Castle Beach is a small beach located in Falmouth on the south coast of Cornwall, situated between Pendennis Point and Gyllyngvase Beach. It lies close to Pendennis Castle and faces Falmouth Bay, giving it a relatively sheltered position compared to the north coast. The beach is easily reached from the town and is often used as a quieter alternative to nearby sandy beaches.
The beach is mainly composed of shingle and coarse sand, with rocky areas exposed at low tide. It is backed by low cliffs and open grassland leading up towards Pendennis Head. The shoreline is uneven in places, with rock pools visible when the tide is out. Castle Beach is known for its calm water conditions and is commonly used for swimming, snorkelling and exploring rock pools rather than traditional beach activities.
Access is straightforward via a coastal road and footpaths linking it to Falmouth town centre and Pendennis Castle. Limited roadside parking is available nearby, and additional parking can be found within walking distance in Falmouth. Facilities are minimal on the beach itself, although cafés, toilets and other services are available in nearby areas. The beach is also accessible via the South West Coast Path, making it part of longer walking routes.
Castle Beach can be visited throughout the year, with the best conditions during warmer months when sea temperatures are higher. It is suitable for swimming, snorkelling and short visits, particularly for those staying in Falmouth. The uneven surface and lack of sand make it less suitable for traditional beach use or families with young children. Tidal changes affect access to rock pools and the available space, with more features exposed at low tide.