Why the coast needs respect
The Cornish coast is beautiful, but it is also a natural environment with real hazards. Cliffs, strong tides, cold water and fast-changing weather catch out visitors and locals alike. Most outings pass without trouble, and a little preparation makes problems less likely. This article offers general guidance only. It cannot replace current local information, signs, or the instructions of lifeguards, coastguards and other officials.
Check conditions before you go
Start with the day’s forecast, including wind, rain, visibility and the state of the sea. A pleasant morning can turn into a wet and windy afternoon, and fog can reduce visibility on the cliffs in minutes. The same applies inland on high ground, as discussed in the notes on moorland weather. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return, and make sure your phone is charged, bearing in mind that signal can be patchy in coves and valleys.
Local sources are the best place for up-to-date information. These generally include beach and harbor notices, coastal path notices, local council pages, the national weather service, and lifeguard and rescue organizations. Conditions, closures and diversions change often, so check close to the day rather than relying on something you read long ago.
Tides
Tides are one of the most common sources of trouble. The sea rises and falls twice a day, and the range around Cornwall can be large. A beach that seems wide and safe at low water may disappear at high water, and some coves have no exit other than across sand that floods. People can be cut off by a rising tide at the foot of a cliff, on a rocky shelf or on a causeway before they realize it. Water also tends to arrive faster than expected in flat, gentle bays.
Learn the times of high and low water for the day, and allow a generous margin. The basics are explained under coastal tides, and practical advice on using published times appears under tide tables. A good habit is to know in advance how you would leave a beach, and to start back well before the tide turns.
Rip currents, swell and swimming
Surf beaches bring particular risks. Rip currents are channels of water that flow seaward and can pull swimmers away from the shore. They are explained under rip currents, along with the meaning of the flags used on lifeguarded beaches. In general terms, swim between the flags where lifeguards are on duty, and follow their instructions. If a beach has no flags or lifeguard, consider whether it is safe to swim at all.
Swell can also affect rocks and harbor walls. Large waves sometimes break much higher than people expect, and an occasional bigger wave can sweep over rocks, slipways and breakwaters. Fishing from rocks and exploring the foot of cliffs both carry this risk. Even on a calm day, a swell generated by a distant storm may arrive without local wind. Do not turn your back on the sea when standing near the edge of the water.
Sea water is cold for much of the year, and cold water can quickly sap strength. Supervise children closely, and keep clear of boat traffic and harbor entrances.
Cliff edges
Cliffs are unstable in places. The faces can crumble, and edges may be undercut without any sign from above. Processes behind this are described under cliff erosion. Fresh falls occur after heavy rain or storms, and cracks, bulges or slumped ground near the edge should be treated as warning signs.
Keep well back from edges, especially when it is windy, wet or slippery, and do not trust grass or crumbling soil that looks solid. Keep children and dogs close, and do not lean over to look down or to take photos. Stay on the marked path, and obey signs, fences and notices of diversions. Some paths are moved inland because the original route has been lost to erosion. In the dark or in poor visibility, the safest choice is usually not to walk exposed sections at all. Further background on the walking route is available under coast path.
Weather and clothing
Weather can change quickly, so wear layers and carry waterproofs even if the day starts clear. Sturdy footwear with good grip is helpful on slippery, uneven or rocky ground. Carry water and some food on longer walks, and remember that dusk comes earlier than many people expect outside high summer.
Old workings and wreck sites
Some parts of the coast carry remains of mining or other industry, including shafts and tunnels, some hidden by vegetation. Never enter old workings or go near open ground that looks disturbed, and keep dogs on leads where there may be hidden openings. See the guidance on mine site safety for more. The shoreline also has a long history of ships lost on rocks, and the reasons behind this are covered under hazardous coastline. Wreck stories are interesting, but wreck sites are often dangerous, and some are legally protected.
If something goes wrong
In an emergency on the coast, call the emergency number and ask for the coastguard. Give your location as precisely as you can, using a map or phone app, nearby landmarks, or any signs that carry a reference. Stay where you can be found, unless doing so is unsafe, and do not enter the water to attempt a rescue, since bystanders often become casualties themselves. The volunteer and professional services that respond are described under lifeboat service.
A few habits that help
- Check the forecast and tide times on the day.
- Tell someone your plans and expected return.
- Keep well back from cliff edges and out of old workings.
- Follow local signs over any general advice, including this article.
Outcomes at the coast are never entirely predictable, and being careful, flexible and willing to turn back is part of enjoying it.