Swanpool’s sheltered location and calm waters – which are protected from the wind in most directions – makes it ideal for the safe launch of small sailing boats and paddle craft. Numerous rocky coves and secret beaches can be explored by kayak or by coasteering around the bay, opening up parts of Cornwall other holidaymakers just cannot reach.

Just inland is Swanpool’s nature reserve, a nice place to for a leisurely stroll or to feed the ducks. The pool itself is a brackish lagoon (which means it’s a mix of salt and fresh water) and is the only place in the UK where you’ll find a Trembling Sea Mat, a rare form of microscopic animal that has made Swanpool a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

There is a host of coastal wildlife to enjoy in and around the beach, including our resident pair of swans. Our watersports activities have little or no impact on the environment, so you might even be lucky enough to spot seals, dolphins or basking sharks who aren’t threatened by your presence as you paddle or sail around the bay.

Although Swanpool is close to the centre of Falmouth, with its restaurants, shops and leisure amenities, the beach itself is remarkably unspoilt, with a real sense of peace and old-fashioned seaside charm, complete with beach huts and the world famous (in Cornwall, at least) quirky ice-creams.

The latter are provided by an excellent beach café along with warming hot chocolate, mouth-watering tasted sarnies, and more-ish home-made cakes. If you fancy something more substantial, visit Indaba Fish on the Beach, a restaurant that has stunning views over Swanpool bay. It is a great spot to while away a relaxing evening after a day on the water.

For directions to Swanpool Beach, click here [multimap link]