Charlestown Beach
Coarse sand beach beside Georgian harbour, famous as the Poldark filming location. Rock pools at low tide and tall ships in the historic harbour.
At a Glance
Beach Type
mixed
Dogs
Not permitted
Lifeguard
No
Parking
Available
Access
Moderate (steps/path)
Swimming
Generally safe
Activities
Charlestown Beach, a quaint and scenic location noted for its distinctive fusion of natural beauty and nautical heritage, is situated in the ancient village of Charlestown on Cornwall’s south coast. The beach itself offers a rocky and pristine shoreline because it is made up of a mixture of coarse sand and rocks. Swimming, canoeing, and discovering marine life in the tidal pools exposed at low tide are all made possible by the crystal-clear, blue waters. The beach is a great place for a relaxing day by the sea, even though it may not be as sandy as some other beaches in Cornwall because of its natural attractiveness and serene atmosphere.
The beach’s closeness to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic Charlestown Harbor, is one of its most notable features. In addition to being a popular filming setting for period dramas like the TV series “Poldark,” the harbor is well-known for its restored Georgian architecture. Visitors can explore the harbor and its classic tall ships, which offer a distinctive and historical touch to the beach experience.
Charlestown Beach has few facilities, which helps to maintain its serene and natural atmosphere. However, Charlestown, a nearby community, has all the conveniences one could want for a nice visit, including restaurants, stores, pubs, and cafes. Charlestown is home to the South West Coast Path, which links the beach to neighbouring attractions like the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, with wide coastal views along the route.
Things to Do Near Charlestown Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I take my dog to Charlestown Beach?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Charlestown Beach.
- Is Charlestown Beach lifeguarded?
- No, Charlestown Beach does not have RNLI lifeguard cover. Take extra care when swimming and check tide times before your visit.
- Is there parking at Charlestown Beach?
- Yes, there is parking at or near Charlestown Beach. Arrive early in peak season as spaces fill quickly.
- Is Charlestown Beach good for swimming?
- Charlestown Beach is a good beach for swimming. There are no lifeguards, so take care and check conditions before entering the water.
- Is Charlestown Beach good for rock pooling?
- Yes, Charlestown Beach has rock pools to explore at low tide. The best time is on a falling tide about an hour after high water. Wear shoes with grip and watch out for incoming tides.
- Where is Charlestown Beach?
- Charlestown Beach is on the east coast of Cornwall, near St Austell. The postcode for sat nav is the nearest available - coordinates are 50.3312, -4.7557.
- Where is Charlestown Beach?
- Charlestown Beach is a beach near St Austell on the coast of Cornwall, England. The coordinates are 50.3312, -4.7557.
- How do I get to Charlestown Beach?
- Charlestown Beach is located near St Austell. Check the map above for directions. Most Cornwall beaches have limited parking, so arriving early in peak season is recommended.
- Where can I stay near Charlestown Beach?
- There are several holiday properties near Charlestown Beach, with the closest just 200 metres away. Prices start from £4668 per week.
