Gwithian Towans Beach is a long sandy beach located on the north coast of Cornwall, forming part of St Ives Bay to the east of Hayle. It stretches from Godrevy Point in the north towards Hayle Estuary in the south and is backed by an extensive dune system known as the Towans. The beach has an open, exposed character, facing the Atlantic and receiving consistent swell throughout much of the year.
The beach is predominantly sandy, with a wide, gently sloping profile that expands significantly at low tide. The firm sand makes it suitable for walking over long distances, with uninterrupted stretches extending for several miles. At high tide, the usable area reduces but remains relatively large due to the beach’s scale. Gwithian Towans is known for its reliable surf conditions and views towards Godrevy Lighthouse at the northern end, as well as for its expansive dune landscape.
Access is available from several points along the coastline, with car parks located at Gwithian Towans, Godrevy and nearby areas. From these, short walks across the dunes lead to the beach. The terrain can be uneven in places, particularly over sand paths. Facilities are more limited than in town-based beaches but typically include toilets, seasonal cafés and lifeguard cover at designated areas during the main season. Parking is generally pay-and-display, with National Trust car parks at Godrevy.
Gwithian Towans Beach can be visited year-round, with summer providing more stable conditions and greater accessibility. It is well suited to walking, surfing and those seeking a less developed coastal setting. The large size of the beach helps disperse visitors, even during busier periods. The exposed nature of the coastline means wind and wave conditions can be strong, particularly outside summer months. Swimming requires caution due to currents, and distances across the beach can be considerable, especially at low tide.