Porthtowan
Porthtowan is a consistent north-coast beach break that picks up more swell than many nearby spots. The beach faces north-west and produces punchy, hollow waves at its best, especially on a pushing mid tide. Less crowded than Newquay, with a strong local scene. The cliffs either side focus the swell. Can handle overhead waves but closes out when too big.
Conditions look mixed today with moderate onshore wind and a dropping swell period through the afternoon. Best bet is the early morning push before the wind picks up. Tomorrow looks cleaner with a slight shift in direction.
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Everything you need to know before paddling out at Porthtowan, England.
Hazards & Safety
Strong rips, heavy shore break on bigger swells. Rocks exposed at low tide on both sides.
Local Tips
Best on a pushing mid tide. Can produce very hollow waves — boogie boarders love it. The cliffs either side focus the swell. Closes out when too big (overhead+). Blue Bar is a great post-surf spot.
Getting There
Car park right behind the beach. Very short walk.
Parking: Pay & display directly behind beach. Limited spaces.
Facilities: Toilets, Blue Bar on the beach, surf hire.
Crowds
Moderate — popular with local surfers but less touristy than Newquay.
Water Temperature by Month
Water temperatures and recommended wetsuit thickness by month
Tide data from Porthtowan
Average daily wave height and wind speed from past forecast data. Updates as more data is collected.
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Porthtowan is a consistent north-coast beach break that picks up more swell than many nearby spots. The beach faces north-west and produces punchy, hollow waves at its best, especially on a pushing mid tide. Less crowded than Newquay, with a strong local scene. The cliffs either side focus the swell. Can handle overhead waves but closes out when too big.
Conditions look mixed today with moderate onshore wind and a dropping swell period through the afternoon. Best bet is the early morning push before the wind picks up.
Tide data from Porthtowan
Water temp & wetsuit by month
Average daily wave height and wind speed from past forecast data
Strong rips, heavy shore break on bigger swells. Rocks exposed at low tide on both sides.
Best on a pushing mid tide. Can produce very hollow waves — boogie boarders love it. The cliffs either side focus the swell. Closes out when too big (overhead+). Blue Bar is a great post-surf spot.
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