Gwithian and Godrevy have always been some of my favourite beaches.
As National Trust members, we used to visit Godrevy beach a lot when we were kids, jumping off the rocks into the sea and bringing our inflatables into the large rockpools that can be accessed at low tides. As an adult I’ve enjoyed many a warm summer evening on the cliffs with a bbq, and taking in the views of the sun setting over Godrevy lighthouse.
Meanwhile Gwithian (the long strip of sandy beach that connects to Godrevy and carries all the way along the bay until it turns into Hayle beach) has been somewhere I’ve loved getting to know more as an adult. The sand dunes here stretch for what seems like miles and are great for running around in with the dogs, while the shoreline itself has now become our preferable spot to surf as well.
I’m very much a beginner and just learning to surf, but Gwithian is a fantastic beach for all levels. Alex can go out back and catch some larger waves while there’s always a decent swell for me to mess about in the white water perfecting my pop-up.
Nestled amongst the dunes (technically between the two beaches of Gwithian and Godrevy) up by the car park sits The Rockpool cafe and bar. With a chilled atmosphere, dog friendly nature and plenty of outdoors seating, The Rockpool is the perfect spot to come and hang out after a surf.
We visited a couple of months ago with Alex’s sister, and enjoyed a selection of their Cornish tapas-style menu. They have small plate and large plate options, as well as sides and salad bowls, depending on how hungry you are (and how much of a beating you’ve taken in the waves!).
Between us we went for their steamed pork bun, spiced crispy squid, grilled scallop mac n’ cheese, and chickpea fritters – all super tasty and a great way to get lots of flavour in your meal without eating WAY too much!
The Rockpool also hold gigs and pop-up events throughout the year, from outdoor cinema showings and open mic nights, to surf competitions and outdoor yoga, it’s an awesome little hub of activity right on the beach.
They’ve also launched their ‘Paella and Estrella’ evenings every Sunday this summer, cooking delicious paella outside in their ‘Rockshack’ for a steal of £12.50 including a big box of food plus a drink for the evening, starting from 5pm.
We headed down there the other week to tuck in after an evening of sunbathing and bodyboarding on Gwithian, and loved the relaxed atmosphere out in their grassy garden area. With food sizzling away, refreshing beers to go round and great music to go with, this was the exact chilled vibe that we needed to end off our weekend perfectly.
It’s first come first served and they’re proving to be really popular nights, so don’t miss out! Just rock up out of the ocean and grab a box of yummy paella (seafood OR vegan options available!) with a beer and chill in the sunshine.
To learn more about upcoming events or check out their full menu, head to The Rockpool website.
What’s your fave post-surf dish?
*We were kindly hosted at the Paella & Estrella night as guests but all opinions are my own
Leave a Reply