Nanjizal Beach
Remote cove near Land's End with the 'Song of the Sea' rock arch, reached on foot along the Coast Path. No road access, no facilities.
At a Glance
Beach Type
sandy
Dogs
Yes - year-round
Lifeguard
No
Parking
Nearby
Access
Difficult (cliff path)
Swimming
Swim with caution
Activities
Stay near Nanjizal Beach
Closest cottage just 800m away
Situated on Cornwall’s south-west edge, close to Land’s End, Nanjizal Beach (also known as Mill Bay) is a remote and undeveloped cove reachable only on foot via the South West Coast Path. It is known for its rock formations, pebbles and sand, and for the “Song of the Sea,” a natural rock arch that lets the sea flow through. Photographers come for the arch, which is at its best in late-afternoon light and at high tide, when sunlight can pour through it. The beach is reached down a set of steep steps and is much reduced at high tide.
Swimming and snorkelling are possible in calm, clear water, and the tidal pools and rocky outcrops are good for rock pooling. There are no lifeguards, so take care. The South West Coast Path passes above Nanjizal, and parts of the path from Land’s End are narrow and close to a drop.
Nanjizal Beach can only be reached on foot, and the beach is usually uncrowded. It has no amenities, so bring food, water and anything else you need. The closest parking and facilities are at Land’s End and Sennen Cove, which have shops and cafes, and the Land’s End car park is paid while a small amount of free roadside parking exists closer to Sennen.
Make a day of it
Things to do near Nanjizal Beach
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
- Can I take my dog to Nanjizal Beach?
- Yes, dogs are allowed at Nanjizal Beach all year. It is a long walk on a cliff path, so bring water for them.
- Is Nanjizal Beach lifeguarded?
- No, Nanjizal Beach has no lifeguard cover. It is remote and reached by steep steps, so take care and check tide times, as the beach is much reduced at high tide.
- Is there parking at Nanjizal Beach?
- There is no car park at Nanjizal Beach. Most visitors walk in along the Coast Path from Land's End or Sennen, where parking is available.
- Is Nanjizal Beach good for swimming?
- Swimming is possible in calm conditions, but there are no lifeguards and the cove is remote, so take care and do not swim alone.
- What facilities are at Nanjizal Beach?
- Nanjizal Beach has no facilities - no toilets, cafe or shop. Bring food and water with you.
- Is Nanjizal Beach good for rock pooling?
- Yes, Nanjizal 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 Nanjizal Beach?
- Nanjizal Beach is on the west coast of Cornwall, near Penzance.
- How do I get to Nanjizal Beach?
- Set your sat nav for Penzance and follow local signs from there. The nearest car park is a short walk from the sand. Cornwall beach car parks fill early in peak season, so aim to arrive before mid-morning in summer.
- Where can I stay near Nanjizal Beach?
- There are several holiday properties near Nanjizal Beach, with the closest just 800 metres away. Prices start from £957 per week.
