A guide to Bossiney Haven, a small, sheltered cove near Tintagel that appears at low tide.
Tucked below the cliffs between Boscastle and Tintagel, Bossiney Haven is a small, sheltered cove that many visitors drive straight past. At low tide, a pale sandy beach appears between dark rocks, with clear water and rock pools. It's one of the beaches listed on our FAQ page, and a favourite with campers who don't mind a steep walk.
Where is Bossiney Haven?
Bossiney is a small hamlet on the B3263, just east of Tintagel. The cove lies below it, reached by a footpath from the road. From Lower Pennycrocker Farm, it's a short drive through Boscastle towards Tintagel.
Getting down to the beach
The path
A footpath leads from the road at Bossiney across fields and then down the cliff. The final section is steep, with steps, and can be slippery after rain. It's not suitable for pushchairs or people with limited mobility. Allow 10 to 15 minutes each way, longer coming back up.
Parking
There's a small car park in Bossiney. Spaces are limited in summer, so arrive early. Please don't park on the narrow road or block gateways.
The tide
Low tide only
Bossiney Haven is very much a low-tide beach. At high tide, the sand is covered and the sea reaches the base of the cliffs. Always check tide times before you go and aim to arrive on a falling tide, ideally a couple of hours before low water.
Watch the time
Keep an eye on the incoming tide, especially if you explore around the rocks. It's easy to lose track of time on a sunny day. Read our Cornwall beach safety guide.
What to expect
- Sand: at low tide, a pale sandy beach between rocky outcrops.
- Rock pools: great for exploring at low tide, with crabs, anemones and small fish.
- Clear water: on calm days, the water can look beautifully clear.
- Cliffs and rock formations: dramatic rocks around the cove.
- No facilities: there are no toilets, cafés or lifeguards. Bring everything you need.
Swimming
On calm days, the sheltered cove can be lovely for a dip. However, there are no lifeguards, and conditions can change. Only swim if you're confident, never alone, and avoid swimming in rough seas or near rocks. Stay out of caves and gullies as the tide rises.
Who is it for?
- Confident walkers who don't mind a steep climb back up.
- Couples and families with older children.
- Rock poolers and photographers.
- Anyone looking for a quieter beach than the busier spots.
If you're looking for a beach with easier access and facilities, try Bude's beaches or Widemouth Bay. See our Widemouth Bay guide.
Dogs
Dogs may be welcome, but check local signs. Keep dogs close on the steep path and away from cliff edges. Read our camping with dogs post.
Combine with nearby sights
- Tintagel: the village and castle are a short walk or drive away. See our Tintagel page.
- St Nectan's Glen and Rocky Valley: read our St Nectan's Glen guide.
- Trebarwith Strand: another low-tide beach just beyond Tintagel. See our Trebarwith Strand guide.
- The coast path: walk from Bossiney towards Tintagel or Boscastle. See our Boscastle to Tintagel walk.
What to bring
- Beach shoes for the rocks.
- Water and snacks.
- Sun cream and hats.
- A small bag for rubbish to take home.
- A tide timetable.
- A warm layer for the walk back.
Best time to visit
Late spring and early autumn are lovely, as the beach is quieter and the walk is cooler. On summer days, go early to get parking. Calm days after a spell of settled weather often give the clearest water.
Photography
The cove's rocks, clear water and cliffs make it a wonderful place for photographs. Early morning and late afternoon light can be beautiful. Take care near the water's edge and on wet rocks.
Respect the coast
Bossiney Haven is unspoilt, and we'd love it to stay that way. Please take all rubbish home, leave rock pool creatures where you find them, and don't stack stones or remove pebbles.
A morning at Bossiney
Check the tide the evening before and plan to reach the cove around two hours before low water. Spend a couple of hours on the sand and in the rock pools, then climb back up before the tide turns. Drive or walk into Tintagel for lunch, and spend the afternoon at the castle or on the coast path. It's a perfect half day from the campsite.
Staying nearby
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is about two miles from Boscastle, with the coast path half a mile away. Bossiney is a short drive. Adults are £10 per night and children 5 and over are £5. Read our beaches near Boscastle guide for more coves to explore.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bossiney Haven a sandy beach?
Yes, at low tide. At high tide, the sand is covered.
How do you get to Bossiney Haven?
By a footpath from Bossiney, on the B3263 near Tintagel. The last section is steep.
Are there facilities at Bossiney Haven?
No. There are no toilets, cafés or lifeguards.
Is Bossiney Haven good for families?
It's best for families with older children who can manage the steep path.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
