The evenings are darker, and the days are getting shorter with the sun setting earlier as the months progress. Autumn is famed as a great time of the year to catch a breath-taking sunset.
There is nothing more calming and enthralling than spending an evening watching the sun going down especially over the sea, it gives a real appreciation of nature’s natural beauty and feels like the sky is putting on a show for you, it can be the perfect end to a perfect day.
Sunsets produce an incredible array of warm fiery hues that light the sky and stretch for miles, as the sun sets on the horizon, a truly wonderful sight. Each sunset is different and sets a unique scene.
Think snuggled under a blanket on a cliff to with a picnic, or at a beach bar with a welcoming glass of something cold, or perhaps sitting round a fire with family, friends or with a loved one. The Cornish coast is certainly not short of seascape sunset spots and we are happy to share some of our favourites with you.
It is best to arrive in your spot about 15-20 minutes before the sun is scheduled to start setting to get the full magical effect of an epic sunset. Make sure to take your camera with you to capture this magical moment. Sunsets are one of those best in life things that are free, sometimes it’s just about the simple pleasures.
Bedruthan Steps
The scenery here at beguiling Bedruthan is simply stunning and is an idyllic backdrop for a spectacular sunset. It is said that the impressive rocks dotted across the beach were steps for the Giant Bedruthan, they certainly add a fascinating dimension to this location. The clifftops provide the perfect spot to take in an awe-inspiring sunset. The beach with its beautiful golden sands is only accessible at low tide.
It is also a treasured spot for stargazers so perhaps you could wait and see if you get a starry night.
Godrevy Beach
Godrevy Beach is in an Area of Outstanding natural Beauty and has some incredible coastal walks and spectacular panoramic sea views on a clear day. The iconic Godrevy Lighthouse sits on a rocky outcrop and this along with the beach serve as a fantastic backdrop to dazzling sunsets, it looks almost as if the sky is on fire as the sun hits the horizon. Take up position on the clifftop to get the best view.
Gwithian Towans Beach
This magnificent beach is popular with windsurfers owing to the winds that blow in from the Atlantic Ocean, their silhouettes are highlighted by the setting sun as it descends into the glittering sea.
Holywell Bay
This is a lovely golden sandy beach backed by sand dunes and sheltered by cliffs and is popular with both families and surfers. Stroll along the sands and absorb the calming vibe from the water lapping the shore whilst taking in a fabulously colourful sunset as the beams of light are refracted off the water.
Land’s End
Situated in the most westerly part of Cornwall is Land’s End with towering rugged granite cliffs that dominate the ocean far below, a unique natural setting with dramatic sunsets that reflect off the water. The setting sun throws a myriad of warm colours across the uninterrupted views of the horizon.
Perranporth Beach
With its miles of golden sands and rolling sand dunes, there is lots of space to find your own secluded part of the beach where you can hunker down and take in a breath-taking sunset, watching the sun set over the clear waters. Afterwards, you can make your way to one of the seafront bars or restaurants to finish off your evening.
Porthmeor Beach
It has been recognised for years by artists for its natural light, so makes it a must to catch a sunset. This popular beach is overlooked by the iconic Tate St Ives building, get comfy on the fine sands and enjoy a dazzling sunset. You can then make your way to one of the trendy bars or restaurants in the town for further entertainment.
Sennen Cove
The pearly white sands of Sennen Cove are lovely to walk along or find a spot and place your picnic blanket down and settle yourself in to see the sky illuminated by a fiery sunset. It is the most westerly beach in Cornwall meaning you will get to see every last bit of sun shimmering on the surrounding waters before it disappears below the horizon.
St Michael’s Mount
This well-known tidal island has a rich history and is steeped in myth and legend. A unique setting that is further enhanced by the sun setting behind this regal castle. Take a blanket to Marazion beach and get the full effect of the pretty sunsets and sweeping views it really is a magical setting.
Tintagel
Tintagel has a unique air of mystery and is steeped in history and legends and this makes for a spellbinding location to sit and watch the sun setting into the Celtic Sea, it would be hard to beat this romantic setting.
“There’s a sunrise and a sunset every single day, and they’re absolutely free. Don’t miss so many of them.” Jo Walton