Travel bucket list idea:

Coasteering in Cornwall

Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)

Last updated: 28 April, 2024

Coasteering is the ‘sport’ of clambering and climbing over coastline, be it climbing cliffs, jumping off cliffs into the sea, clambering through canyons, running on beaches, or swimming in channels; Cornwall and Devon – with clement weather, clean seas, craggy cliffs and golden beaches – happen to be the best places in Britain to do it.

It’s not just for iron men and women – there are of course different levels suited to different physical abilities and ages (including kids), but you need a basic level of fitness and swimming ability. It’s physically challenging, and the water is (always) cold, but it’s a thrilling, rewarding way to explore the picturesque southwest coastline.

Active, adventurous kids will love coasteering, but most operators recommend over-10s only.

Logistics

Price from: £50

Minimum age: 10

Age suitable: 10+

When: All year around

Duration: 2-3 hours

Getting there & doing it

Coasteering operates at different sites around the coastline, depending on the operator. Sessions are usually around 2-3 hours long in summer, 1-2 hours in autumn and spring. Some operators run open sessions while others require a minimum of participants to take place.

Winter wetsuits, boots, buoyancy aids and water sports helmets are provided to keep you warm, safe and comfortable.

When to do it

The coasteering season generally lasts April-October, bookings on request.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Coasteering Experience in Newquay

Newquay

Viator

Our expert instructors spent a long time finding this hidden gem, pioneering a coasteering route where everything happens within one extraordinary secret Cornish cove. One minute you’ll be clambering up through a hole in the rock called Smeagol’s Perch, then leaping out into the middle of its crystal blue plunge pool. It’s our very own ‘under the radar’ secret spot, so you won’t see any other coasteer groups down there, just plenty of natural wildlife and even some friendly seals!

Price £55

Min age 8

Rating 4.97 / 5 [384 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Website >

Newquay Coasteering x Cornish Wave | Original Since 2012

Newquay

Viator

Experience the Newquay coastline like never before as you negotiate sluices, whirlpools, deep water rock jumps, and more. You will need to swim multiple sections of 25 metres as you discover smugglers caves, find out about the areas local history and wild swim your way along our magical coastline, all guided and supported by our experienced and qualified Coasteering guides. Coasteering in Newquay is a fantastic adventure activity that is accessible to all walks of life. You don"t have to do anything you don't want to do!

Price £55

Min age 8

Rating 4.98 / 5 [332 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Website >

Surfing, Coasteering & Glamping in Cornwall

Newquay

Viator

Experience the best of Cornwall–from the waves to the wilderness. Learn to surf with experienced surf coaches, discover a hidden coastline as you coasteer around the stunning Towan Headland, before heading off to our private Cornish woodland for a relaxed evening of camping under the stars. Worlds away from the Newquay nightlife, our handcrafted wild campsite is decked out with bell tents, fairy lights, fire pits and all sorts of fun woodland activities. Ideal for solo travellers, couples and small groups of friends looking for a unique head-to-toe dunking in the laid-back Newquay lifestyle. Join us!

Price £289

Min age 18

Rating 5 / 5 [111 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Website >

Who to go with: tour operators

Our writer’s recommended tour operators to book with

Cornish Coast Adventures

Port Quin, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)

TourOperator

Family coasteering outfit based in Port Quin, Cornwall (just north of Padstow), run by local adventure enthusiasts Sam and Mark Williams (both lifeguards with NGB qualifications). They also offer sea kayaking.

Website >

Elemental UK

Falmouth, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)

TourOperator

Based at Swanpool Beach, Falmouth, they offer a wide range of watersports including coasteering, sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, kayaking and raft building.

Website >

Harlyn Surf School [coasteering]

Padstow, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)

TourOperator

This highly regarded surf school also offers coasteering along a course from Harlyn Bay, near Padstow, to Trevone. Lots of jumps and caves.

Website >

Lusty Glaze Adventure Centre

Newquay, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)

TourOperator

Better known for its zip wires and Junior Baywatch programme, this adventure centre on a private beach at Newquay also offers 2-hour coasteering adventures.

Website >