Surf Mawgan Porth, Cornwall, England
Rupert Barry, October 14, 2011
![](https://www.zafiri.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/mawgan_porth_cornwall_surfing_rupert_barry-960x510.jpg)
Mawgan Porth is a small village on the north coast of Cornwall, six miles up the coast from Newquay. It’s a great place for those who want to stay at one of the quieter beach spots, whilst maintaining quick access to renowned UK surf breaks such as Watergate Bay and Constantine.
Surfing
Mawgan Porth faces west with a beach break, working best on a south-west swell and light offshore winds. Board rental and lessons are available at King Surf, located right on the beach amongst the shops. With Watergate Bay a two mile drive towards Newquay, and Constantine Bay is six miles in the other direction, you’ll have a variety of conditions to choose from if you base yourself at Mawgan Porth.
Coasteering
Mawgan Porth and the surrounding coastline have some sheltered coves and rock reefs making it a good place for coasteering. For local knowledge on tides and currents, go out with a guide from either Vertical Descent or Lusty Glaze, both based in the Newquay area.
Accommodation in Mawgan Porth
Just a few hundred metres from the beach is The Park which is good value and equipped with a wide variety of accommodation and facilities including recently built Eco Lodges and Terraces that sleep between four and twelve people. Alternatively there are the option of Yurts for smaller groups. Prices start from £650 per week and double during peak season. The range of facilities outside the self-catered accommodation includes a swimming pool and restaurant.
For those on a tighter budget or looking to camp in a rustic setting, Retorrick Mill is set in an idyllic setting, 10 minutes’ walk inland from the beach. Camping costs £8 per person per night, and there are also a handful of self-catered cottages and chalets. The site is nestled in a woodland and includes converted stables complete with 2 bunk rooms (ideal for surf clubs) and a bar that plays reggae music and serves different types of ciders. With a fire pit style BBQ and nights with surf movies, Retorrick Mill has a great vibe during peak season. To top it off, you can buy local sausages and eggs – perfect fuel for a good day out.
Amenities in Mawgan Porth
The village has a small row of shops, cafes, restaurants and delis for your food essentials. Camping essentials such as gas can also be bought in the village, and there are a number of small surf shops that stock equipment as well as a range of boards for hire.
The nearest train station to Mawgan Porth is Nequay, a 5-mile taxi ride away. Check out surf report before a trip at Magicseaweed. Additional information on adventure activities in Cornwall.