Britain’s hidden gem named among ‘best beaches’ boasts Mediterranean waters and golden sands

Located on the southwest coast of Cornwall, Kynance Cove is a National Trust gem renowned for its spectacular rocky coastline and incredible ocean views. Although the beach is only 200 meters long, its extraordinary beauty has led to its recognition as one of the most captivating beaches in the world in the 2024 edition of the World’s 50 Best Beaches.

Kynance Cove offers a small but charming slice of paradise, with its white sands and clear turquoise waters more reminiscent of the Mediterranean than Britain. Tucked away from the usual South West tourist routes, its secluded setting adds to its charm.

The Cornish attraction also features distinctive rock formations, including the notable Serpentine Rock and Asparagus Island – a small tidal island where the rare wild asparagus grows. These natural wonders add to the appeal of the bay, offering visitors dramatic and fascinating scenery to discover and capture through their lenses.

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Earning thousands of five-star reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor, visitors have praised Kynance Cove as “stunning” and a “National Trust treasure”. Its alien appeal has led many to compare it with destinations such as the French Riviera or the Balearic beaches of Menorca.

The enchanting atmosphere of Kynance Cove is something to cherish and as such many tourists to the area choose to stay overnight or longer. While the beach itself offers limited facilities, a leisurely stroll into the nearby village of Halston will provide shops, refreshments and accommodation.

Where to stay near Kynance Cove

With an influx of thousands of visitors each year, there is a wide range of hotels and guesthouses available to suit all budgets.

According to TripAdvisor, the top rated establishment is the Housel Bay Hotel and Restaurant, a classic seaside hotel with stunning views. Conveniently located next to the beach, the Cornish Coast Path is even closer, passing through the gardens, just outside the hotel door.

Other great options include the Mullion Cove Hotel and Spa, with its comfortable rooms and stunning sea views, and the Polurrian on the Lizard, which has 12 acres of gardens and its own private beach.

Where to eat

Just a stone’s throw from the beach, Kynance Cove Cafe has been rated ‘excellent’ on TripAdvisor with an overall score of 4.5 out of five. Visitors enjoy the views of the bay as well as the delicious cakes and pastries.

Those looking for more substantial dining could try Smugglers Fish and Chips in Lizard, which serves fresh fish that the locals swear by, while Cadgwith Cove Inn has over 700 reviews from satisfied customers who enjoyed lunch or dinner during their visit .

Given the secluded location, what could be more ideal than a hot coffee from Ellie’s Soul Kitchen, a renovated campervan located on the edge of the bay?

Where to drink

Given the serene and remote setting, there are no pubs adjacent to Kynance Cove and most visitors would prefer to stay that way. However, just a short drive away in Helston, The Witchball is a traditional Cornish pub offering reasonably priced ales and ciders along with a substantial lunch menu.

A little further up, The Top House Inn, the most southerly inn in all of England, serves a variety of beers, wines and spirits in its refurbished bar, as well as a popular Sunday lunch, which tends to fill up quite quickly.

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