Introduction to Constantine Bay Cornwall
Beautiful Constantine Bay has a reputation for being one of the best surf beaches in Cornwall thanks to its rocky reef break at the South end of the beach. Not only this but with rockpools a-plenty and a network of sand dunes providing the habitat for all manner of flora and fauna, nature fans can explore to their heart’s content.
Constantine Bay is a dog-friendly beach meaning the whole family can enjoy sunny beach days and wild winter walks all year round. This beach has lifeguard cover from May until October so, even though there are dangerous rip tides in places, you can swim and paddle safely between the flags and enjoy the crystal-clear waters for which Connies is famed.
Things to Do in Constantine Bay, Cornwall
There is a wealth of things to do in Constantine Bay! Treyarnon Bay is just a short walk around the headland, whilst beautiful Booby’s Bay to the North of the beach is popular with surfers all year round. Whilst Constantine Bay still feels beautifully remote and untouched, it has everything you need for a great day out. There is a large car park (only open in peak season) which can get rather busy in summer so you’ll have to arrive early on sunny days to guarantee a space.
You can get your caffeine fix from the little van selling barista coffee and homebaked treats overlooking the bay, and there is also a quirky beach cafe with toilets and a shop. At the top of the hill in the hamlet of Constantine Bay itself sits Constantine Bay Stores which has been selling delicious farm produce, fine wines and luxury provisions since 1925. The perfect place to pick up picnic snacks before hitting the beach! There is also a surf shop where you can get your wetsuits, sunglasses, t-shirts and everything you need for a fun day at the beach.
Learn to Surf with MFD Surf School
If you’re looking to learn to surf at Constantine Bay then MFD Surf School will ensure you learn the ropes of this thrilling sport under the careful guidance of experienced surf instructors. They offer a safe and fun learning environment, with surf lessons for adults and children of all ages either in small groups or on a one-to-one basis depending on your needs.
They are a mobile surf school so even on days when the conditions aren’t suitable at Constantine, you can still get your surf fix from one of the neighbouring beaches (Harlyn Bay, Treyarnon, Porthcothan or Boobys Bay). If a relaxing cruisey water-top adventure is more your style, MFD Surf School also offers stand-up paddleboard lessons for all ages and levels.
Walk the Coast to Trevose Head Lighthouse
When it comes to coastal walks, there’s something mystical about the presence of a lighthouse. Starting from Constantine Bay, you can embark on an invigorating 2.5-mile walk up to Trevose Head to see the lighthouse and all the other notable sights along the way. Trevose Head Lighthouse offers a glimpse into maritime heritage and the rich seafaring history in this corner of the world. Definitely one to add to your list of things to do at Constantine Bay!
Walk the whole length of Constantine Bay towards Boobys Bay, where you’ll access the cliff path and stride onwards past Mother Ivey’s Bay and towards Trevose Head. The coast is beautifully wild and rugged on this walk, and you’ll see Padstow lifeboat station and breathtaking ocean views out across the Quies. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and seals, and if you’re lucky you may even spot a Cornish chough pecking about in the scrubland.
Play Golf at Trevose Head Golf & Country Club
If you’re a keen golfer then you’ll no doubt have heard of Trevose Head Golf Club – one of the UK’s finest links courses. The golf course was created in 1925 by famous golf course architect Harry Colt and now has 3 courses to choose from; the Championship Course, the newer Headland Course, and a short course for those starting out in the game. There’s also a bar and restaurant for sitting back and admiring those coastal views once your game is done.
Take a Bike Ride on the Camel Trail
Not far from Constantine Bay is the famous Camel Trail. This beautiful scenic bike ride trail stretches for 18 miles from Padstow to Wenfordbridge, taking you along the Padstow estuary and beyond. Cycling or walking the Camel Trail is magical in all seasons, but summer is our favourite with a stop off at the Camel Trail Tea Garden near Wadebridge for a freshly-caught crab sandwich paired with a cold drink.
If you don’t own a bike, you can rent various bikes from electric to tandem bikes from Camel Trail Cycle Hire or one of the other hire points along the way. If you don’t want to do the whole length, you can stop or start at Padstow or Wadebridge to make the route shorter and more attainable for little legs.
Go Karting at St Eval Go Kart Circuit
Just 5 miles inland of Constantine Bay is the village of St Eval. Not only does this quirky village have a candle factory, a chocolate factory and a 4-acre wildflower meadow, but it also boasts Cornwall’s largest and fastest outdoor 1300m Go-Kart track. Whilst the main track is perfect for over 7s to burn some rubber, there is also a smaller track for 3-6yr olds, and plenty of fun is to be had by grown-ups too! A great day out for all weathers.
Walk to Porthcothan Bay
Just two miles around the coast from Constantine Bay you’ll find the charming Porthcothan Bay. This beautiful family-friendly, sheltered beach is backed by grassy dunes and is the hidden gem of the seven bays. At low tide the beach extends out to secret beaches, hidden coves, rock pools and lagoons meaning that there’s always something new to discover.
You can walk from Constantine Bay around the coast to Treyarnon and on to Porthcothan in around 45 minutes (depending on pace and how often you stop to marvel at the views!). Reward yourself with a delicious Cornish ice cream once you reach your destination from the friendliest shop around, Porthcothan Bay Stores.
Eat at The Pig, Harlyn Bay
Just a short stroll from Constantine Bay is The Pig; a hotel and restaurant where an obsession with home-grown produce means you’ll be enjoying delicious food made from ingredients sourced no further than a 25-mile radius from Harlyn Bay.
The restaurant sits inside one of Cornwall’s most historic houses dating back to the 15th century and it’s jam-packed with quirky features and oodles of character. In summer months there’s also the laid-back al fresco Lobster Shed where you can look forward to the day’s freshest catch of wood-roasted fresh lobster, chargrilled steak, and BBQd veggies, all finished off with an old-school ice cream sundae.
Wildlife Boat Trips
Witness incredible marine wildlife on our Cornwall boat trips, offering unrivalled views of the breathtaking Cornish coastline. Our wildlife watching Cornwall boat trips promise an unforgettable adventure for you, your family, and friends.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with us and explore the natural beauty that North Cornwall has to offer. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the sea in a way you’ve never imagined and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
FAQs
Can You Swim at Constantine Bay?
Constantine Bay boasts crystal-clear waters and is a great spot for swimming, just be sure to swim between the flags so that you don’t get swept into the rip tide. There are lifeguard patrols during the summer months to ensure a safe environment for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Is Constantine Beach Dog-Friendly?
Constantine Bay is dog-friendly all year around making it a perfect spot for long dog walks, games of fetch, and for sniffing out adventures in the dunes. There is even a box of tennis balls at the entrance to the beach (donated by a local dog-loving family) to keep your four-legged friends’ tails wagging all day long.
Where Do You Park for Constantine Bay?
If you are extremely fortunate and arrive early morning you may be able to park right near the beach at Constantine Beach Cafe. However, there are only about six of these parking spots available, so your best bet is to park in the designated car parking field which is a few hundred yards up the hill from the beach (and only open in summer). It is approximately £5 to park at Constantine Bay for the day – simply give your cash to the car park attendant who will be sitting in a charming old vintage gypsy caravan just inside the car park gate. If you don’t mind the ten-minute walk across the cliffs from Treyarnon Bay, you can also use the Treyarnon Beach car park which takes payment by card.
Are There Toilets At Constantine Bay?
Yes, there are toilets at Constantine Bay! They are located by Constantine Beach Cafe near the entrance to the beach and cost 20p, so don’t forget your coins.
