A Hidden Paradise in Cornwall
Finding a spot of exceptional beauty in Cornwall is perhaps the simplest challenge one could undertake, with every nook and cranny of this stunning county appearing as though it has been carefully crafted by a master painter. Turquoise seas, towering cliffs, secluded coves, and unspoilt beaches are merely some of nature's treasures found in abundance throughout Cornwall. With that in mind, claiming there is one beach cove in the county that truly shines even among the remarkable beauties the area boasts is quite a statement—and that is precisely what this West Cornwall beach manages to do.
A genuine hidden treasure, this beach cove seems plucked straight from a fantasy, boasting spectacular turquoise waters and flawless white sand. While locals are entirely familiar with Nanjizal Beach's jaw-dropping beauty, visitors are frequently left utterly speechless when they stumble upon this 'magical little cove'.
Visitor Reactions
Writing on Tripadvisor, one visitor could not contain their amazement at how stunning Nanjizal was: 'This beach has the most beautiful turquoise water and white sand, and is the perfect escape from the tourist traps like Land's End. The walk around the Coast Path is incredible when the sun is shining, and you can see Nanjizal Beach glistening in the distance as you come around the headland.'
Another delighted traveller says: 'What a magical little Cove, the beach is just beautiful. It's a bit of a trek to get to, but OMG it's well worth it, it is a hidden gem and well worth the effort.' Painting a stunning picture for prospective visitors, one review added: 'A lovely beach with beautiful blue water, clear pools to splash around in and a fresh water stream dropping down off the cliff. Very scenic. Large boulders scattered across the beach make it a little hard to access parts of the beach.'
What Makes This Beach So Remarkable
Words simply cannot capture the breathtaking beauty of Nanjizal Beach. Nanjizal Beach sits on Cornwall's south-west coastline, near the hugely popular Land's End close to Penzance. Throughout the years, Nanjizal has remained largely unspoilt, primarily thanks to its remote location and challenging access. Previously ranked as the world's second most secluded beach by Sunsail, there is no direct road leading to the shore.
According to Cornwall Beaches, Nanjizal lies at the end of a short, shallow valley, with the beach's unique selling point being its ever-changing character from year to year. The website explained: 'Sometimes it's a boulder-strewn cove, while at other times there is a stretch of golden sand across the bay. One thing that remains constant is the unusually clear blue water.'
Those seeking more than simply a picturesque view at this hidden gem are in for a treat, as there are numerous fascinating rock formations and spectacular secluded caves to discover in the surrounding area. Perhaps the most striking feature of Nanjizal Beach is its celebrated sea cave, locally referred to as Zawn Pyg, which translates as 'pointed chasm'.
The Song of the Sea Cave
Zawn Pyg has repeatedly taken the internet by storm as the 'Song of the Sea', particularly on TikTok, with visitors uncovering this hidden treasure during their adventures across Cornwall. The Song of the Sea is a breathtaking lagoon of emerald water flowing through a cave, where magical, shimmering light pours through its magnificent arch during the afternoons. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving, boasting two further natural pools within the cave, known as Big and Little Muzzan. These are perfect for a refreshing swim when sea conditions are calm and safe. It is worth noting that the far end of the cave is exposed to Atlantic swells, which can be tremendously powerful, so extreme caution must be exercised at all times.
To the north of Song of the Sea, nestled close to the cliff, sits a distinctive rock formation, popularly known as the 'Diamond Horse'. Nanjizal Beach is also a renowned haven for wildlife, particularly birdwatching, as it falls within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Seals are frequently spotted frolicking along the shoreline, particularly near Zawn Reeth.
Those bold enough to make the trek to Nanjizal Beach, clambering over rocks via a steep and demanding route, will be rewarded with once-in-a-lifetime views and unforgettable memories, discovering natural archways, stone sculptures, caves, and stunning freshwater waterfalls along the way.
Safety and Access
Nanjizal Beach's secluded location means it is only reachable on foot, with visitors required to navigate a challenging terrain of rocks and treacherously steep, slippery boulders along the way. It is absolutely essential to check the latest tide times before setting off. There are no facilities or parking available at Nanjizal, so visitors should bear this in mind when planning their trip.
The boulders both en route to Nanjizal and on the beach itself are notorious for becoming extremely slippery when wet, with many reports of visitors losing their footing and sustaining sprains and grazes. A number of fractures have also been reported, so those with limited mobility are strongly urged to consider this carefully before attempting the journey. The beach is equally unsuitable for young children, and while it welcomes dogs throughout the year, extra care must be taken when bringing your four-legged companions to this stunning location.
Rip currents have also been flagged as a concern at Nanjizal, and the coastal path running from Land's End to Nanjizal Beach features unguarded cliff edges in certain sections. To get to Nanjizal Beach, visitors can either follow the Land's End coastal path a mile to the south, or park at Porthgwarra and enjoy a one-mile walk down to this spectacular hidden gem.
