< previous story || next story >

1. Blue Bar - Porthtowan
One of Cornwall's top beach bars. Favoured by surfers who frequent the popular Porthtowan waves, this place has everything a beach bar should. The walking isn't as impressive as at Gwithian but the views of the waves from the big bay windows makes up for any lack. With excellent food and an irresistible white chocolate mocha, this is a great place to read the papers, watch the waves and while away an afternoon.

Best thing: Laid back tunes, great surf action, pool table, cold Corona and that white chocolate mocha...

Beach Rd
East Cliff
Porthtowan
01209 890329
Opening times from February 2nd: Every day from 11am.

2. Sunset Surf Café - Hayle
This beachside Café and bar has amazing views of St Ives bay and Godrevy Lighthouse. Nestled amongst the dunes of Gwithian Towans, food, coffee's, beer & wine is served by a lively host of surfer style waiters. This laid back spot is quite small inside so it can get busy on a wet Sunday afternoon but with a steaming hot chocolate it is the perfect place to watch the kite surfers after walking the three mile stretch of golden sands.

Best thing: Watching the early winter sunset with a hot chocolate after a bracing walk along the dunes.

10, Gwithian Towans
Gwithian
Hayle
01736 752575
Opening times for February: Open throughout daylight hours every day except Wednesdays. (Weather dependant).

3. The Watering Hole - Perranporth
Quite literally a bar on the beach, The Watering Hole is situated at the foot of the dunes on this north coast beach. A five minute stroll will bring you to the sandy floors and buzzing atmosphere within. A popular venue for live music and their winter Sunday carvery, you can watch the action of the beach unfold at your feet. With a slightly Aussie feel, as you get blown in from the cold you will be greeted by a jovial atmosphere and the warmth of patio heaters fending off the north coast wind.

Best thing: I love the fact there is no road to it so everyone has to get out their cars and trudge across the beach - which they do whatever the weather!

Perranporth Beach
Perranporth
01872 572888
Winter opening times: Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 9am.

4. Porthminster Café - St Ives
This fabulous place tucked away at the back of Porthminster beach has one of the best terrace views in Cornwall. It not only serves delicious lunches, customers are welcome for tea and coffee from 11am. With chef's recommendation being his dark chocolate brule, served with a shot of espresso and scoop of homemade ice cream you can really treat yourself after a wander through St Ives' blessedly quiet winter streets.

Best thing: A visit to the Tate followed by a walk through St Ives, ending up at Porthminster Café with its incredible views, wonderful food and at this time of year, a gloriously empty beach on the doorstep.

Porthminster Beach
St Ives
01736 795352
Opening times: Open everyday from 11am every day except Mondays. Open for evening dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

5. Godrevy Café - Gwithian
Close to Sunset Surf on the Towans, this is another gem that shouldn't be left off anyone's winter beach bar trail. Located on the National Trust carpark at Godrevy Lighthouse, the setting is not quite as impressive as their rivals along the cliff, but their menu more than makes up for the shortfall. Sunday brunch is so popular there is often a queue at 10am. Vegetarians in particular should delight at the choice of veggie wraps, risotto and falafels. Sitting on their lovely raised deck with a slice of their scrumptious homemade cake is not to be missed.

Best thing: Within minutes you can be strolling a part of the coast famous for its seal population - after a piece of their fabulous carrot cake, walk towards the lighthouse to spot the sleek silvery heads bobbing in and out the waves.

Godrevy Cafe
Godrevy Towans
Gwithian
Hayle
TR27 5ED
Tel: 01736 757999

Chloe Wild