There’s a reason December is one of the most magical months to visit, when lovers of the sea can find and feel more while exploring Padstow’s coastline.
We call this time of year #SecretSeason – when it’s quieter, more elemental – the tang of salt and smoke in the air, festive lights pooling across the harbour like an oil painting, and long stretches of sand marked only by oystercatcher prints.
Wrap up warm and join us, as we uncover Padstow’s best shoreside walks and secluded coves to discover.
There’s more than one way to reach Harbour Cove (also known as Tregirls Beach) from the charming town of Padstow, each taking in a different perspective on the shoreline landscape.
For an inland route, begin your exploration in town, via Church Street or Church Lane passing St Petroc’s Church. From here, a signed public footpath will lead you towards Prideaux Place, a stunning grade I listed Elizabethan country house.
Continue along the inland footpath, past Tregirls Farm. Take a moment to bask in the beauty of the countryside, before following the path downhill towards Harbour Cove. Here you’ll discover a wide, sandy beach, where river meets sea.
Behind the sand, grassy dunes rise, offering shelter from the winter breeze. Across the estuary, you can catch glimpses of Rock and Daymer Bay, along with Padstow’s famous Doom Bar. This shifting sandbank has claimed many ships over the centuries. Local folklore tells of the Padstow Mermaid, said to have shaped the sandbank itself.
Or, stick to the shoreline, following the South West Coast Path: from Padstow Harbour, head north past the main quay, and look for the signposted trail along the estuary edge. This estuary stretch is rich in stunning views where the winter sun glints across the tidal flats. Continue past Gun Point, then follow the path which leads down to Harbour Cove.
When the tide falls, Harbour Cove stretches far into the estuary: its firm sand often dotted with wading birds and the occasional dog walker. This beach is dog-friendly all year round to keep your furry companions satisfied.
Continuing this way along the South West Coast Path brings you to Hawker’s Cove, a sheltered beach at the foot of Stepper Point.
The old Padstow Lifeboat Station still stands here, a reminder of the estuary’s maritime past. At low tide, Hawker’s Cove and Harbour Cove merge into one continuous sweep of sand beneath the cliffs. In winter, catch turnstones dancing along the tide, and the occasional seal surfacing offshore.
From Hawker’s Cove, climb the path up Stepper Point, the headland guarding the estuary entrance. At its summit stands the stone Daymark, known locally as The Pepper Pot, built in the 1830s to guide seafarers across the estuary and Atlantic during daylight.
Pause to take in the view: the Camel glinting in the light and Trevose Head on the horizon, and, on a clear day, the village of Rock twinkling across the water.
To reach Rock from Padstow, take to the water on the historic Black Tor Ferry for a scenic crossing to this charming village. Operating since the 14th century, soak up stunning views of the estuary as this ferry completes its 5-10 minute journey. Winter crossings run six days a week, with slightly reduced hours, so make sure to check the timetable before you go.
Once you’ve arrived in Rock, you can explore in two different directions: southwest towards Porthillly or north toward Daymer Bay.
Famous for its Porthilly Oysters and picturesque beachside church, Porthilly offers a scenic spot to enjoy the estuary. At low tide, you can follow the shoreline past the Sailing Club to Porthilly Cove. At high tide, the same route is accessible via Porthilly lane, a quiet country road leading down from Rock to the beach.
Fancy a taste of Porthilly? Visit Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant or Prawn on the Lawn in Padstow. Served fresh, their Porthilly oysters are renowned for their creamy, buttery texture – a proper Cornish delicacy.
Heading north from Rock, you’ll find Daymer Bay. At low tide you can reach the bay along the beach, or during high tide take the coast path. Here you’ll discover a sheltered stretch perfect for shell-collecting even when the Atlantic is roaring.
For panoramic views across the bay, climb up Brea Hill located at the beaches northern edge, or walk to the nearby St Enodoc Church, a Saxon chapel tucked among the sand dunes, the resting place of former Poet Laureate Sir John Betjeman.
Stretch out the adventuring along the coast path to the lesser-known Greenaway beach, accessible down steep steps from the coast path – ideal for some rockrapture – that excitement of exploring the sea’s closely held secrets. Then onto Polzeath on the coast path.
Further afield, explore the bays of Trevone and Mother Ivey, tucked behind Trevose Head. In winter, these beaches are often yours to enjoy undisturbed.
After exploring the coastline, be welcomed back to Padstow harbour with the warm festive spirit, as the Christmas lights glow across the quay.
Explore a tangle of waterside boutiques through the narrow streets, as the salty air carries the faint aroma of woodsmoke and freshly cooked seafood from culinary delights like Prawn on the Lawn, or colourful flavour-bursting dishes at Sabzi.
Refuel with a harbourside mug of hot chocolate from Greens of Padstow, open daily during winter, or hideaway in Prideaux Walled Garden, with free entry, where you can sample garden produce in The Bothy cafe.
Combine comfort and convenience to begin and end each day spent taking in the delights of #SecretSeason around Padstow – and celebrating Cornish food and drink with the region’s leading chefs.
Take advantage of our winter two free nights offer – if you book a three or five night stay you’ll receive an extra two nights in your retreat.
The Sail Loft – Light and spacious with views over Padstow Harbour, sliding patio doors onto a balcony, and a cosy living space ideal for couples or small families seeking a peaceful coastal escape.
No 5 The Long Store – A two-bedroom apartment overlooking Padstow Harbour, featuring open-plan living and a balcony perfect for soaking up the winter harbour scene.
Driftwood – A four-bedroom family home with Edwardian charm, a jacuzzi bath, and a sun terrace overlooking the Camel Estuary. Perfect for unwinding after a festive day out.
All three are steps from the coast path, ready for windswept walks, slow mornings, and evenings by the fire. Other Beach Retreats properties across North Cornwall are also within easy reach of the fayre.
Explore our locations and property sets to find the place for you, for your time by the sea and follow along on Instagram for more Secret Season inspiration.
