Harlyn

Harlyn is a hamlet and sheltered bay on Cornwall’s north coast, 2 miles west of Padstow. Protected from prevailing south-westerly winds, the beach often stays calm when neighbouring beaches are rough - making it one of the more reliable family spots in the area. The bay has a surf school, a small beach shop, and a car park close to the water.

At low tide, the rock pools on either side of the bay are some of the best in the area for kids to explore. The waves here tend to be smaller and more forgiving than at Constantine Bay or Booby’s Bay next door, making it a good spot for beginner surfers and bodyboarders.

An Iron Age burial site was excavated in the sand dunes in the late 19th century, yielding over 130 skeletons along with pottery and personal ornaments, now mostly held by Truro Museum. The settlement at the top of the lane is small - a few houses and farm buildings - with no pub or shop in the hamlet itself.

Padstow’s harbour, restaurants, and services are a short drive east. Constantine Bay is about a mile north, and Trevone Bay about a mile south-east. The coast path in both directions offers dramatic cliff walks.

Where to Stay

Self-catering options in Harlyn include 6B The Mews, a 3-bedroom cottage 500 metres from the beach sleeping 6, with an enclosed courtyard, barbecue, and off-road parking. The property is the no-pet unit in a paired build, so suits families who don’t have dogs.