Porth Nanven is a small beach in the far south west of Cornwall, just 4 miles north of Lands End. The beach is a little difficult to get to and as there is not much sand, it is largely overlooked by the tourists who flock to Cornwall’s large and family friendly beaches. For the photographer however, Porth Nanven offers lots of interest as there are many large rounded boulders that can be used as foreground interest, the beach is flanked by low cliffs and there are small islands known as The Brisons out to sea. As the beach faces west, this is a good spot for sunsets, however my only visit was during the day, so unfortunately I have no sunset pictures to show.
Location and Parking
Postcode: TR19 7NP
From the roundabout at the end of the A30 in Penzances, take the A3071 towards St Just, or if coming from St Ives, take the B3306 to St Just. Once in St Just, if coming from Penzance, turn left onto Cape Cornwall Street just after the town square – if coming from St Ives, this is the first main right turn after reaching the village. Turn first left onto West Place, which turns into Bosome Road and follow this for 0.5 miles, then turn left onto a minor road sign-posted to Cot Valley. Follow this road for 0.7 miles to reach the car park at the end of the road which is adjacent to the beach.
Porth Nanven Beach
The beach is covered with large rounded boulders which must be negotiated to get down to the water’s edge. Fortunately these are not too slippery, however care is still required.
Porth Nanven Boulders
The classic view from the beach is probably looking out towards the Brisons, with the boulders and granite outcrops in the foreground. Some of the well rounded boulders make a good foreground, and look like large dinosaur eggs on the beach.
Porth Nanven Rocks And The Brisons
“Dinosaur Eggs” At Porth Nanven
When we visited, there were no large waves, however with a little patience, some swirl in the water could be captured with a long exposure.
Porth Nanven Waves
Some of the boulders are covered in green seaweed or algae, that makes for a vibrant foreground, looking towards the cliffs.
Green Rocks At Porth Nanven
With a west facing aspect, interesting boulders and rocks, and a quiet, secluded beach, Porth Nanven would be a fine location for watching the sunset in the evening, something to save up for a future visit.