Sennen Cove is one of those places that really feels like you’re on holiday. A proper stretch of golden sand, blue water, a handful of shops and cafés, and a great view out to sea. Yes, it can be busy—but it still manages to hold that wild Cornwall edge.

At Sennen Cove you will find:

• The RNLI lifeboat station 

• The Roundhouse gallery and café, which sits right on the slipway

• A beach shop or two, surf school, and fish & chips

• A surfy, lively feel in summer with families, dogs, and ice creams all part of the mix

If you head further along the beach past the rocks (towards Gwynver), it opens up into a dog-friendly stretch all year round, depending on tide. It’s quieter, with space to walk, play, and breathe. You’ll often see dogs having a great time here—but always check the signs, as beach access can vary seasonally.

It’s not a secret spot. It can get busy in summer, especially at peak times. But if you go early, later in the evening, or on a slightly moodier day, it’s still one of the best coastal spots around. Dramatic, open, and full of energy.

Planning your visit:
Sennen Cove is easy to reach from St Just and has a large pay-and-display car park at the top of the cove, just a short walk down to the beach and harbour area. There is further parking at the bottom of the hill and also down the harbour end. 

There are toilets, cafés, a pub, and a selection of shops, and you can often grab a hot drink or ice cream even in the quieter months. We had a memorable chip butty there off season a few years ago when we had to count out the pennies in our pockets as we had come unprepared!

Beach access is seasonally restricted for dogs on the main beach, check signs or the Cornwall Council website for current details, but the far western end (past the rocks) is dog friendly all year, as long as tides allow.

For up-to-date beach rules and tide times, check:
🌊Dogs on beaches - Cornwall Council