September and October in Cornwall are famed for their vivid orange sunsets setting over the Autumnal swells from deep out in the Atlantic. In this blog we explore the best easy to access spots in North Cornwall to witness one.
New Polzeath
A firm favourite among many with easy parking and access, as well as stunning views across the mouth of the Camel estuary towards the Daymark on Stepper Point and further on to Trevose Head and it’s the lighthouse in the far distance. Sunsets here can be enjoyed all year round with the sun setting close to Stepper Point on the opposite side of the estuary in winter and further North between the islands of Gulland and Newlands in the Summer. The perfect spot for a sundowner picnic.
Daymer Bay and St Enodoc
Set further down the estuary a short distance from Polzeath is beautiful Daymer Bay. It is a little more secluded than its near neighbour Polzeath, therefore, benefits from some more tranquil surroundings and calmer waters as the sun sets in the evening. A large car park means easy access with a network of footpaths nearby for different viewing positions. Enjoy the orange glow as the sun sets behind Stepper Point perfectly framed by St Enodoc Church in the foreground. For those in need of a little more panorama head up to the top of Brea Hill.
Trevone (Porthmissen Bay)
The small bay of Trevone village sits on the outer fringes of Padstow parish. The bay itself is called Porthmissen and faces West making it an ideal sunset spot all year round. Sunsets are framed by Trevose head in the distance and the beaches of Harlyn and Mother Iveys down the coast. Viewers can often see the Padstow Lifeboat launch from its station in Mother Iveys on a training evening as the sun goes down. There is a large car park on the beachfront and the headland is just a short 300-metre walk meaning easy access to stunning clifftop views. Those viewing the sunset at Trevone can also marvel at the large round hole on the cliffside formed by a collapsed cave beneath.
Constantine Bay
One of the most well-known beaches in the Padstow area is that of Constantine and Boobies Bay. A large westerly expanse of sand and great surf makes it one of the more dramatic spots to watch a sunset. The beach can be accessed via a car park and short footpaths at both ends. The sand dunes backing onto Trevose Golf Course are the ultimate spot to sit perched above the bay and take in the views as the sun sets between the Quies and Trevose Head.
Trebarwith Strand
Further back up the coast towards Tintagel is the rugged coastal hamlet of Trebarwith. The sandy beach becomes completely covered at high tide and is accessed over rocks so care should be taken here. A lower tide will allow for better views at this spot so it’s worth checking to tides beforehand. A couple of small car parks are nearby and make for easy access. The West-North-West facing bay is landmarked by Gull Rock where the best sunsets are often found setting either side. Those who venture here for a sunset can often enjoy a drink afterwards at the popular Port William Inn and bask in the glow on the terrace.
The Rumps, Nr. Polzeath
A little more off the beaten track along the South West Coast Path are The Rumps. A rockly, jagged outcrop to the North of Pentire Headland makes a dramatic landscape perfect for those Instagram worthy sunset shots. This spot is most easily accessed via the Pentireglaze National Trust Car Park and well marked footpaths. En Route sunset seekers can enjoy spectacular views back over Polzeath and down the coast beyond. A spot definately worth making the effort for.
The Point at Polzeath
Our very own clubhouse is blessed with some incredible views towards Polzeath and Newlands island to the North as well as Brea Hill to the West forming a massive 270-degree view. The sunsets are often enjoyed by those having a sundowner drink in the Bear Bar on the terrace whilst watching the final few golfers play into the greens in front. In the winter the sun sets further west towards Brea Hill with the summer sunsets setting directly in front of the clubhouse.
