Distance
20
Difficulty
Moderate · coastal
Type
Coastal
Dogs
Welcome · livestock & cliff edges
About South West Coast Path — stage 17
Coast Path stage of about 20 km along the Cornwall coast (Open Government Licence route data).
Along the way there are 38 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
0.6 km
Eat
The Mussel Shoal
A charming, open-air seafood shack right on Porthleven harbour, specializing in incredibly fresh mussels prepared in…
0.6 km
Eat
Kota Kai
The vibrant, relaxed sister restaurant to Kota, offering a more casual dining experience with equally delicious…
0.6 km
Eat
Kota Kai Bar & Kitchen
The vibrant, more relaxed sister restaurant to Kota, offering casual dining with an Asian twist, a…
0.6 km
Eat
The Ship Inn
A quintessential Cornish pub steeped in history, offering a warm welcome, real ales, and classic pub…
0.6 km
Eat
The Ship Inn Porthleven
A truly traditional Cornish pub right on the harbour, offering hearty pub classics, fresh fish, and…
0.7 km
Eat
Kota Restaurant
Experience award-winning cuisine at this celebrated Porthleven restaurant, renowned for its exquisite fusion of Cornish ingredients…
See & do
0.2 km
See
Marconi Centre at Poldhu
Immerse yourself in the history of wireless communication at the Marconi Centre, right here at Poldhu,…
0.7 km
See
Porthleven Beach
A charming sandy beach within a working fishing harbour. Enjoy gentle waves suitable for families, explore…
0.7 km
See
The Boathouse (Porthleven)
Enjoy delicious seafood and stunning harbour views from this popular restaurant. A fantastic spot for a…
0.8 km
See
Tehidy Woods
Explore ancient woodlands, tranquil lakes, and winding paths in this stunning nature reserve near Townshend. Perfect…
0.8 km
See
Kynance Cove National Trust
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kynance Cove, famed for its turquoise waters, white sands, and dramatic…
0.8 km
See
Loe Beach (near Porthleven)
A sheltered, sandy beach perfect for families and watersports. Gentle waves make it ideal for swimming,…
Family & play
1.9 km
Family
Lizard Adventure (Activity provider based near Helston)
Offering thrilling coasteering, kayaking, and climbing adventures along the dramatic Cornish coastline. For the adrenaline seeker…
2.5 km
Family
Flambards Theme Park
A family-friendly theme park offering thrilling rides, nostalgic exhibitions, and seasonal entertainment. Perfect for all ages…
2.6 km
Family
Flambards Theme Park (Limited to specific attractions within 2 miles)
While the main park is just outside, some peripheral activities or viewing areas may fall within…
Wildlife & nature
1.7 km
Wildlife
Goonhilly Downs Nature Reserve (Coastal Access Points)
While inland, the surrounding coastal paths accessed from Goonhilly Downs offer incredible sea vistas and wild…
1.9 km
Wildlife
Helston Downs Nature Reserve
A peaceful expanse of heathland and grassland offering tranquil walks and opportunities for wildlife spotting. A…
2.4 km
Wildlife
Cudden Point Nature Reserve
Explore the dramatic cliffs and ancient fortifications of Cudden Point, offering breathtaking sea views and a…
3.4 km
Wildlife
Loe Pool Nature Reserve (South West Coast Path Access)
Experience the natural beauty surrounding Loe Pool. Walk sections of the South West Coast Path for…
4.3 km
Wildlife
National Trust - Lizard National Nature Reserve
Immerse yourself in the unique coastal flora and fauna of the Lizard Peninsula, just a stone's…
Beaches nearby
Shops & markets
0.6 km
Shop
Porthleven Food Market
A vibrant hub for local Cornish produce and artisan crafts, Porthleven Food Market offers a true…
0.7 km
Shop
Kynance Cove Gift Shop
Discover unique Cornish gifts and souvenirs nestled beside the iconic Kynance Cove, a short stroll from…
0.7 km
Shop
The Cornish Store
Discover authentic Cornish crafts and gifts at this charming independent shop in Porthleven, a stone's throw…
1.1 km
Shop
The Old Forge
Discover unique Cornish crafts and art at The Old Forge, a charming artisan workshop and gallery…
1.1 km
Shop
The Lizard Gift Shop
Discover unique Cornish gifts and souvenirs near Gweek. From handmade crafts to local produce, find treasures…
1.2 km
Shop
Lizard Point Ice Cream Parlour (Retail Element)
While famous for ice cream, this spot near Lizard Point (close to Church Cove) often features…
Places to stay
0.2 km
Stay
Polpeor Farm
Experience rural tranquillity and stunning sea views near Ruan Minor. This working farm offers a peaceful…
0.7 km
Stay
Porthleven Harbour Inn
A fantastic harbourside location with rooms offering sea views and a lively pub atmosphere, serving delicious…
0.7 km
Stay
Old Success Inn
A historic inn nestled in Porthleven, offering comfortable rooms and delicious pub fare. Steps from the…
0.7 km
Stay
Bay Hotel Porthleven
Chic boutique hotel with contemporary style and breathtaking sea views over Porthleven’s dramatic coastline. Enjoy a…
0.8 km
Stay
The Old Forge
A historic, beautifully restored former forge offering a unique and romantic retreat. Nestled in a tranquil…
0.9 km
Stay
The Goundry
A charming guesthouse offering a warm welcome and comfortable accommodation within easy reach of Helston’s amenities…
Know before you go
🧭 Getting there
The walk starts near Helston. 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.
