Polzeath is the perfect place to park up if you have a passion for the water
Located on Cornwall’s north coast, there is more to Polzeath than simply surfing. The beach itself is a nature reserve, so while in the water or on the stretch of sand make sure to watch out for playful dolphins, puffins and many other coastal birds.
A short walk around the bay, at low tide if you can catch it, or over the cliff’s coastal path brings you to Daymer bay. With calmer waters, Daymer bay is an ideal spot for swimmers and wind surfers and for newbies there are many schools offering advice, hire and instruction across this stretch of coast.
Just a short walk and a ferry ride from the lively village of Padstow is another Cornish icon, the slightly larger town of Padstow. A charming fishing port and go to foodie destination, it is well worth the trip. Maybe just for a bite to eat at Rick Stein’s Fish & Chips.
If you struggle to find a spot to park up your van there are a few options close to the water in Polzeath. Just remember that the beach itself disappears almost completely at high tide!
A small car park next by the sand offers 24 hour parking with no size restriction and in the winter, between November and March, this comes in at just £2.00 per day. Failing that, there are two campsites located wither side of the bay. The Tristram park is best for avid surfers as it is located just on top of the cliff with direct access to the beach. Southwinds is a short way outside the main village but there are some stunning views to be found from this spot on top of the hill overlooking the sea.
If you are planning a drive down, check out tide times here.
