Visit Great Perhaver Beach
Great Perhaver Beach is one of those places that rewards a little extra effort. Hidden beneath the cliffs west of Gorran Haven, this sandy cove feels far removed from Cornwall’s busier beaches. There are no cafés, shops or beach facilities waiting at the bottom. Instead, visitors are greeted by open sand, clear water and a coastline shaped by the sea.
The beach is sheltered by high cliffs, creating a peaceful setting that attracts walkers, swimmers and anyone looking for a quieter stretch of coast. At low tide, a wide expanse of sand emerges, revealing rock pools, small caves and plenty of space to explore. High tide transforms the cove completely, with much of the beach disappearing beneath the water. Checking tide times before visiting is essential.
Reaching Great Perhaver Beach is part of the experience. Most visitors walk from nearby Gorran Haven along the South West Coast Path before following a steep path down to the shore. The route can be muddy after wet weather and is not suitable for pushchairs or those with limited mobility.
The beach remains relatively quiet even during summer. Families enjoy searching the rock pools, while photographers are drawn to the dramatic cliffs and sweeping coastal views. On calm days, the clear water is inviting for a swim, although there is no lifeguard service and visitors should take care when entering the sea.
Great Perhaver Beach offers a different side of Cornwall. It is less about facilities and convenience and more about natural beauty, coastal scenery and finding a peaceful corner of the coastline away from the crowds.
This beach is …
What to see and do
The surrounding coastline is one of the beach’s biggest attractions. A visit to Great Perhaver can easily become part of a longer coastal walk, with spectacular views stretching across St Austell Bay and several beautiful coves within walking distance.
Discover more in the area
Places to stay
Most visitors choose to stay in Gorran Haven or Mevagissey, both of which provide easy access to the beach while offering shops, restaurants and other holiday facilities. Staying locally also places several of South Cornwall’s finest beaches within easy reach.
Have a great day out by the coast
Photo by UK Beach Days
Getting To Great Perhaver Beach
Beach Location
Near Gorran Haven, St Austell, Cornwall PL26 6JW
Parking
No dedicated beach car park. Parking available in Gorran Haven village.
Nearest Train
St Austell Train Station
Great Perhaver Beach is located just west of Gorran Haven on Cornwall’s south coast. The easiest route is to park in Gorran Haven and follow the South West Coast Path towards the beach. A steep path leads down from the clifftop to the sand. Good footwear is recommended, particularly after rain, as sections of the path can become slippery. The walk is short but adds to the sense of discovery that makes this beach so special.
Map of Great Perhaver Beach
Explore the UK coastline
What’s On along the Coast
Throughout the year there are a series of events and festivals taking place along the Coast in 2026. Find out What’s On from food festivals to cultural and sporting events.
Read more from the blog here