A guide to Sandymouth and Northcott Mouth, two wild, sandy beaches just north of Bude.
Just north of Bude, the coast becomes wilder. Sandymouth and Northcott Mouth are two beaches backed by tall, striped cliffs, with pebbles at the top and sweeping sand at low tide. They're quieter than Bude's town beaches and perfect for a day of rock pooling, beach walks and big Atlantic views.
Where are they?
Both beaches are a few miles north of Bude, reached from lanes off the A39. Northcott Mouth is closer to Bude; Sandymouth is a little further north. From Lower Pennycrocker Farm, near Boscastle, it's a drive of roughly 20 miles via Bude.
Sandymouth
The beach
Sandymouth is cared for by the National Trust. A short, steep path leads down from the car park to the beach. At the top of the beach is a bank of large pebbles. As the tide goes out, a long stretch of sand appears, with rocks, pools and gullies at either end.
The waterfall
At the northern end of the beach, a small stream tumbles over the cliff as a waterfall onto the sand. It's a lovely spot, especially after rain.
The cliffs
The cliffs here show dramatic folded rock layers, similar to those near Crackington Haven. They're impressive, but rockfalls happen, so don't sit or play directly beneath them.
Facilities
There's a car park (National Trust members park free), toilets and a café at the top of the path. Opening times vary through the season.
Northcott Mouth
Northcott Mouth is a smaller beach just south of Sandymouth. At low tide, it has sand and extensive rock pools, and it's quieter than Bude. Parking is limited and facilities are few, so check before you go.
Walking between the two
At low tide, it's possible to walk along the sand between Sandymouth and Northcott Mouth. But the incoming tide can cut you off, so check tide times carefully and head back in good time. Alternatively, walk the clifftop coast path, which links both beaches with Bude.
Tides
Both beaches change completely with the tide. At high tide, only pebbles remain at Sandymouth, while at low tide there's acres of sand. Plan your visit around low tide for the best experience. Read our Cornwall beach safety guide.
Swimming and surfing
Sandymouth can have good surf, and there's seasonal lifeguard cover at some beaches near Bude. Check the RNLI website before you go. When there are no lifeguards, only swim if you're confident and conditions are calm. Beginners will find Bude's town beaches or Widemouth Bay easier. See our Widemouth Bay guide and surf camping guide.
Rock pooling
At low tide, both beaches have excellent rock pools, with crabs, anemones, starfish and small fish. Wear grippy shoes and watch the tide.
Dogs
Seasonal dog restrictions may apply. Check signs at the car park. Keep dogs on leads on clifftop paths.
Walking the coast path
The coast path north of Bude is dramatic and hilly. From Sandymouth, you can walk north towards Duckpool, or south to Northcott Mouth and on to Bude along the cliffs. Allow plenty of time and wear good boots.
Combine with Bude
Bude is just a few minutes away. Visit the sea pool, Summerleaze Beach and the canal, or pick up supplies. See our Bude day trip guide and camping near Bude page.
What to bring
- A tide timetable.
- Grippy shoes for the rocks.
- A windbreak.
- Water, snacks and sun cream.
- A bag to take rubbish home.
Who are they for?
- Families who like rock pooling.
- Walkers looking for a quieter beach.
- Photographers drawn to the cliffs.
- Surfers, when conditions are right.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are quieter, with dramatic seas. In summer, arrive early for parking.
A day plan
Arrive at Sandymouth around two hours before low tide. Explore the waterfall and rock pools, then walk south along the sand to Northcott Mouth before the tide turns. Return along the coast path, have a coffee at the café, and head into Bude for the afternoon.
Respect the coast
These beaches are unspoilt. Please take litter home, leave rock pool creatures in their pools, and follow any National Trust signs. Don't climb the cliffs or take pebbles from the beach, which help protect the coast from erosion.
Wildlife
Look out for seabirds on the cliffs and, sometimes, seals in the water offshore. The clifftops above the beaches are bright with wild flowers in spring and early summer. If you see a seal on the beach, keep your distance and keep dogs well away.
Staying nearby
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is about two miles from Boscastle and about 15 miles from Bude. Adults are £10 per night and children 5 and over are £5. Read our beaches near Boscastle guide for more.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sandymouth a sandy beach?
Yes, at low tide. At high tide, only a bank of pebbles remains.
Is there a café at Sandymouth?
Yes, there's a café and toilets near the car park. Check opening times.
Can I walk from Sandymouth to Northcott Mouth?
Yes, along the sand at low tide or along the coast path. Watch the tide.
Is there a waterfall at Sandymouth?
Yes, a small stream falls over the cliff at the northern end of the beach.
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.
Want a base on this stretch of coast? See camping near Crackington Haven at Lower Pennycrocker Farm.
