The South West Coast Path is a breath-taking long-distance trail that hugs the stunning coastline of England’s southwest region. Among the most scenic stretches is the route from Carlyon Bay to Pentewan in Cornwall, which offers a mix of dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and charming seaside villages.
Summer had arrived in Cornwall and just in time for our family weekend stay in Carlyon Bay Temperatures were hitting the 30-degree mark and a coastal walk was already planned, we hadn’t decided on the finer details although the destination was Pentewan via the South West coastal path.
Explore with me this captivating walk, provide tips for making the most of your journey, and recommend places to stay along the way.
Walk Overview
The stretch between Carlyon Bay and Pentewan covers just over 7 miles (12 km), making it an ideal day hike for walkers looking to explore Cornwall’s dramatic coastal scenery. The terrain is relatively easy with well-defined paths, though some sections involve ascents and descents typical of coastal walking.
The route showcases a variety of landscapes, from the golden sands of Carlyon Bay to the lush countryside and ancient woodlands near Pentewan. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of St Austell Bay and the wider Cornish coast.
Walk Route Info
Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km)
Total Ascent: 1838 ft (560 m)
Difficulty: Medium
Time: 3.5 hours
Carlyon Bay
We started our walking journey at Carlyon Bay, a stretch of sandy beach framed by cliffs and blue waters. The bay is popular with families and beach-goers, but it’s also a great spot to enjoy some peace and serenity before your walk begins. There’s a café nearby to grab refreshments before setting off on your hike.
Our refillable water bottles were packed and off we strolled to the beach, because why not start with a paddle in the sea. What a lovely beach Carlyon Bay has, and with it being privately owned, it has its own café and bar on the beach too. There’s a hire station on the beach for jet skis and wetsuits too, so if a hike isn’t your thing, go for a ride and search out those beach coves.
As we arrived on the beach, a yoga class was in full swing and I can’t think of a more pleasant place for it, how relaxing must that be.
Walking barefoot along the beach was for me, a peaceful start to our adventure, the water, so clear and blue and with the backdrop of rocky outcrops and cliffs, I could have easily stayed and chilled, but no, onwards. Back on track and up onto the South West coastal path.
Charlestown Harbour
A short walk from Carlyon Bay takes you to Charlestown, a historic harbour village and UNESCO World Heritage site. Famous for its perfectly preserved Georgian harbor, Charlestown has been used as a filming location for period dramas like Poldark.
Take time to explore the Shipwreck Museum or enjoy a meal at one of the local pubs before continuing your journey. Charlestown is a stunning historical location full of charm and I’ve written a post about it if you choose to find out more about its history in more detail.
Porthpean Beach
Further along the coast, you’ll find Porthpean Beach, a smaller, quieter spot ideal for a short rest or a swim. The beach is sheltered by cliffs, making it a great place to relax on a sunny day.
There is a refreshments kiosk and toilets, and I add this because after this point you won’t find any toilets or refreshments for miles. A picturesque little beach and on such a hot, sunny day as we had on our coastal walk, it was indeed a popular spot.
Yes, you might have noticed a trend, the coastal path went up once more, it continues this way throughout the walk. Up the many steps to the top of a cliff until the views stopped us in our tracks, the seascapes and landscapes here are breathtaking from the top of each prominence.
Duporth and Black Head
The coastal path continues past Duporth, offering stunning clifftop views. Black Head, an imposing headland, provides a great opportunity for some wildlife spotting and birdwatching. From here, the views over St Austell Bay are particularly stunning, with rugged cliffs plunging into the sea.
I found it a place to judge how far we had travelled as I looked back to see the coves of each beach or town we had already passed by as we looked across the bay. Also looking behind us, the steps we had climbed and ahead of us the decent down into the next valley, not all of which had a beach or any means of reaching a road.
That is why I mention the need to bring with you a good supply of water, I think of these things when hiking in the hills, but a coastal walk needs a similar preparation, since access to a water re-fill is miles in-between.
St Austell Bay has a very contoured shape, and as the coastal path follows this erratic pattern the seascape changes dramatically at each view point. After our reflective rest stop up a top of the cliffs, we descended to Penewan, (Cornish Bentewyn.) T
The St Austell river meets the sea here so it’s no wonder the name, Bentewyn means foot of the radiant stream, how lovely.
Pentewan
As you approach the end of the route, you’ll arrive at Pentewan, a quaint village known for its expansive beach and charming atmosphere.
The beach is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfing and kayaking. The village itself is small but delightful, with a couple of welcoming pubs and restaurants.
Pentewan is a former port and the history of this can still be seen around and about, though it is mainly a seaside destination now as can be seen along the beach front, with the plentiful holiday chalets and vibrant beach, filled with summer holidaymakers.
For us, our South West coastal walk was at an end and the Ship Inn was a welcome sight, we stopped for a hearty lunch and a very thirst quenching cold drink which I felt we had earned over the miles of our walk and all three of us thoroughly enjoyed.
Tips for Walking the South West Coast Path in Cornwall
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain on the South West Coast Path can vary significantly, with sections of uneven ground, steep ascents, and muddy patches, especially after rain. Good hiking shoes or boots are essential to ensure grip and support throughout the walk.
Pack Layers and Sun Protection
Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to wear layers. You might experience sunshine, wind, and rain all in one day. Also, don’t forget sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen—when the sun does shine, it can be strong!
Carry Snacks and Water
Although there are some villages along the way, sections of the walk are quite remote, with no shops or cafes. Pack plenty of water and some energy-boosting snacks for the trail. Keeping hydrated and having something nutritious while walking is one of my biggest tips.
Watch the Tides
Some of the coastal paths pass close to beaches or coves where tides can impact accessibility. Be sure to check tide times before setting off and avoid getting stranded.
There are some spectacular secluded coves on the coast, but most of which can only be reached by the sea, kayaking or similar mode of exploration would be perfect to discover these little gems, the sea was calm on that day and would be good conditions for checking out those secret coves with aqua marine clear waters.
Start Early
To enjoy the most peaceful experience, especially during summer, start your hike early. The coastal path can get busy later in the day, particularly around popular spots like Charlestown.
Places to Stay Along the Route
Carlyon Bay Hotel (Carlyon Bay)
For those starting their walk from Carlyon Bay, the Carlyon Bay Hotel offers luxury accommodation with stunning sea views. The hotel features a spa, golf course, and fine dining options, making it an ideal place to unwind before or after your coastal walk.
Pier House Hotel (Charlestown)
Located right on Charlestown’s harbor, the Pier House Hotel is a charming place to stay. This historic inn offers cozy rooms, excellent seafood, and picturesque views of the harbor.
The Rising Sun Inn (Portmellon, near Pentewan)
Just a short distance from Pentewan, The Rising Sun Inn is a traditional Cornish pub with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a great base to explore more of Cornwall’s coastline.
Pentewan Sands Holiday Park (Pentewan)
For those who prefer camping or caravan stays, Pentewan Sands Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation options. The park is located right on the beach and has excellent facilities, including a pool, restaurants, and entertainment.
Conclusion
The walk from Carlyon Bay to Pentewan on the South West Coast Path offers some of the best of Cornwall’s coastal beauty, from the historic charm of Charlestown to the secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs along the way. With a little preparation and the right gear, this trail promises an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves walking and exploring Cornwall’s unique landscapes.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking a scenic day out, this section of the South West Coast Path has something to offer everyone. And with plenty of great places to stay, you can turn your coastal adventure into a memorable Cornish getaway.
