Towans Beach at Low Tide in Hayle

Find My Favourite Holiday Cottages in Hayle

Hayle is a peaceful coastal community in West Cornwall, located away from the hustle and bustle of nearby St. Ives at the mouth of Hayle River, where it flows into St. Ives Bay. The town has its own three-mile stretch of sand known as Hayle Towans, with brilliant swells for surfing and fine sand for sunbathing and sandcastle building. The sands are backed by sand dunes beyond which lie shops and houses, including a choice of lovely Cornish holiday cottages in Hayle, many converted from old fishermen’s homes. The name Hayle means ‘estuary’, and sailing and rowing are popular along the estuary. There is also a busy harbour filled with gorgeous Cornish yachts and motorboats.

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Here are some things to see and do in Hayle:

Paradise Park

A tropical bird garden that has since acquired otters, pandas, squirrels and the rare Cornish Chough. It’s perfect for a sunny day to wander around this ‘Fun Farm’, and, when the sun isn’t shining, retire to the newly built Jungle Barn indoor play centre where the children can run wild. There’s also Jeepers Karting for another fantastic day out with the family. Boasting two circuits and a multitude of karts to choose from.

Beaches

Hayle is renowned for its stunning beaches. One of the highlights is Hayle Towans, a vast stretch of golden sand that offers ample space for sunbathing, picnicking, and leisurely walks along the shore. Gwithian Beach, adjacent to Hayle Towans, is popular among surfers and boasts incredible views of Godrevy Lighthouse.

Godrevy Lighthouse

This iconic lighthouse is an impressive sight, situated on Godrevy Island, just off the coast of Hayle. Visitors can enjoy views of the lighthouse from the beach or take a boat trip to get a closer look.

Nature Reserves

Hayle is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves that offer opportunities for wildlife watching and exploring the area's unique ecosystems. The Hayle Estuary RSPB Reserve is a haven for birds, with a variety of species, including herons, waders, and migratory birds. The Cornwall Wildlife Trust manages the nearby Phillack and Towans Nature Reserve, which features sand dunes, wildflowers, and rare species.

St. Ives

Just a short drive or train ride from Hayle, the charming seaside town of St. Ives, is worth a visit. It offers art galleries, independent shops, picturesque beaches, and the renowned Tate St. Ives, showcasing contemporary art.

Watersports and Outdoor Activities

Hayle’s coastal location makes it an excellent destination for watersports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing in the area. There are surf schools and equipment rental shops available for those looking to try their hand at these activities.

South West Coast Path

Hayle is situated on the South West Coast Path, a long-distance walking trail that spans the entire coastline of Cornwall. Visitors can take scenic walks along the coast, enjoying breathtaking views and discovering hidden coves and historic landmarks.

Local Cuisine

Cornwall is known for its delicious cuisine, and Hayle offers a range of dining options to savour local flavours. From traditional fish and chips to fresh seafood, cream teas, and Cornish pasties, visitors can indulge in the region’s culinary delights.

Further Afield

For a more relaxed day, enjoy a wander around some of Cornwall’s best art galleries, including The Tate St. Ives or the Newlyn in Penzance, while the smaller galleries and artists’ studios in St. Ives, St. Just and St. Agnes are also worth visiting. With such stunning scenery as inspiration, much of the art is outstanding and definitely worth a purchase or two as a holiday memento.

These are just a few of the highlights that Hayle has to offer. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, exploring nature reserves, enjoying watersports, or immersing yourself in local culture and cuisine, Hayle provides a delightful coastal getaway for visitors on holiday.