Cornwall's 300-mile coastline offers some of the most spectacular walking in Britain, with rugged cliffs, golden beaches, historic mining ruins, and picturesque fishing villages all connected by the South West Coast Path. Walking these coastal routes provides not just exercise but a profound connection with Cornwall's wild beauty and rich maritime heritage. In this guide, we share five of our favorite Cornish coastal walks, each offering something unique and suitable for different fitness levels.

1. Lizard Point to Kynance Cove (3 miles, Moderate)

This relatively short walk packs in some of Cornwall's most dramatic scenery. Beginning at Lizard Point, the southernmost point of mainland Britain, the path hugs the cliff edge offering breathtaking panoramic views across the turquoise waters of the English Channel. The unique geology of the area features serpentine rock, a dark green-red stone that's been polished and carved into souvenirs for centuries.

As you approach Kynance Cove, prepare to be stunned by what is frequently voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. White sand contrasts with dark red and green serpentine rock stacks, creating a scene more reminiscent of tropical shores than the British coast. Time your walk for low tide to fully explore the cove's caves and islands. The Kynance Cove Café, a solar and wind-powered establishment, offers the perfect refreshment stop before your return journey.

Practical information: Park at Lizard Point (paid) or use the National Trust car park at Kynance Cove and walk the route in reverse. The path is clearly marked but uneven in places with some steep sections. In peak summer, arrive early to beat the crowds at Kynance.

2. Tintagel to Boscastle (5 miles, Moderate)

This route on Cornwall's north coast combines dramatic natural features with sites of historical and mythological significance. Start at Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur, perched dramatically on a headland partly cut off from the mainland. The new footbridge that connects the mainland to the island provides a thrilling start to your walk.

From Tintagel, follow the coast path northeast through wildflower meadows in spring and summer, passing the ancient church at Bossiney with its connections to Thomas Hardy. The trail leads you to Rocky Valley, a hidden gem featuring a dramatic narrow gorge with a tumbling stream and mysterious Bronze Age rock carvings.

Continue along the clifftops, enjoying views of the rugged coastline until you descend into the medieval harbor village of Boscastle. With its distinctive natural inlet flanked by imposing headlands, Boscastle has recovered beautifully from the devastating flood of 2004. Explore the witchcraft museum or enjoy a well-earned cream tea before catching the seasonal bus back to Tintagel.

Practical information: The terrain is challenging in places with steep ascents and descents. Wear sturdy footwear and allow 3-4 hours. Check seasonal bus timetables for the return journey or arrange a taxi in advance.

3. St Ives to Zennor (6 miles, Challenging)

For experienced walkers seeking a more challenging route, the coastal path from the artistic hub of St Ives to the timeless village of Zennor delivers a true taste of Cornwall's wild side. This section of the South West Coast Path is renowned for its rugged beauty and physical demands, but the rewards are immense.

Leaving behind the galleries and beaches of St Ives, the path quickly ascends to wind along granite cliffs that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. The terrain is rough and undulating, with numerous climbs and descents as the path navigates the ancient field systems and rocky headlands.

Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for peregrine falcons, kestrels, and even choughs – the rare red-billed crow that has recently returned to Cornwall. In spring, the cliffs are carpeted with wildflowers, while Atlantic grey seals can often be spotted in the coves below throughout the year.

Zennor itself, with its medieval church housing the famous "mermaid chair" and its historic pub The Tinners Arms (dating from 1271), provides a perfect atmospheric end point with connections to D.H. Lawrence, who lived here during WWI.

Practical information: This is a strenuous one-way walk requiring good fitness and proper hiking boots. Allow 4-5 hours and carry plenty of water. The seasonal bus service (number 16) can return you to St Ives, or book a taxi in advance.

4. Polperro to Looe (5.5 miles, Moderate)

This walk along Cornwall's gentler south coast connects two quintessential fishing villages through a landscape of lush countryside and heritage-rich coastline. Start in the impossibly picturesque Polperro, where whitewashed cottages cluster around a small harbor in a narrow ravine. The village, historically associated with smuggling, is now a conservation area with traffic-free narrow streets perfect for exploring before your walk.

The coast path heads eastward, initially climbing steeply out of Polperro before leveling somewhat to provide spectacular views back to the village. The route passes above several secluded beaches, including Talland Bay where you can descend to the small beach café for refreshments.

Continuing east, the path winds through woodland sections and along cliff edges, passing the remains of a prehistoric cliff castle at Hendersick. The final stretch into Looe offers views of Looe Island, a marine nature reserve with a fascinating history including tales of smugglers and an early Christian settlement.

Looe itself is divided by its river into East and West, connected by a seven-arched bridge. The busy working harbor, wide beach, and numerous restaurants make it a delightful end point with plenty of options for food and drink before catching the bus back to Polperro.

Practical information: The walk has some steep sections but is generally moderate in difficulty. Allow 3 hours for the walk itself. Bus services run regularly between the two villages, or you can arrange a taxi return.

5. Porthcurno to Land's End (6.5 miles, Moderate to Challenging)

For a walk that delivers an epic sense of journey to the very edge of England, the route from Porthcurno to Land's End is hard to beat. Begin at Porthcurno Beach with its fine white sand and turquoise water that appears almost tropical on sunny days. Above the beach sits the remarkable Minack Theatre, an open-air venue dramatically carved into the cliff face – worth a visit before starting your walk.

The coast path climbs away from Porthcurno, soon reaching Porth Chapel and then the exposed headland of Gwennap Head. Here, the coastguard lookout station operates a vital service monitoring this dangerous stretch of water. Look for the distinctive red and black daymark "balls" that warn ships of hazardous offshore rocks.

The next section passes through Porthgwarra, a tiny cove featured in the TV series Poldark, before the path continues past impressive granite cliffs and the remains of ancient field systems. Throughout this walk, you'll be treated to expansive views of the Atlantic, with frequent sightings of seabirds and possibly even dolphins or basking sharks in summer months.

The final approach to Land's End, the most westerly point of mainland England, offers increasingly dramatic coastal scenery. While the Land's End visitor complex itself can be busy, the surrounding clifftop landscape retains a wild, end-of-the-world feeling that has inspired visitors for centuries.

Practical information: This walk involves several steep sections and rough terrain in places. Allow 3-4 hours for the walk plus additional time for stops. The seasonal Land's End Coaster bus service can return you to Porthcurno between April and October, or a taxi can be pre-booked.

Essential Tips for Coastal Walking in Cornwall

Check the weather forecast before setting out – conditions can change rapidly on the Cornish coast.

Tide times are critical for walks with beach sections or cove crossings. Some routes become impassable or dangerous at high tide.

Carry adequate water and snacks, especially on the more remote sections where facilities are limited.

Mobile phone coverage can be patchy along the coast path. Download offline maps and inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time.

Respect the environment by staying on designated paths, taking all litter home, and observing wildlife from a distance.

At Originalinaya Lipa, we can arrange guided walking experiences along these routes and many others throughout Cornwall, complete with local transport, accommodation in charming coastal villages, and luggage transfers for multi-day walking holidays. Our knowledgeable guides enhance your experience with insights into the natural history, folklore, and cultural heritage of this magnificent coastline.