Top 6 Cornish Tidal Pools
Tidal pools are the perfect spot to unwind between surf sessions so, whether you’re looking to cool off, explore, or just take a break from the waves, these Cornish tidal pools are definitely worth a visit.
@louisedownphotography
1. Nanjizal
Also known as ‘The Song of the Sea Cave’, located near Land’s End , access to the cave is via a steep path or a 30-minute walk from Land’s End or Porthgwarra. Perfect for an early summer adventure to the coast. The water is known for being crystal clear and is surprisingly deep. At low tide you might be lucky enough to experience the two pools that are divided by a rocky reef, Big and Little Muzzan. We’d steer clear of high summer as this can be a really popular spot.
@znaughalty
2. Perranporth
This sea pool is situated in the middle of the beach carved out of the famous rock known as ‘Chapel Rock’ and at low tide is really easy to access, being a short stroll across the beach towards the ocean. A larger pool but not super deep and is popular with cold-water dippers and local communities all year round. This one is usually completely submerged at high tide so before you plan to visit make sure you check that you can access. Plenty of places post swim for an ice cream or a warming hot chocolate.
@candidcornwall
3. Portreath
Portreath Sea Pool, located at the eastern end of Portreath Beach, near the harbour wall and is a bit of hidden gem for salt water swimmers. Created in the 1800s, some say local miners used dynamite to carve it out, while others believe Lady Frances Bassett had it made for personal use. The pool is best accessible at low tide. Don’t forget to check the tide times before you go! The area is also dog-friendly, and after a swim there’s spots nearby for a bite to eat. This pool is known to be a little more shallow than other more famous sea pools.
@kerrywhee
4. Polperro
This tidal pool is a peaceful and picturesque spot, set in a natural harbour surrounded by stunning cliffs. The pool is a bit of a throwback to the Victorian era. It’s a shallow, sheltered space that fills with fresh sea water at high tide. Located near the village’s famous narrow streets and quaint cottages adds to the charm, making it a lovely place to visit. Just be mindful of the tides, as it’s best enjoyed at low tide when the pool is fully exposed. After your swim, grab a bite in one of the cozy local pubs nearby.
@britishtraveljournal
5. Trevone
Tucked away near Padstow, this natural rock pool is set below the coast path with horizon views. You can dive into the clear, cool water, soak up the sun on the rocky edges, and watch little fish darting about. It’s got the perfect blend of coastal beauty and safe swimming, making it a fave for people who wan’t an easy swim. It’s a pretty deep pool with a short scramble across the rocks but they’re mostly smooth and easy to navigate.
@breaksincornwall
6. Porthtowan
Set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean and located in the village of Porthtowan, on Cornwall’s north coast, the pool sits within the boundaries of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Cornish Mining Landscape, reflecting the region’s rich industrial past. The pool is naturally filled with seawater and is popular for its clean, clear water and safe swimming conditions. With the surf in the distance and coastal views surrounding it it’s a pretty epic spot for a swim.
SurfGirl Recommends Early Summer Edit
This year, we wanted to do things a little differently. We wanted to show you and not just tell you, why we love the gear we recommend. So we headed out into our backyard, the rugged, wild coast of Cornwall, and let nature do its thing.
No chasing perfection, just those dreamy early summer days where the waves are playful, the salt clings to your skin, and every golden hour sparks a little more excitement for the season ahead.
Our shoot was fuelled by nostalgia, you know, the kind that smells like sunscreen, feels like soft sand underfoot, and sounds like laughter carried on sea breeze. We used every product the way it’s meant to be used: out in the elements, in the real world. From surf checks to post-swim silliness, these are the pieces we loved, lived in, and will keep reaching for all summer long.
This edit isn’t just about what looks good, it’s about what feels good, works hard, and adds joy to those everyday adventures. Let it inspire you to get outside, move with nature’s rhythm, and soak up every salty second.
Now for the good stuff…
Dryrobe®, Lite
This lightweight changing robe is weatherproof, warm, and packs into a 15-inch travel bag. Perfect for surf trips home and abroad. Made with innovative, recycled fabrics. We really enjoyed this product, it isn’t bulky, dries really quick and folds up small enough to fit in your beach basket, tote or rucksack. A top contender when it comes to a warmer weather changing robe. There’s some really sport-chic details around the fastenings and hood too.
dryrobe.com | £280
KAVU
Sunshade Hooded T-Shirt
Ideal for spring sunshine, this comfortable, protective gear is perfect for paddle-boarding, coastal walks, or surf photography. Plus, the ‘Quiet Wildflowers’ design is super summery. If you’re a trail runner, SUP enthusiast or just generally wanting to protect yourself out and about from the sunshine then this is a winner. It’s lightweight and quick-drying material make it the perfect post-splash sweater.
kavu.co.uk | £75.00
Anima Women’s Surf Style,
Tutti-Frutti Zip-Up SurfPoncho
Eco-conscious surf ponchos designed in the Canary Islands by and for women who love the ocean. Your essential garment if you like to go to the beach, swimming pool or be by the sea. The front zip on this lightweight and waffle like material is cute and makes a speedy way to cover-up after a surf or a spontaneous swim. The hood provides good coverage from the sun on those long days from sand to sea and a stylish slip on if you’re popping to grab an ice cream or two. We’d recommend this for all of those warmer days in and out of the surf.
animawomenssurf.com | 79.90 €
XTRATUF
ABD Sport
XTRATUF® has crafted boots for 75+ years. The Ankle Deck Boot Sport is lightweight, durable, slip-resistant, and offers superior comfort. Perfect for those scrambling surf checks. These boots do what they say on the tin at the same time as being particularly good-looking, and in a summery colour-way. During the shoot these came in super handy scrambling and scaling the rocks to get the perfect shot. Highly recommend and they feel like they’ll last a very long time!
xtratuf.co.uk | £140
YETI
Roadie 24 Cool Box
Need we say much more, it’s a YETI! The quality is on point and we’re really enjoying the white colour-way. Not only is this aesthetically pleasing but it kept all of our lunches and cold refreshments cool whilst we spent a whole day out in the sunshine. Not a feat to carry across the rocks or with a surfboard in tow, the comfortable shoulder strap takes the dent out of the weight. This size is probably about as big as you’d want to go if you’re planning to carry comfortably or want to squeeze it in a hatchback car. This, a cold beverage and a BBQ on the beach. 2025 summer goals right here…
uk.yeti.com | £225
Billabong
Bren Knitted Tank & Summer Sunshine Shorts
Effortless laid-back surf chic. Wearable from weekdays to nights out, with a combo that takes the lead on all other combos. The relaxed fit is flattering and also comfortable to wear. We’re a bit obsessed with the colour-way and think both pieces worn separately would also be a vibe. Sizing is on point and we’re popping this at the top of our shopping list for the perfect sunshine co-ord. Get ready to slay the summer.
surfgirlbeachboutique.com | £80 full set
Saltrock
Balance – Women’s Spring Suit
A beautiful blue 2mm double lined neoprene spring suit with flat locked stitching and cute patterns that will style out your surf or swim. This suit is a super easy-wear and we thought the shape of it was practical yet flattering with little shorts for legs. The arm pattern is fun and the powder blue tone is very unique. We want everything in this colour now.
saltrock.com | £55
Arbor, Spellbound Hood
100% organic cotton, with a chest and back print. Simple earthy tones and brushed fleece-lined, perfect for those post surf snuggle-ups. It feels like a hug and looks cool. We were so comfortable shooting this, we didn’t want to take it off. The sassy ‘live fast, die last’ gives it a little grunge, which we enjoy. A reminder to pack it all in when you can!
arborcollective.co.uk | £64.99
CoolBoard
Balance Board
Free-floating on the Ball, it’s as addictive as it is beneficial, keeping you pumped and ready for your next session. The ultimate balance board and a really fun one to bring out with friends. We’d recommend making sure you have an even surface and preferably concrete. Although it does work on grass we found it a little tricky. If you’re training on the move or live in a van then this is a really good bit of kit for those pre surf pumps and we challenge you to do a press up or tree pose…
coolboard.co.uk £152 – £212
Reef
Water Vista Sandals
Ready for the beach? So are the Water Vista Sandals by Reef. Water friendly straps with an espadrille inspired texture makes them quick to dry and comfy when wet. The dual density footbed supports your stride, and a velcro back strap ensures you get the perfect fit. These are an everyday summer wear and they’re really lightweight. Easy to pop in your bag for those office to ocean moments.
surfgirlbeachboutique.com | £65.00
