Porthleven Harbour to Praa Sands Clifftop Trail

Discover the charming fishing village of Porthleven and its dramatic coastal surroundings on this scenic clifftop walk. This route combines working harbour views, golden sandy beaches, and spectacular Atlantic Ocean vistas. Porthleven is one of Cornwall's most picturesque harbours with colourful fishing boats and excellent seafood restaurants. The walk takes you past the historic lighthouse, along dramatic cliffs, and down to the beautiful Praa Sands beach - a Blue Flag award-winning beach perfect for swimmers and surfers.

Walking Directions:

Stage 1: Porthleven Harbour Circuit Start at Porthleven Harbour car park Walk towards the harbour front with the water on your right Follow the promenade past the fishing boats and restaurants Walk around the harbour edge to the historic Porthleven Lighthouse Continue past the lighthouse following the coastal path Climb the rocky path upwards away from the harbour Reach the cliff-top viewpoint overlooking the harbour

Stage 2: Porthleven to Rinsey Head From the cliff-top, continue east along the coastal path Keep the sea on your right as you walk along the cliffs Pass Porthleven Head with excellent views back to the harbour Follow the well-marked path through coastal grassland Watch for seabirds including razorbills and guillemots The path descends slightly then climbs again Arrive at Rinsey Head with panoramic ocean views

Stage 3: Rinsey Head to Praa Sands Continue along the coastal path heading east The cliffs become more dramatic with stunning rock formations Follow the path as it descends towards Praa Sands You'll see the golden beach below you Continue down the sandy path towards the beach Arrive at Praa Sands beach - excellent spot for a swim or lunch break

Return Journey: Praa Sands to Porthleven From Praa Sands beach, climb back up the coastal path Retrace your steps back past Rinsey Head Continue west along the cliffs back towards Porthleven Pass through the coastal grassland Descend back to the harbour area Return to the car park