A guide to Port Quin and Port Gaverne, two peaceful coves either side of Port Isaac.
Port Isaac is famous for its fishing harbour and its starring role on TV. But on either side of the village are two quieter coves that many visitors miss: Port Quin to the west and Port Gaverne to the east. Both are lovely places for a swim, a picnic or a walk on the coast path.
Where are they?
Port Gaverne is just east of Port Isaac, a short walk from the village. Port Quin is a little further west, reached by narrow lanes or the coast path. From Lower Pennycrocker Farm, near Boscastle, the drive to Port Isaac takes you south-west along the coast road via Delabole. See our Port Isaac day trip guide.
Port Gaverne
The cove
Port Gaverne is a small, sheltered inlet with a slipway and a shingle and sand beach at low tide. Historically, it was used to ship slate from the Delabole quarry. Today, it's a peaceful spot for a paddle or a swim on calm days.
Getting there
You can walk from Port Isaac along the road or the coast path in a few minutes. Parking near the cove is limited.
Port Quin
The cove
Port Quin is a tiny inlet surrounded by green slopes, cared for by the National Trust. There are a few old cottages, a slipway and a small beach at low tide. It's quiet and unspoilt.
The legend
Port Quin is often called "the village that died". Local legend says that the men of the village were lost at sea in a storm, and the families left. Historians suggest the decline was more likely due to the end of the fishing and mining trades, but the story adds to the cove's atmosphere.
Doyden Castle
On the headland above Port Quin stands Doyden Castle, a small 19th-century folly built as a place for entertaining. It's now a National Trust holiday cottage, so admire it from the outside.
Walking the coast path
The section of the South West Coast Path between Port Isaac and Port Quin is spectacular, with steep climbs, cliffs, coves and views. It's roughly two and a half to three miles one way and very hilly, so allow a few hours and wear good boots. Continue west past Port Quin towards Lundy Bay, Pentire Point and Polzeath for a longer walk. See our Polzeath and Rock guide.
Swimming
Both coves can be lovely for a swim on calm days, but there are no lifeguards. Only swim if you're confident and conditions are suitable, and watch the tide. Read our beach safety guide.
Kayaking and paddleboarding
On calm days, the sheltered coves can be great for kayaking and paddleboarding. Stay close to shore, check the forecast and wear a buoyancy aid.
Parking
Parking is limited at both coves. At Port Quin, there's a small National Trust car park. Port Isaac has larger car parks at the top of the village. Narrow lanes lead to both coves, so they aren't ideal for large vehicles. See our Cornish lanes guide.
Food and drink
There are few facilities at either cove, so bring a picnic or eat in Port Isaac. See our Port Isaac day trip guide.
Wildlife
Look out for seabirds, seals and, on calm summer days, occasionally dolphins offshore. Wild flowers are lovely on the cliffs in spring.
Dogs
Dogs are generally welcome on the coast path. Keep them on a lead near cliffs and livestock.
A day plan
Park at Port Isaac and explore the harbour. Walk east to Port Gaverne for a paddle, then return to Port Isaac for lunch. In the afternoon, walk west along the coast path to Port Quin, and back. It's a full day, but one of the best walks on this coast.
Port Isaac itself
Port Isaac is a working fishing village with narrow streets, whitewashed cottages and a busy harbour. It's well known as the setting for the TV series Doc Martin and as the home of the Fisherman's Friends singers. The streets are steep and narrow, so park at the top of the village and walk down. Combining the village with one or both coves makes a full and varied day.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are quieter, with easier parking. Summer is busier, but the coves stay calmer than Port Isaac itself.
What to bring
- Good walking boots for the coast path.
- Water and snacks.
- A swimsuit and towel.
- A camera for the views.
Staying nearby
Our farm campsite near Boscastle is a great base for exploring Port Isaac and its coves. Adults are £10 per night and children 5 and over are £5. See our camping near Port Isaac page.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Port Quin?
A small cove west of Port Isaac, cared for by the National Trust.
Can I walk from Port Isaac to Port Quin?
Yes, along the coast path. It's roughly two and a half to three miles one way and hilly.
Is Port Gaverne good for swimming?
On calm days, yes. There are no lifeguards.
What is Doyden Castle?
A small 19th-century folly above Port Quin, now a National Trust holiday cottage.
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.
