Rock Beach

Padstow

Rock Beach in Cornwall is a long stretch of golden sand along the Camel Estuary, popular for sailing, walking and enjoying stunning views across to Padstow.

Sandy

Seasonal

Yes

No

Rock Beach

Rock Beach, situated on the north coast of Cornwall along the Camel Estuary, is a stylish yet relaxed destination known for its scenic shoreline, soft sands and calm waters. A favourite for sailing enthusiasts, paddleboarders and walkers, the beach offers fantastic views across to Padstow and easy access to the South West Coast Path. Whether you’re hopping on the ferry, enjoying a day by the water, or exploring nearby eateries and boutiques, Rock Beach combines natural beauty with an upmarket coastal charm.

About Rock Beach

Rock Beach stretches along the eastern side of the Camel Estuary, offering a wide expanse of soft sand and calm, sheltered waters perfect for paddling, boating and stand-up paddleboarding. The beach is backed by sand dunes and bordered by a mix of luxury holiday homes, cafés and sailing clubs, giving it a laid-back yet upmarket feel. Popular with families, dog walkers and water sports enthusiasts, Rock Beach also serves as a gateway to nearby Daymer Bay and the scenic coastal path leading towards Polzeath. Its proximity to the passenger ferry to Padstow makes it a convenient and scenic spot to enjoy the best of both sides of the estuary.

Rock Beach is ideal for swimming thanks to its calm, estuary waters and gently sloping sand, making it a safe spot for families and casual paddlers. Although there are no lifeguards, the sheltered conditions and lack of large waves make it one of the safer beaches for a relaxed dip.

While Rock Beach isn’t a surf destination due to its protected location, it’s hugely popular for other water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing and water-skiing. Equipment hire and lessons are available nearby, and the calm estuary waters are perfect for beginners.

Public toilets are available near the beach and the car park, just a short walk from the waterfront. Facilities are basic but convenient for day visitors.

Rock Beach is more focused on water sports and scenic views than rockpooling, but small pools may appear further along the beach towards Daymer Bay at low tide. Those keen on exploring marine life might prefer neighbouring beaches for better rockpooling opportunities.

At low tide, the beach opens out dramatically, revealing a wide stretch of firm sand perfect for walking, ball games and picnics. It’s a great time to walk towards Daymer Bay or simply enjoy the extra space away from the water’s edge.

During high tide, the sandy space narrows, but the water becomes perfect for boating and paddling. It’s also the best time for launching water sports equipment, with easy access from the slipway and beach.

Rock Beach Address

Rock
Padstow
Cornwall
PL28 8QL

Map of Rock Beach

RockBeach

How do you get to Rock Beach

Rock Beach is easily reached on foot from nearby villages like St Minver and Daymer Bay via the scenic South West Coast Path. It’s also a popular walk from Polzeath, offering sweeping views of the Camel Estuary along the way.

If travelling by car, Rock is about a 15-minute drive from Wadebridge. There are several pay-and-display car parks near the beach, including one right by the waterfront. The postcode PL27 6LD will get you close to the main parking area.

The Western Greyhound 584 bus service runs between Wadebridge and Rock, stopping at key points in the village. From the nearest bus stop, it's just a short walk down to the beach and ferry slipway. Make sure to check seasonal bus schedules, as service frequency can vary.

One of the most scenic and convenient ways to reach Rock Beach is by passenger ferry from Padstow. Operating daily (weather permitting), the short ferry ride takes around 5–10 minutes across the Camel Estuary and drops you right on the sand near the centre of Rock. It’s a popular option for visitors wanting to explore both sides of the estuary without the need for a long drive.

Rock Beach General Information

Beach Type: Sandy

Dog Friendly: Seasonal

Public Toilets: Public toilets are available near the beach and the car park, just a short walk from the waterfront. Facilities are basic but convenient for day visitors.

Accessibility: Contact Local Council

Lifeguard Cover: No Lifeguard Cover

Rock Beach FAQs

Are there lifeguards at Rock Beach?2025-07-22T18:42:46+01:00

No, there are currently no lifeguards on duty at Rock Beach, so visitors should take extra care when swimming or enjoying water sports.

Are there public toilets at Rock Beach?2025-07-22T18:44:34+01:00

Yes, public toilets are available near the main beach area and close to the ferry slipway.

Can I get to Rock Beach from Padstow by ferry?2025-07-22T18:45:14+01:00

Yes, a passenger ferry runs regularly between Padstow and Rock, offering a scenic 5–10 minute ride across the Camel Estuary.

Can you swim at Rock Beach?2025-07-22T18:43:08+01:00

Yes, Rock Beach has calm estuary waters ideal for swimming and paddling, especially for families with younger children.

Is Rock Beach good for surfing?2025-07-22T18:43:30+01:00

No, due to its sheltered location within the estuary, Rock Beach doesn’t have surfable waves, but it’s excellent for paddleboarding and sailing.

Is there parking near Rock Beach?2025-07-22T18:43:59+01:00

Yes, there are pay-and-display car parks located within easy walking distance of the beach and village shops.

Weather At Rock

Check the weather forcast for Rock Beach. Check our weather forcast for the next few days.

Tide Times At Rock

Planning a beach day at Rock Beach? Don’t forget to check the tide times today! These are today's tides for Padstow

06 August 2025

Time Type Height
04:01 high 5.51m
10:28 low 2.47m
16:29 high 5.92m
22:57 low 2.2m

07 August 2025

Time Type Height
04:54 high 5.92m
11:17 low 2.03m
17:15 high 6.37m
23:43 low 1.74m

View full 7 day tide times.

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