RNLI Lifeguards to Patrol 19 Cornwall Beaches Over October Half-Term

RNLI lifeguards will be back on 19 beaches across Cornwall this October half-term, providing safety cover from Saturday 25th October to Sunday 2nd November, with patrols running daily between 10am and 5pm. The return marks the final stretch of the 2025 lifeguard season before it ends for the year.

Beaches with cover this half-term

Lifeguards will be on duty at Tregonhawke, Praa Sands, Crantock, Fistral, Towan, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Porthtowan, Chapel Porth, Perranporth, Gwithian North, Hayle Towans, Porthmeor, Sennen, Constantine, Harlyn, Polzeath, Widemouth and Summerleaze.

Currently, Perranporth, Fistral, Porthmeor and Sennen are already covered full time and will continue patrols throughout the school holidays.

Advice from the RNLI

Henry Saddler-Irvine, RNLI Regional Lifeguard Lead for the South West, said:

‘Every year we see the October half-term bring people to the coast to enjoy the beaches, and so we’d like to remind people that if you are wishing to visit a beach, to choose one of the 23 beaches where lifeguards are still on duty. If you’re swimming and bodyboarding, be sure to do so between the red and yellow flags. If you’re unsure about anything, just ask an RNLI lifeguard.

‘Conditions can be challenging at this time of year. Autumn storms, like that we saw of Storm Amy at the beginning of October, bring large swells and an increased risk to people on the coast. We will also see spring tides towards the beginning of the half term week, which means faster moving currents and the potential for tidal cut offs. Please check tide times before you set out for the day and leave yourself plenty of time to access your route before the tide comes in.

‘If you do find yourself in trouble in the water, remember the RNLI’s advice to not panic and float to live – lie flat on your back with your arms outstretched, ears submerged and allow your body to adapt to the water before calling for help.’

Season ends 2nd November

After Sunday 2nd November, there will be no lifeguard cover on any Cornish beaches until the service restarts in spring 2026.

The RNLI advises beachgoers to check weather and tide conditions before visiting, tell someone where they’re going, and always carry a means of calling for help. If you see someone in difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

📷RNLI lifeguards at Perranporth beach, Cornwall - Credit: Peter Hancock