Long Rock Beach
NEED TO KNOW
Type of beach
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed on the beach east of the level crossing during July and August between 10am and 6pm. They are welcome on the beach all year round, but must be kept under effective control.
Lifeguard
There is RNLI lifeguard cover at the eastern end of the beach towards Marazion.
Beach cleaning
Parking
Nearest town
Postcode
OS grid reference
What3words
ABOUT
Situated in Mount’s Bay, Long Rock is a sandy beach with shingle that stretches from Marazion to Penzance, with stunning view of St Michael’s Mount. At the back of the beach are boulders and rocks that form sea defences and just beyond is the Great Western Railway line that connects Penzance to London. In the summer, the boulders come alive with wildflowers such as mallow, rock samphire, and sea pinks.
The large expanse of sand at Long Rock means it’s popular with holidaymakers and locals alike who visit to exercise their dogs, sunbathe, and walk. Unlike some of the other beaches in the area, Long Rock rarely gets busy so there’s plenty of room to build sandcastles, spread out with a picnic, or play some beach games. On calm days, the sea is safe for swimming and paddling as the water is shallow for a fairly long way out, although there is no lifeguard cover except at the eastern end of the beach, and children should always be supervised.
STAR SPECIES
At low tide, rockpools are exposed on both the left and right sides of the beach, with a variety of marine wildlife to discover, including crabs, prawns, and small fish. During high tide, the sea can cover the entire beach so check tide times before you go.
In winter, the remains of a shipwreck can sometimes be seen. Once thought to be the keel of a French brigantine, the Jeune Hortense, that ran aground in May 1888, recent investigations by the local newspaper have suggested that it is a more recent wreck; that of the Barnet, part of a team of salvage vessels that were attempting to refloat HMS Warspite at Prussia Cove in July 1950. During the operation, Barnet’s engine room flooded and she was abandoned and allowed to drift ashore.
Long Rock is an ideal spot for wind surfers, and kite surfers, in particularly beginners, due to the flat water and small, clean waves for riding and jumping, as well as a reef break that can be heavy towards low water. Kite surfers should be wary of the railway track though which is not far from the water at high tide.
Paddle boarding and kayaking are also popular, and towards the Marazion end of the beach is The Hoxton Special, a watersports centre which offers lessons and equipment hire.
Cornwall Swimming Horses use the beach at Long Rock to offer bespoke experiences including riding on the sand for experienced riders, and sea swimming for all levels of riders. Each swim is tailored to its rider’s needs and each horse is accompanied by a trained handler. Sessions are planned around tides and the weather so please check before you book.
The South West Coast Path, which is also used as a cycle path, runs along the beach parallel to the railway line and from here it’s possible to walk either west to Penzance or east to Marazion. The walk towards Marazion will take you to RSPB Marazion Marsh, Cornwall’s largest reedbed, which has recorded over 250 species of birds, 500 plants, 500 insects, and 18 mammals. Some of the rarer species include bitterns and aquatic warblers, and during late autumn and winter murmurations of starlings can be seen swooping across the sky as they gather to roost at night.
When you fancy a bit to eat, head to The Mexico Inn, a traditional village pub that’s been on the high street for over 200 years. Legend has it that the inn got its name from its first landlord, Bill Trewartha who spent some time in Mexico mining for silver. The menu changes with the seasons and offers a variety of traditional pub food and modern classics made from ingredients sourced from local suppliers as well as well-stocked bar that includes a selection of local ales and ciders.
The nearest toilets to Long Rock beach can be found at Penzance Railway Station, along the coastal path. There is a shop in Long Rock village but more shops, cafes, and restaurants can be found in nearby Penzance.
There is a pay and display car park with 100 spaces including disabled parking near the beach. Access to the beach from the car park is via the slipway but there are rocks at the bottom meaning it’s unsuitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. However, there are various other access points west of the car park from the sea wall with level access.
AMENITIES
