Crackington Haven Beach Crackington Haven Beach

Crackington Haven Beach is a pretty sand and shingle cove located on the North Cornish coast, a few miles south of Bude.

Dominated by the steep cliffs of Pencannow and by the headland of Cambeak, rising high above the lapping tide, the beach itself is a real gem. It's a quiet spot that's relatively sheltered thanks to the high cliffs, with a gently shelving shoreline and a lovely stretch of golden sand at low tide. As the waters recede, look out for rock pools harbouring all manners of tiny fascinating creatures.

If you've forgotten your net, head into the village of Crackington Haven, backing onto the beach, where you'll find a handy shop with essential beach supplies. There's also a cafe, pub restaurant, ample car parking with easy access to the beach, and toilets. The beach is monitored during the summer months, with no dogs allowed from Easter to October.

If you have brought the hound with you, don't despair. The views around Crackington Haven are simply breathtaking - so you could always opt for an alternative view of the beach. Follow the South West Coast Path up onto the cliffs of Pencannow, overlooking the bay to the north, and you'll be treated to a spectacular vista of the aptly-name Wreckers' Coast.

On a clear day you can even gaze out across the Celtic Sea to Lundy Island - although this isn't necessarily a good thing. Folklore has it that when you can see the island, rain is imminent.

Back on the beach, and like many bays along the north Cornish coast, Crackington Haven Beach is famous for surfing. While the swells are often smaller than nearby Widemouth Bay, it's popular with local surfers and those 'in the know' who prefer quieter shores away from the crowds. It's a good spot for beginners as well as more seasoned surfers - taking into account the treacherous rocks at either end of the bay.

Whilst at Crackington Haven, look out for the aptly-named High Cliff which is accessible from the South West Coast Path. Standing at 731ft this is the highest cliff in England and, as you can imagine, affords some pretty spectacular views. Look back towards Crackington Haven, south towards Boscastle, or across the twinkling seas before you. It's soul-stirring stuff.

On the way to High Cliff, you may come across the hamlet of St Gennys and its pretty stone church. It's approximately half a mile north from Crackington Haven and occupies a picturesque location with high hills and deep, wooded valleys. Enjoy superb views over Millook and Widemouth Bay. Testament to the ferocity of the Wreckers' Coast, St Gennys church graveyard is the last resting place of many shipwrecked mariners and smugglers.

Wreckers' Coast aside, this pretty bay really lives up to its name as a 'haven', and it's the perfect addition to any beach camping holiday in Cornwall.