Cornwall’s coastline is home to a wide range of towns and villages, from larger seaside centres to smaller fishing settlements. The north coast generally has more exposed locations with surf beaches and larger towns, while the south coast tends to be more sheltered, with harbours and traditional villages.
The type of place you choose will depend on what you are looking for. Some towns offer a wide range of facilities, accommodation and activities, while others are quieter, with limited access and fewer services. This page provides an overview of Cornwall’s main coastal towns and villages to help you compare different locations.
Google map of Cornwall
Main Coastal Towns
These towns are larger and more developed, typically offering a wide range of accommodation, restaurants, shops and access to multiple beaches.
St Ives – Harbour town with several beaches, known for art galleries, coastal walks and a compact town centre.
Newquay – One of Cornwall’s main seaside towns, known for surf beaches, coastal activities and a more commercial setting.
Falmouth – Large harbour town on the south coast, combining beaches, maritime history and access to the Fal Estuary.
Padstow – Small harbour town on the Camel Estuary, known for food, harbour activity and nearby sandy beaches.
Bude – Seaside town near the Devon border, with sandy beaches, a canal and access to coastal walking routes.
Looe – Coastal town divided by a river, with a busy harbour, sandy beach and strong fishing heritage.
Fowey – South coast harbour town with estuary views, narrow streets and access to coastal walks.
Penzance – Larger coastal town with a promenade, harbour and access to west Cornwall and nearby landmarks.
Smaller Coastal Villages
These villages are generally less developed, often centred around a harbour or cove, with a quieter and more traditional character.
Port Isaac – Small fishing village with a narrow harbour, known for its setting and connections to television and film.
Mousehole – South coast harbour village with sheltered waters, narrow streets and a compact layout.
Polperro – Historic fishing village with steep streets and a small harbour, largely pedestrianised in the centre.
Mevagissey – Working fishing village with a busy harbour and access to the Roseland and St Austell Bay area.
Rock – Coastal village on the Camel Estuary opposite Padstow, known for sandy beaches, sailing, watersports and ferry access across the river.
St Mawes –
Charlestown – Historic harbour village known for its Georgian port and use as a filming location.
Coverack – Quiet village on the Lizard Peninsula with a small harbour and access to a more rugged coastline.
St Agnes – Coastal village on the north coast with access to cliffs, beaches and former mining landscapes.
Mullion –
Perranporth –
Cadgwith –
Choosing between north and south Cornwall largely depends on exposure, beach type and access. The north coast suits surfing and larger beaches, while the south coast offers sheltered waters and harbour-based villages.