Porthtowan
Beach break · Cornwall · Beginner → Advanced
Porthtowan surf today
Forecast for Friday 16 October
Intermediate : Too big for your level. Don't mess with that.
Today's score by level (at the day's best, out of 100)
- Beginner —
- Intermediate —
- Advanced —
- Waves 2.5 m · 11 s period
- Wind N 25 km/h (gusts 50 km/h)
- Tides: ▽ 02:00 · ▲ 08:00 · ▽ 15:00 · ▲ 21:00
About this spot
Known for powerful, sometimes very hollow waves, Porthtowan is a beach break tucked between steep cliffs in the former tin-mining region of Cornwall — a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Spot photos
Porthtowan in detail
When to surf here
Autumn and winter give the best swells but water is cold. Summer = smaller waves, max crowd.
Beginner → Advanced
Good level required. You can stand, paddle and read a peak. When it fires, better know what you're doing.
Access & landmarks
Easy beach access, parking usually nearby. Ask locally about seasonal currents.
Safety
Wear an appropriate wetsuit. Scout the currents before you paddle out. Respect the locals and right-of-way. Check weather and tides.
Frequently asked about Porthtowan
What tide is best for surfing Porthtowan?
Porthtowan usually works best around mid-tide. The tide shapes the sandbanks and the depth over the reef, so check the day's tide times before your session.
Is Porthtowan suitable for beginners?
Porthtowan is rather recommended for intermediate surfers. If you're a beginner, prefer a surf school, a small swell and a suitable tide, or look for a more sheltered nearby spot.
What wind is ideal for Porthtowan?
The ideal wind at Porthtowan comes broadly from East: it's offshore, which helps shape and hold the waves. A strong onshore wind generally degrades conditions.
What surf spots are near Porthtowan?
Around Porthtowan, you can also check conditions at Fistral, Watergate Bay, Praa Sands. Compare the scores, wind and swell direction before choosing where to surf.