Merope Rocks Beach

Tucked away on the dramatic Trevose Head peninsula near Padstow, Merope Rocks Beach offers visitors a secluded golden sand experience away from the busier North Cornwall shores. This charming beach is accessible via a series of steep concrete steps that wind past the impressive Padstow Lifeboat Station, adding maritime heritage to your beach journey.

The modern lifeboat station, opened in July 2006, creates a distinctive landmark on your descent to the beach. Visitors should note that parking in the station's car park is strictly prohibited, as these spaces are essential for crew members who may need to respond rapidly to emergency situations. Alternative parking can be found nearby on Trevose Head.

Once you've navigated the descent, Merope Rocks Beach rewards your efforts with a beautiful expanse of golden sand that creates a perfect setting for relaxation and coastal exploration. The beach's relatively remote location means it often provides a more peaceful alternative to the popular neighboring beaches, even during peak summer months.

The surrounding rocky outcrops that give the beach its name create fascinating exploration opportunities at low tide, while also providing shelter from prevailing winds. These natural features, combined with the spectacular Trevose Head setting, make Merope Rocks a favorite spot for photographers capturing Cornwall's dramatic coastal scenery.

For visitors exploring the broader Trevose Head area, Merope Rocks Beach offers an excellent addition to a coastal walking itinerary, with the South West Coast Path providing connections to other nearby beaches and the iconic Trevose Head Lighthouse with its sweeping panoramic views across this magnificent section of the North Cornwall coastline