Constantine Bay – Beach, dunes and coastal paths

Constantine Bay combines a wide sandy beach with a network of sand dunes. There are also coastal paths, rock pools and medieval remains. When planning a stay, it is worth considering the landscape and the different outdoor activities together: beach visits, walks and a trip to St Constantine’s Chapel and Well each have their own considerations.

Beach, dunes and protected area

Constantine Bay’s beach is wide and sandy; inland, it is bordered by a network of sand dunes. The dune system covers 80 hectares and has previously been successfully restored through fencing and planting. Constantine Bay also lies within the Trevose Head and Constantine Bay SSSI. At the beach, visitors can explore rock pools—a different way to experience this stretch of coast than walking along the coastal path.

There are clear restrictions on surfing: because of hidden rocks, dangerous rip currents and the steep drop-off on the beach at high tide, the beach is suitable only for experienced surfers. Caution is also advised when swimming because of strong rip currents. Check local conditions before entering the water.

Coastal paths with different route profiles

The South West Coast Path descends from Treyarnon Point to Constantine Bay beach, then climbs back up to the coastal path via wooden steps. The walk from Trethias Farm to Trevose Head is 6.1 miles (9.8 km) long and is described as moderate, fairly long and mostly level; it follows good footpaths. There is a bus service for the return journey. Another walking route to Mawgan Porth starts in Constantine Bay. Check the conditions for this route before setting off.

These routes offer different points to consider when planning: the route description for the section from Treyarnon Point includes the descent to the beach and the climb back up via steps. For the walk from Trethias Farm to Trevose Head, the length, difficulty, path conditions and a bus service for the return journey are specified.

St Constantine’s Chapel and Well

St Constantine’s Chapel and Well are medieval remains in the dunes of Constantine Bay. In the Middle Ages, the site was an important place of pilgrimage. The chapel consists of a tower at the west end, a nave, a chancel and a south aisle. These features give the historic site a clearly described layout; together with the holy well, they are among the site’s notable surviving features.

The ground is uneven. Grassy or sandy paths can be slippery when wet, and conditions may change with the weather and the state of the dunes. There is no public parking at the site itself; visitors should use a nearby public car park, such as the one in Constantine Bay. Follow local signs. There are no toilets, cafés or visitor buildings at the site; check local visitor information before travelling.

Golf and surf activities

The Headland Course is high above Constantine Bay, has nine holes and a par of 35. There is no need to book a tee time: play is on a “roll up and pay and play” basis through the golf shop.

Waves Surf School states that it is licensed by Cornwall Council to offer surfing activities at Constantine Bay. Before booking, check both its current licence and the availability of activities.

Getting there by bus

Bus route 556 stops in Constantine Bay. As bus routes and timetables can change, check current services before travelling. Bus route 556, which stops in Constantine Bay, is separate from the bus service for the return journey of the walk from Trethias Farm to Trevose Head.

Discover more destinations: Morval, Helston, Egloskerry, Rock, Withiel, Mylor Bridge, St Pinnock, Saint Tudy.

For the main travel overview: Cornwall.