Porthtowan
A small surf village between cliffs, with powerful banks.
Porthtowan is a cove between cliffs with a small surf village behind it. Its sandbanks are powerful at low to mid tide.
At high tide the beach shrinks a lot.
Spot facts
| Wave type | Beach break |
|---|---|
| Direction | Lefts and rights |
| Level | Intermediate |
| Best swell | W, NW |
| Best wind (offshore) | SE, E |
| Tide | Low to mid |
| Size | 0.8–2 m |
| Best season | Autumn to spring |
| Crowd | Medium |
| Localism | Medium |
Surf forecast
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Hour-by-hour forecast for 14 days, with stars for your board and level, and the whole site without ads.
Model forecast for open water a few kilometres offshore: it can't see sandbanks or the shelter of headlands and jetties. The rating (0–5) is worked out from this spot's ideal swell and wind. Use it as a guide and check the sea before paddling out. Data: Open-Meteo (DWD, ECMWF; CC BY 4.0)
Which board to bring
A shortboard or fish. How many litres? Work out your volume with the volume calculator.
What to bring to surf Porthtowan
Keeps your board from drifting off or hitting someone.
View on AmazonThe classic fish fins: speed in soft waves.
View on AmazonAmazon affiliate links: if you buy through them, Shapers Europe earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Localism and vibe
A regular local crew. Respect priority.
Surfing style
Powerful beach break.
Hazards
Currents and rocks at high tide.
Map
Shapers near Porthtowan
Order a board designed for these waves from a local shaper.
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Indicative information gathered from surf guides and surfers' experience. Conditions change with the sandbanks: check the forecast and ask at the beach.