Love a coastal walk? Then St Austell is the right place.
There are so many beautiful coastal walks in this area, which take in some of Cornwall’s prettiest harbour villages.
Here’s a selection of our favourite coastal hikes near St Austell.
Exploring the Best Coastal Hikes in St Austell
There’s a great choice of footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes around St Austell. Inland, there are the clay pit trails and wooded rural pathways, but we’ll save those for another day and head straight for the coast.
The magnificent South West Coast Path makes coastal hiking in Cornwall easy. We don’t mean that the routes aren’t challenging, but rather, that you’ll encounter clearly marked and well maintained paths all around Cornwall’s coast. Other footpaths intersect with the SWCP, so you can easily create a nice circular route.
When you set out on a coastal walk, it’s not just about the challenge of the hike or getting from A to B. It’s about admiring the view, stopping to look at the glorious coastal plants alongside the footpath, breathing in that sea air… One of the best things is straying from the path for a refreshing paddle or reviving picnic on a new-found beach.
Feeling keen to get going? Here are a few of our favourite coastal walks near St Austell.
Hike 1: Porthpean Beach to Carlyon Bay
This pretty two-mile walk follows the coast path between the two beaches. It takes you through pretty Charlestown, an unspoilt harbour village that’s a popular film location.
It’s about 2 miles from The Cornwall to Porthpean beach. You can make this part of your walk, or drive to Porthpean car park (bring coins – you can’t always get a signal to use the app).
Once you’ve reached Porthpean Beach, it’s as simple as picking up the SWCP at the north eastern side of the bay. You’ll walk through trees and close to an ancient hillfort, before the path descends to Charlestown.
Pause here to admire the tall ships and period architecture, or become completely distracted by the Shipwreck Treasure Museum. After Charlestown, pick up the path again, which takes you through more woodlands until you reach the two-mile long Carlyon Bay.
It’s a pleasant short walk, which is just four miles in total if you return along the same route.
Hike 2: Charlestown to Mevagissey
If you want to enjoy a good afternoon’s hike that’s moderately challenging, try this 7.5 mile walk, which takes you from lovely Charlestown to the popular harbour village of Mevagissey.
For this walk, park in Charlestown (there’s a choice of places), then pick up the coast path in the other direction from the first walk, south west. Instead of retracing your footsteps, stop for a pint or cream tea in one of Meva’s many welcoming places, and catch the bus back to your car in Charlestown. The bus takes about half an hour – a lot quicker than your four-hour walk!
When you leave Charleston, you’ll pass through old woodlands and an ancient fort before arriving in Porthpean Beach, a good spot for a quick cuppa and a snack. West of Porthpean, the paths climbs up the coast for some incredible sea views. There’s a fair bit of up-and-downing along this stretch, but you’re always rewarded by the incredible scenery.
Take a break at sandy Pentewan Beach, before setting out on the last section towards Mevagissey. There are facilities here if you need them, and on a hot day, the clear water is perfect for a cooling paddle. A bit more gradient to tackle, then you’ll arrive in Mevagissey, with its outer and inner harbours, and array of winding streets.
Hike 3: Gorran Haven and Portmellon circular walk
You’ll need to park in Gorran Haven to enjoy this pleasant, six-mile circular walk, which is about ten miles from The Cornwall. The moderate route takes in some stunning coastline as well as the West Bodrugan Woods nature reserve.
Leave the narrow streets of Gorran Haven for the cliff path, heading north east up the coast. Walk around Turbot Point and cross Chapel Point to Portmellon. Here the sea comes right up to the road, so try to catch this part of the walk at low tide, so you can actually see the beach.
From here, you head inland along a valley and the wooded nature reserve, taking in St Goran parish church. Keep following the footpath until you get back to the village (or the Barley Sheaf…)
Cornish Coastal Walks: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to go hiking in St Austell?
Fine weather is always a bonus! The best times of year in terms of both weather and busyness are late spring and early autumn.
Are the coastal hikes in St Austell suitable for beginners?
The first walk is a relatively easy one. If you’re new to walking, try one of St Austell’s inland walks first, such as the nearby Pentewan Trail, which has beautifully maintained paths and is mostly flat.
What equipment do I need for hiking in St Austell?
This is Cornwall, so pack for all weathers! Sun hat, sun block, shades, waterproof… There are plenty of cafes and pubs along the SWCP, but take a bottle of water and snacks just in case. If you’re heading inland, a map is good, as you might not always get a signal on your smartphone.
Are there any safety precautions that hikers should take when hiking in St Austell?
Wear the right clothes and pack for sudden changes in the weather (see above!). Please tell someone where you’ll be going and give a rough ETA (many hikers tell our Reception team, for example). Take your phone, but be aware that you won’t always get a signal in remote areas.
Cornwall is dotted with disused mines – and mineshafts. There’s a reason why we stick to the paths when we’re walking around St Austell! If you leave the SWCP to go to the beach or find a picnic spot, stick to clear and obvious paths. Keep your pooch on a lead.
Can I bring my dog on the hikes in St Austell?
You know your dog best, and know what sort of terrain and length of walk they’ll manage. Keep them on their lead along all coastal footpaths, and please pick up after them. Be mindful of grazing animals and wildlife along the path, and please abide by any local signs about livestock. If you’re planning on visiting beaches along the way, find out first whether they’re dog-friendly beaches. For more information about coastal hiking with dogs, check out the SWCP website.
Are there any guided tours of the coastal hikes in St Austell?
There are several local guides who offer individual and group walking tours in Cornwall. Please speak to the team at Reception to find out more, or check with St Austell Tourist Information Centre.
The Cornwall: The Best Base for Coastal Walks
We’re so lucky here at The Cornwall, having so many beautiful walks on our doorstep. Our hotel and ledges make the perfect base for your Cornish walking holiday: take a look at our website to find out more.