Recommendations: Suitable for intermediate and experienced surfers that have possibly surfed similar areas. However those who want to learn to surf or are beginners can come during the Life Guard season** and even have lessons with the surf school.
Dangers: Very rocky beach, can be hard to access at mid-tide, known for strong rip currents in certain areas.
Walking:
Starting at Tintagel you can follow the coast path endlessly. Passing through Trebarwith and continuing towards Port Isaac, it can be very worthwhile. Other that its spectacular coastal views there are some rather impressive remnants of the cliff quarry workings that were in action up to the beginnings of World War II. There are also some beautiful secluded coves accessible along the coast path that can be the perfect pit stop for a picnic. ‘Back ways’ and Tregardoc are the most popular and are clearly sign posted along the footpath. Furthermore, if a surfer, Tregardoc can offer even better waves than Trebarwith but take heed as this beach is not patrolled by lifeguards and is only safe at low tide.
Recommendations: Stick to coastal paths and close gates you pass through. If visiting Tregardoc you can walk from Delabole or Trebarwith but there is also parking available at Tregardoc farm. Yet take note it is very limited, possibly ten cars maximum. And remember your camera; most of the best views can only be experienced via foot.
Food & Drink: After your day out there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat. There are two cafes situated down Trebarwith and the Port William serves mainly pub food, but it sits above the beach and looks over the whole stretch. For the best cuisine though I would recommend the Mill House. A few minutes walk from the beach, the Mill House set in the wooded valley, offers tranquil, relaxing surroundings and has a great range of food including fresh seafood caught just off Trebarwith. The Mill also has a very friendly atmosphere and is a great place for either a quiet drink or a night out with your friends. For other places to eat Tintagel, famous for its possible connection with King Arthur, is just up the road and features a variety of restaurants and pubs.
Accommodation: There are many types of accommodation to suit your budget around the area. From holiday cottages to rent right down by the beach itself, too a number of B&B’s situated up on the headland in Treknow with breathtaking views. The Mill House and Port William are also hotels but it is advised to book in advance for somewhere located near the beach. However if you feel you need to save money then there are caravans and cheaper accommodation in the surrounding villages Delabole and Tintagel which are both within two miles of the beach.
At the bottom of the wooded valley it’s an ideal retreat for those who just want to shut out their other life. Many celebrities have chosen Trebarwith as a hideaway, such as Kate Moss, Jude Law and Keith Flint [Prodigy]. So whoever you are; family, couple, on your ‘oneses’, surfer or celeb Trebarwith will blow you away. Come and experience one of the best beaches in Cornwall***, get a pasty and have a holiday.
* Films filmed in Trebarwith include “Saving Grace” [2000], “Oscar and Lucinda” [1997] and most famously as the coast of Illyria for the production of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” [1996].
**Life Guard Season = May 19th till 23rd September 2008
*** Recommended in Marine Conservation Authority Good Beach Guide 2006 and Encams Seaside Award 2006
**** Dog Friendly Beach