Daymer Bay

A sweeping curve of golden sand backed by low dunes, Daymer Bay sits just north of Polzeath and feels properly removed from the busier beaches along this stretch of coast. The bay itself is sheltered, with rocky outcrops at either end creating natural windbreaks - handy when the Atlantic's in a mood. At low tide the sand stretches out endlessly, giving you room to breathe even when other spots are rammed. The walk down from the car park is straightforward, though the access could be better signposted. Water quality is generally good, and the gentle slope makes it decent for families with younger kids who aren't confident swimmers. Worth noting: this isn't the place for drama or Instagram-worthy cliff faces. It's understated. The dunes behind the beach are fragile, so stick to the paths. Surfers might find the waves uninspiring on flat days, but body boarders and casual swimmers do well here. Allow a couple of hours if you're combining it with nearby Polzeath, or half a day if you're making a proper beach afternoon of it. Several holiday parks sit within easy reach - Porthilly Beach Holiday Park is barely over a mile away, making Daymer a natural choice for a peaceful morning swim before heading to livelier spots like Constantine Bay or Watergate Bay. Go early or late in summer to avoid the crush. Winter's genuinely lovely, with the bay often nearly empty.