Bodyboarding in Cornwall. My literal happy place!
Growing up I was fortunate enough to spend my summers bodyboarding in St Ives.
I loved it as a kid – and I still love it as an adult.
There are a number of amazing beaches for bodyboarding in Cornwall as well as other areas of the Westcountry.
Here’s my pick of the best beaches for bodyboarding in Cornwall:
#1 – Porthmeor Beach, St Ives
It would be wrong of me to not put this as my number one beach – seeing as this was the beach I grew up bodyboarding at every single summer.
It’s an absolutely stunning beach with the beautiful blue water that you come to know and love whilst traveling in Cornwall!
You get great waves here which, for the most part, are suitable for beginners as well as more experienced bodyboarders.
The beach typically has lifeguards on duty, as well as a lovely beachfront cafe/restaurant.
There are various parking options in St Ives but be prepared for a little walk or to park and ride at peak times of the year.
St Ives also has a number of amazing Hotels, Hostels, & AirBnB properties within a walkable distance of Porthmeor Beach.
#2 – Polzeath Beach, Polzeath
Polzeath is an iconic beach in the Cornish surf scene. A perfect and beautiful location for all of your bodyboarding needs!
Polzeath Beach is typically patrolled by lifeguards and there is parking right on the beach. That said, in peak times it can get very busy – so get there early!
There are various options for food and drink right on the beach.
As for accommodation, there are various AirBnB’s and hotels in the area. One of my absolute favorites for a treat is St Moritz in nearby Trebetherick. They offer a shuttle service in their 4×4 directly to the beach – so no parking worries!
#3 – Widemouth Bay, Bude
When they names Widemouth Bay, they weren’t joking. It’s huge and stunning!
The beach has a mix of sand and shingle and quite a “wild” feel about it, even though it’s very accessible via car.
Widemouth Bay is typically lifeguarded during the main season.
There are some really lovely AirBnBs right on the beach, as well as a handful of hotels dotted around.
In terms of food & drink, there are some lovely little shops and inns dotted around along the bay.
If you’re into fishing, Widemouth Bay is also a really popular place to try your luck. We’ve caught some delicious Bass straight off the beach here!
#4 – Fistral Beach, Newquay
Fistral Beach is one of the most iconic “surfing” beaches in Cornwall, and for good reason.
There are great waves here, perfect for bodyboarding, and the beach typically has lifeguards on duty.
Fistral Beach is a long sandy beach with plenty of options for food and drink.
There’s ample parking in the area (though it is paid). I’ve never had a problem finding a space.
The beach is within walking distance of the center of Newquay so there are plenty of options in terms of accommodation. Newquay boasts an amazing choice of Hotels, Hostels, and AirBnBs.
#5 – Mawgan Porth
Nestled about halfway between Padstow and Newquay you will find the cute little village of Mawgan Porth.
Mawgan Porth is a beautiful sandy beach that gets some lovely waves perfect for bodyboarders of all abilities.
The beach typically has lifeguards on duty and there are a range of really lovely restaurants, cafes, and shops in the village.
There is paid parking available near to the beach, though this can get busy at peak times!
In terms of places to stay, there are some great options in the Mawgan Porth area, including my beloved “The Park” – a luxurious holiday park with a wide choice of types of accommodation, two pools, and a fabulous restaurant.
#6 – Watergate Bay
Ah. Watergate Bay. I feel like this is probably one of the coolest and most exclusive beaches in Cornwall.
Like…it’s the place to “be seen”.
Don’t let it put you off though!
Watergate Bay is absolutely STUNNING and is a paradise for bodyboarders.
It boasts an expansive sandy beach, great waves, and is typically patrolled by lifeguards.
There are great places to eat at Watergate Bay, but be warned, some can be pricey! I love to chill out in “The Living Space” at the Watergate Bay Hotel to enjoy the views, a drink, and maybe a bar meal.
There is plenty of parking in the area. If the car parks are full near to the beach, there is another car park at the top of the hill with a path leading down, just leave yourself enough energy for the climb back up after your bodyboarding session!
If you want to stay at Watergate Bay, the options in walking distance of the beach are minimal. However, if you are wanting to treat yourself, staying at the Watergate Bay Hotel is spectacular. I’m currently saving my pennies to go back and stay there soon!