01326 574270
Categories: Christmas and New Year in Cornwall, Porthleven
Stormy seas are a regular and spectacular event in Cornwall in the winter months. Towns, particularly in West Cornwall, are battered by large waves and high winds every year. The drama of the huge ocean swell is mesmerising and brings many visitors to our seaside towns to take in the site.
Take a look at four of the best places to watch the drama unfold in West Cornwall.
Porthleven is one of the most spectacular sites for storm watching and is featured regularly on international news. The Atlantic
swell crashes over the harbour wall and onto the beach, offering a completely different atmosphere to the family friendly beach of the summer months. Walk along the cliffs toward Loe Bar, to take in views towards the Lizard and the waves crashing in the distance.
Shelter in The Ship Inn overlooking the harbour pier, get close to the action and grab a coffee in front of the fire on comfy sofas at Nauti-but-Ice (enter in between waves!) or book into one of our holiday cottages with a view of the sea to keep cosy and warm while watching from your window.
Sennen Cove, near to Lands End, is our second location for watching the rollers come in. Watch from the safety of the top car park or drive into the village to get into the thick of it. If you park at the far car park in Sennen village you can take a walk up the cliffs to the beautiful and stormy views over to the lighthouse at Land’s End.
Prefer watching from indoors? Take a seat overlooking the beach at Sunset Beach Bar. Or, for a cosy hideaway on the promenade, try Sennen Cove Cafe
The very high cliffs above Porthcurno beach give spectacular views of the Atlantic. Park at Porthcurno beach car park and walk along the South West Coast path towards Logan Rock for spectacular views. In big storms it is probably better to avoid the beach and go up to the Minack Theatre café and enjoy a proper cream tea.
Just half an hour from Porthleven, is the remote and extremely beautiful, Lizard Point. On a stormy day there is no better place to be than the Polpeor Cafe. If you don’t fancy walking the cliffs then this is a lovely, friendly cafe to enjoy the storm from inside.
A word of warning! The waves get very big and the winds are high. It is easy to loose footing on the cliff paths and even the strongest of us can get blown over. If you are walking, wear sturdy footwear and a waterproof coat. Don’t take any chances on our cliff paths.
If you’re in Porthleven and want to witness storms firsthand, exercise caution and prioritise safety. Be aware of the risks associated with stormy weather, such as high winds and rough seas. Stay away from exposed areas and cliffs, and follow any local safety guidelines or warnings.
Remember, storms can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous, so it’s essential to prioritise your safety when engaging in storm watching activities.