Porthcurno is one of the most popular beaches in Cornwall with turquoise-blue waters and white-washed sandy shores.
Porthcurno is arguably one of the most popular and photographed beaches in Cornwall. Renowned for its turquoise waters and fine, white sandy beach, Porthcurno offers a picturesque setting which has been featured in many films and TV series. The beach is ideal for families with lifeguard patrols during the summer ensuring a safe swimming environment.
For those interested in history and technology, the Telegraph Museum Porthcurno is a fascinating dive into the world of undersea communications, celebrating the village’s pivotal role in global connectivity. Nearby, the Minack Theatre, an open-air venue carved into the cliffs, provides a unique theatrical experience with the ocean as its backdrop—check the schedule and book in advance for performances.
Due to it’s populatrity visitors should be mindful of the limited parking available as well as traffic conjestion down the small roads, especially during peak seasons, so consider arriving early . Respect the natural environment by staying on marked paths and leaving no trace to preserve Porthcurno’s beauty for future generations.
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- Carpark (Charges apply)
- Public Toilets
- Café (Seasonal)
- Shop
- Hazard: Tides (Rising / Falling)
- Hazard: Strong currents
- Limited access for wheelchairs
- Lifeguards (Summer only)
- Dogs allowed (Winter only)
- 5 minute walk from carpark
History of Porthcurno
Porthcurno holds a unique place in global communication history. This picturesque valley, with its stunning white sandy beach and clear waters, became an unlikely hub of international communication in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The village’s transformation began in 1870 when it was chosen as the landing point for the first undersea telegraph cable from Britain to India, part of the British Empire’s vast telegraph network. This technological marvel significantly reduced communication times between the British administration and its colonies. The Porthcurno Telegraph Station, established to manage this communication network, became the world’s largest cable station with cables stretching to various parts of the Empire and beyond.
The telegraph station played a crucial role during both World Wars, with Porthcurno becoming a target for German forces in WWII due to its importance in global communications. To protect the vital equipment and personnel, the station’s operations were moved underground into tunnels carved out of the solid granite.
Today, the telegraph station serves as the Telegraph Museum Porthcurno, showcasing the village’s remarkable contribution to modern communications. Visitors can explore the history of telegraphy, the impact of global communication, and the evolution of technology in this secluded corner of Cornwall.
Travel / Parking information for Porthcurno
Directions to Porthcurno
To reach Porthcurno head towards Penzance on the A30 and then take the A3071 towards St Just. Turn onto the B3283, following signs for Porthcurno. The last part of the journey has some steep hills and narrow lanes which during the summer can get gridlocked with traffic.
Parking for Porthcurno
Porthcurno has a large car park located near the beach. This car park is well-signposted and operates on a pay-and-display basis. Due to Porthcurno's popularity, especially during summer months and theatre season, arriving early to secure a parking spot is advisable. Do not park on any roads around the area as this causes huge traffic problems for other visitors and locals.
Watch an aerial video of Porthcurno, Cornwall
This aerial video of Porthcurno captures its breathtaking beauty from above, showcasing the striking turquoise waters, pristine sandy beach, and rugged cliffs.
