Whitsand Bay Beach Tours and Activities

Whitsand Bay Beach which includes general coastal views
Whitsand Bay Beach featuring a sandy beach and a coastal town as well as a family
Whitsand Bay Beach
Whitsand Bay Beach featuring a sandy beach and mist or fog
Whitsand Bay Beach which includes a sandy beach and flowers


Relax on this well-hidden beach that offers miles of sand, stretching all the way from Portwrinkle to Rame Head.

Soak up the sun on Whitsand Bay Beach. Walk the sands and take in the scenery or swim out in the sea. Grab a board and go surfing or dive among the submerged wrecks hidden in the bay.

Whitsand Bay Beach is actually made up of four sand beaches which join together at low tide. In 1859 the bay was identified as a weak point in the military defenses of Plymouth and two forts were built here. Find these fortifications here today Fort Trengantle is still in use by the military, while the Polhawn Battery was sold in 1927 and is now a hotel. Today the beach is popular with surfers, divers and walkers.

Head down the cliff paths from the parking lots at either end of the beach to reach the sands of the bay. Stretch out on the sand and relax in the sun. Go for a walk along the beach and peer into rock pools to see what you can find. Cool off with a dip in the Cornish Sea, but be aware that there are strong currents farther out.

Bring your surfboard and hit the waves or or head below them on a diving trip. Out in the bay you’ll find a number of shipwrecks forming artificial reefs. Explore the HMS Scylla, a former navy frigate which was scuppered in 2004. Nearby you’ll find the remains of the James Eagan Layne, a U.S. liberty ship sunk by the Germans in World War II. You can also find the remains of the HMS A7, an early Royal Navy submarine. These are classified as controlled sites, however, and require special permission to dive.

Whitsand Bay Beach is 24 miles (38 kilometers) from Plymouth by car. Park at either end of the bay, near Tregantle Fort or at Sharrow Point. Alternatively, take the Torpoint ferry 7 miles (11 kilometers) from Plymouth. Access to the beach can be difficult, with steep and uneven paths. The bay is dog friendly. Be aware that the beach is closed during Tregantle’s firing range practice and that the ocean has strong rip currents.

Popular places to visit


Top Whitsand Bay Beach Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Thanckes Lodge -  3 Bedroom, 6 Sleeper Bungalow

Thanckes Lodge - 3 Bedroom, 6 Sleeper Bungalow

Torpoint
Thanckes Lodge - 3 Bedroom, 6 Sleeper Bungalow
Fulmar - Beachside House with Terrace Hot Tub & Fantastic Views

Fulmar - Beachside House with Terrace Hot Tub & Fantastic Views

Portwrinkle
Fulmar - Beachside House with Terrace Hot Tub & Fantastic Views
Luxury  Beach House Rental with Hot Tub, 30 meters to Beach

Luxury Beach House Rental with Hot Tub, 30 meters to Beach

Port wrinkle
Luxury Beach House Rental with Hot Tub, 30 meters to Beach
The Fish Cellars - Luxury Holiday Cottage

The Fish Cellars - Luxury Holiday Cottage

Portwrinkle
The Fish Cellars - Luxury Holiday Cottage
Lodge in Whitsand Bay with Hot Tub & Sea Views

Lodge in Whitsand Bay with Hot Tub & Sea Views

Torpoint
Lodge in Whitsand Bay with Hot Tub & Sea Views
Delightful, Dog-Friendly Cottage in Millbrook, Cornwall near the coast

Delightful, Dog-Friendly Cottage in Millbrook, Cornwall near the coast

Millbrook
Delightful, Dog-Friendly Cottage in Millbrook, Cornwall near the coast
The Halfway House Pub and Kitchen

The Halfway House Pub and Kitchen

3 out of 5
Polbathic, Torpoint, England
The Halfway House Pub and Kitchen
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Whitsand Bay Beach

At Whitsand Bay Beach, visitors can enjoy stunning coastal walks along the dramatic cliffs, take part in wine tours showcasing local vineyards, and indulge in culinary adventures featuring fresh seafood. This picturesque spot is perfect for a relaxing city break, offering various beach tours that highlight the area’s natural beauty and rich history. Experience the perfect blend of nature and gastronomy in this beautiful corner of the UK.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Drake Circus, only 9.7km away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the Tavistock Pannier Market and Country Cheeses, both 24.1km away, for unique gifts and local delicacies.

Recreation

Experience luxury at Whitsand Bay Hotel Country Club, where you can unwind in a serene atmosphere. For relaxation, visit Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, offering beautiful scenery and tranquillity. Alternatively, indulge in the exclusive amenities at China Fleet Country Club, perfect for your wellness retreat.

Adventure

At Adventure Bay Surf School, experience the thrill of surfing in vibrant waters, located 3.2km from Whitsand Bay Beach. For a scenic hike, explore the South West Coast Path Section 35 Trailhead, just 1.6km away. For more excitement, head to Kartworld, 12.9km away, for an adrenaline-pumping karting experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whitsand Bay Beach with a visit to the Theatre Royal in Plymouth for captivating performances, or enjoy a thrilling evening at Adrenalin Quarry's arcade. For a relaxed film night, Cineworld Plymouth offers the perfect cinema experience.

Find the best attractions near Whitsand Bay Beach

Whitsand Bay Beach offers a variety of attractions for tourists, including stunning beaches, historic houses, and historic forts. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture, enjoy outdoor experiences, and take in breathtaking views of the bay. With nearby attractions and activities suited for every type of traveller, Whitsand Bay Beach is a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and exploration in the beautiful English countryside.

  • Polhawn Fort: A historic fort that offers a glimpse into the region's military past, Polhawn Fort is nestled 4.8km from Whitsand Bay Beach. Immerse yourself in its captivating architecture and enjoy the stunning coastal views, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts.
  • Port Eliot House and Gardens: Located 4.8km away, this historic house boasts exquisite gardens and rich cultural heritage. Explore the beautifully maintained grounds and marvel at the impressive architecture, providing a tranquil escape into nature and history.
  • Torpoint Ferry: Adventure awaits at the Torpoint Ferry, situated 6.4km from the beach. Experience the thrill of crossing the water while enjoying picturesque views, perfect for those looking to explore the outdoors and local coastal lifestyle.

Best time to go to Whitsand Bay Beach

The best time to visit Whitsand Bay Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Whitsand Bay Beach falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Whitsand Bay Beach falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
September58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Whitsand Bay Beach

To save money on your trip to Whitsand Bay Beach, consider visiting between November and January for lower accommodation rates, avoiding the pricier summer months. Booking on a Thursday is typically cheaper than on a Tuesday. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly stays, and filter for eco-certified options. Combine your accommodation, flights, and activities for further savings with package deals. Don’t forget to check for last-minute availability and select hotels that offer free cancellation. Exploring the beach and local walks are great free activities to enjoy while you're there.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Whitsand Bay Beach are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Whitsand Bay Beach is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Whitsand Bay Beach is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Whitsand Bay Beach accommodation with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia