West Cornwall

Gwithian and Godrevy surf guide

Hayle, Cornwall

Gwithian and Godrevy form the north-eastern end of St Ives Bay, with a long sweep of sand, multiple access points and Godrevy lighthouse visible offshore.

Photo by Dave Barnwell

Break: Long beach break
Exposure: Atlantic swell into St Ives Bay
Can suit: A broad range on suitable days, with surf schools nearby

How the beach surfs

Different banks work along the bay, so a short walk can materially change the wave and crowd. The beach is exposed to west and north-west swell, while the curve of St Ives Bay gives some variation in wind and wave angle between Gwithian and Godrevy.

Access and orientation

Gwithian, the towans and the National Trust land at Godrevy provide separate approaches. Car parks can fill early, and the walk through the dunes makes a memorable exit point worth choosing before you paddle out.

Check before entering

Rip currents beside changing banks
Rocks towards Godrevy and Strap Rocks
Longshore drift and similar-looking dune exits

National Trust Godrevy visitor information RNLI Godrevy lifeguard information Check official bathing-water information

Check current advice and lifeguard cover before travelling. A bathing-water classification is not a real-time clearance.

Regional wave indicators

Selected for this side of Cornwall, rather than straight-line proximity across land. These regional measurements do not predict breaking wave height or arrival time at this beach. Check the observation time on each station.

View all wave buoys

Nearest webcams

Camera links open the provider's site in a new tab. Some services require paid access.

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Seven-day surf forecast

View the Godrevy and Gwithian forecast

Sources and review

Guide reviewed 23 August 2026. Official information can change at short notice.