The best tidal pools in Cornwall
Cornwall has always been known for its beautiful coastline and family-friendly beaches, which can be enjoyed not just in the warmer months but throughout the whole year.
However, found between the rocks and cliffs are some truly incredible Cornwall tidal pools, which can provide a safe place to splash, take a gentle swim, or just a bit of seaside exploring.
These natural saltwater pools can be found all along the Cornish coast, offering safe, calm spots for little ones to splash, explore and build confidence in the water. They’re perfect for those in-between times when the tide’s out, the beach is busy, or you just want a quiet corner to enjoy the water together.
In this guide, you will find a list of some of the best tidal pools, which can be explored when on caravan holidays in Cornwall.
Top Tidal Pools in Cornwall
- Millendreath Sea Pool
- Bude Sea Pool
- Trevone Natural Sea Pool
- Jubilee Pool, Penzance
- Mousehole Rock Pool
- Treyarnon Rock Pool
- Porthtowan Rock Pool
- Chapel Pool, Polperro
Millendreath Sea Pool
Millendreath Sea Pool is the perfect option if you want a tidal pool just minutes from Looe. Set at the edge of Millendreath Beach, this man-made pool fills naturally with seawater and creates a calm, shallow space ideal for paddling or a gentle family dip.
It’s especially popular with families who want something safe and easy to enjoy without travelling far, and the sheltered valley setting gives it a really relaxed feel. The best time to visit is close to high tide, when the pool has plenty of water and is easiest to use. With parking, a nearby café and a quiet beach right beside it, Millendreath is an excellent choice for a simple seaside outing that doesn’t involve a long drive.
Bude Sea Pool
Bude Sea Pool is one of Cornwall’s best-known tidal pools and a perfect spot for families wanting a safe and memorable dip. Nestled at the edge of Summerleaze Beach, this semi-natural pool offers calm, sheltered saltwater that’s ideal for paddling, swimming, or simply cooling off during the summer.
To have the best experience, you should look at visiting during mid to low tide, as this offers the best conditions, and is when the Bude Sea Pool is fully visible and easy to access. Children will love spotting tiny fish, crabs and other marine life that settle in the shallow edges, offering a gentle introduction to Cornwall’s coastal ecosystems.
After your swim, Summerleaze’s wide sandy beach, beach cafés and easy access to Bude’s town centre make it an excellent location for a full family day out. Just remember to supervise young swimmers, check tide times and be mindful of slippery rocks around the pool.
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Trevone Natural Sea Pool
Trevone Natural Sea Pool is a quieter spot that often gets overlooked, as it is tucked into the rocks beside Trevone Bay. The pool fills at high tide and leaves behind shallow water that’s great for kids to splash about in.
It’s best to visit around low tide, when the pool is fully revealed and easy to reach, and you’ll usually be able to spot small fish, little crabs and the odd anemone drifting in the shallow end. With Trevone’s sandy beach, coastal paths and picnic-friendly views just a short wander away, it’s an easy stop during a day out near Padstow.
Jubilee Pool, Penzance
Jubilee Pool is one of Cornwall’s most famous tidal swimming spots, and for good reason too. As one of the UK’s largest and most striking outdoor pools, it’s an excellent choice for families who like plenty of space to swim and splash about. A part of the pool is also geothermally heated, which stays warm year-round, making it perfect for those colder beach days. However, you will need to book tickets to visit the Jubilee Pool in advance, and it can get booked up during the warmer months, especially the geothermal pool.
Mousehole Rock Pool
Mousehole Rock Pool is a charming little pool that’s perfect for families. Sheltered between the rocks at low tide, it creates a shallow, calm space where little ones can safely paddle, play, and look for tiny sea creatures.
It’s small, simple, and feels a bit like discovering your own little seaside corner. With the village of Mousehole just a short stroll away for ice creams and pasties, Mousehole Rock Pool is ideal for a gentle, low-stress coastal stop.
Treyarnon Rock Pool
Treyarnon Rock Pool is a favourite among families who love a bit of adventure. Found on the northern side of Treyarnon Bay, this large natural pool comes alive at low tide, offering clear, still water and loads of opportunities for rock pooling.
It’s a brilliant mixture of swimming and exploring, and the surrounding beach gives you plenty of space for a picnic or a rest after your dip. If you’re travelling near the area, Treyarnon Rock Pool is well worth the detour.
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Porthtowan Rock Pool
Porthtowan’s rock pool is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away on the quiet eastern side of the beach. You have to wait for low tide to see it at its best, but once exposed, the tidal pool is a sheltered spot with plenty of small sea creatures to discover, and it is usually an option that often flies under the radar.
Chapel Pool, Polperro
Polperro has a small, scenic pool hidden within its rugged shoreline, which is perfect for a quiet splash after wandering through the village. Polperro tidal pool is a little trickier to get to, as you have to descend some steep stairs, so it may be better suited to those with older children or adults travelling alone.
FAQS
When is the best time to visit tidal pools in Cornwall?
The best time of year to visit a tidal pool in Cornwall would be during the warmer months, from spring to summer, but if you are an avid wild swimmer, then they can still be enjoyed during the cooler months.
What marine life can I find in Cornwall’s rock pools?
Tidal pools in Cornwall are teeming with marine wildlife such as crabs, fish, sea anemones, limpets, prawns and a variety of seaweed.
How to stay safe in tidal pools?
While tidal pools are generally safe and family-friendly, it’s essential to take a few precautions. Always check tide times before visiting to avoid getting cut off by rising water, as well as seeing if there is a lifeguard on duty and ensuring you are supervising your children closely, as rocks can be slippery and pools may have uneven depths.
Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes to prevent injuries, and ensure you have a first-aid kit on hand just in case.
Our Cornwall holiday park in Looe is the perfect base for exploring these tidal pools and the coast; you may even stumble on hidden tidal pools when exploring the shore. Book your holiday at Tencreek Holiday Park and enjoy all that Cornwall has to offer.
