Tolcarne Beach
Surfers Quick Guide: Perfect wind SW, shifting peaks, all tides and a sandy bottom,Reliability:fairly consistent,Rating:4/5
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Cornwall, England, Porth Beach is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, it’s no wonder that this beach has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The main attraction of Porth Beach is its pristine shoreline. The soft, golden sands stretch for over half a mile, providing ample space for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views. The water is crystal-clear and inviting, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding.
Porth Beach is also a popular spot for surfing. The waves here are consistent and suitable for surfers of all levels. Other water sports activities available at the beach include kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing.
Tolcarne Beach, nestled in a secluded cove near Newquay, Cornwall, is a haven for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. This picturesque beach boasts stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and a unique charm that draws visitors year-round. However, getting to this hidden gem requires a bit of planning, especially when it comes to parking.
While Tolcarne Beach itself offers no parking for non-residents, there are a few options available:
Hotel Guests Only:** The road leading down to the beach has limited parking, but this is exclusively for guests of the nearby hotel.
Cliff Top Residential Streets:** Unrestricted parking can be found on nearby cliff top residential streets, but spaces are limited and may be difficult to find, especially during peak season.
Pay and Display Options:** The closest pay and display options are Newquay Train Station and Albany Road car parks. These offer a convenient alternative, but you’ll need to factor in the additional walking time to reach the beach.
**Parking Charges at Tolcarne Beach 2024:**
For those opting for the pay and display options, here are the current parking charges for 2024:
* **Mon-Sun – All day**
* 1 Hour – £2.20
* 2 Hours – £3.50
* 4 Hours – £6.00
* 8 Hours – £10.50
* 24 Hours – £12.00
Surfing Forecast
The magic of Tolcarne Wedge unfolds as the tide recedes. On the right side of the beach, powerful right-handers march in, offering a thrilling ride until high tide. As the water rises, the waves encounter the cliff face between Great Western and Tolcarne, creating a fascinating spectacle.
The key to Tolcarne’s unique wave lies in the phenomenon of refraction. As the incoming waves collide with the cliff, they interact with cross waves, resulting in a powerful wedge-shaped wave. This ‘Tolcarne Wedge,’ as it’s affectionately known, is considered by many to be the best bodyboarding wave in the UK.
The beauty of Tolcarne Wedge lies in its versatility. On smaller swells and a 5.5m tide or higher, the left-hand corner offers a fun, bowly wave, perfect for aerial maneuvers. The wave’s shape resembles a skateboard half-pipe, providing a unique and exhilarating experience.
For those seeking a truly epic session, Tolcarne delivers on bigger tides (7m+). The wedge becomes even more powerful, attracting bodyboarders from far and wide. The spectacle of skilled riders performing gymnastic maneuvers on these waves is a sight to behold, making Tolcarne a prime spot for evening viewing.