instructors on Hayle’s fantastic beaches. Equipment hire…
3.1 km
Family
West Cornwall Golf Club
Scenic clifftop golf course offering breathtaking views of St Ives Bay. A challenging yet rewarding round…
3.2 km
Family
Connor Downs Golf Club
Enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful Cornish countryside. A well-maintained course suitable for golfers of…
3.4 km
Family
St Ives Surf School
Experience the thrill of surfing on Cornwall's beautiful coastline. Offering lessons for all ages and abilities,…
3.5 km
Family
The West Cornwall Adventurer
Embark on coastal adventures and sea safaris from St Ives. Explore hidden coves, spot marine wildlife,…
3.7 km
Family
St Ives Surf School
Catch a wave with expert tuition at this highly-rated surf school near Carbis Bay. Lessons cater…
Wildlife & nature
2 km
Wildlife
RSPB Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve
A haven for birdlife, offering peaceful walks along marked trails. Spot waders, seabirds, and potentially seals…
2 km
Wildlife
Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve
Discover rich birdlife and stunning saltmarsh habitats on this vital nature reserve. A tranquil escape for…
2.4 km
Wildlife
Steeple Woodland Nature Reserve
A peaceful woodland and marshland sanctuary teeming with wildlife. Explore tranquil paths and observe diverse birdlife…
2.6 km
Wildlife
Lelant Saltings Nature Reserve
Explore diverse wetland habitats and enjoy birdwatching opportunities on this serene nature reserve, easily accessible from…
3 km
Wildlife
North Cliffs Nature Reserve
Dramatic cliffs offering breathtaking ocean views and coastal paths. Ideal for birdwatching, photography, and gentle strolls…
3.2 km
Wildlife
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Witness the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of seals. An inspiring and educational family day out with…
Beaches nearby
0.3 km
Beaches
Upton Towans
Connecting to Hayle Towans, this equally impressive stretch of sandy coastline offers dramatic dunes and uninterrupted…
Shops & markets
0.9 km
Shop
Phil's Cornwall
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and artwork inspired by the stunning Cornish coast, right near Gwithian Towans.…
1.4 km
Shop
The Towans Surf Shop
Your go-to for all things surf. Offering quality surf gear, lessons, and board hire. Friendly local…
1.6 km
Shop
Gwithian Farm Shop
A delightful farm shop just a short drive from Old Town St Ives, offering delicious local…
2 km
Shop
Phillack Market
A vibrant local hub offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and community spirit right on the doorstep…
2.4 km
Shop
Copper Creek Pottery
Discover beautifully crafted, unique pottery made with passion by local artisans. From decorative pieces to functional…
2.6 km
Shop
The Salted Fish
A delightful independent shop offering a curated selection of local produce, artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet…
Places to stay
0.8 km
Stay
Higher Roskear Farm B&B
A delightful Bed & Breakfast experience near Bosulval, offering comfortable rooms and a warm Cornish welcome.…
1.5 km
Stay
The Old Bakery
Nestled in the heart of Gwithian, this charming former bakery offers a unique and cozy retreat.…
1.6 km
Stay
Trevow Village Cottages
Discover charming self-catering cottages nestled near Bosulval, offering a peaceful Cornish escape. Perfect for families and…
1.7 km
Stay
Gwithian Farm Campsite
Nestled inland from the coast, this friendly campsite near Bosulval offers spacious pitches and a peaceful…
1.8 km
Stay
Godrevy Lighthouse Cottages
Wake up to iconic lighthouse views at these unique self-catering cottages in Gwithian. Ideal for nature…
2.1 km
Stay
The Old Forge
Experience rustic charm at this delightful bolthole, nestled in a peaceful hamlet near Bolenowe. Perfect for…
Know before you go
🧭 Getting there
The walk starts near Hayle. Use the directions button above to route to the trailhead.
🅿️ Parking
Check locally for the nearest car park — many Cornish trailheads have limited roadside parking.
🐕 Dogs
Welcome · livestock & cliff edges
🌊 Safety
Coastal sections can be exposed — check tide times and the forecast, keep back from cliff edges, and wear grippy footwear.
