Wild Swimming at Booby’s Bay, Cornwall: A Hidden Coastal Gem
If you’re looking for a wild swimming adventure on Cornwall’s North Coast, Booby’s Bay is a must-visit destination. Tucked away next to the more well-known Constantine Bay, this secluded spot offers an untamed, rugged coastline, breathtaking scenery, and a range of natural tidal pools—perfect for a refreshing dip.
Join Tam and Mama Swim from The Wild Swim Store as they explore this stunning wild swimming location.
Whilst you're here - take a peek at our swim kit: https://thewildswimstore.com
Watch the full video below:
Where is Booby’s Bay?
📍 Location: Booby’s Bay, North Cornwall
📌 Nearest Town: Padstow
🏊 Best for: Wild swimming, rock pooling, coastal exploration
🌊 Tide Advice: Best accessed at low tide
Booby’s Bay sits just north of Constantine Bay, one of Cornwall’s most famous surf beaches. While Constantine is often packed with surfers, Booby’s Bay remains a wilder, quieter alternative, making it a great option for wild swimmers and nature lovers.
Swimming at Booby’s Bay – What to Expect
Booby’s Bay is known for its stunning coastal scenery and expanse of golden sands. While it can sometimes experience powerful Atlantic waves, as it did on the day Tam visited, it can offer some calm tidal spots to swim in.
If you explore at low tide, you’ll discover hidden rock pools and sand pools that offer a much calmer, safer place to dip. These natural tidal pools provide shelter from the waves, creating crystal-clear, cold water havens for wild swimmers.
Tip: Always check tide times before visiting—at high tide, much of the bay is submerged, so be careful to not get cut off!
Why Cold Water Swimmers Love Booby’s Bay
✔ Stunning Rock Pools & Sand Pools – Sheltered, clear pools make it an ideal spot for a peaceful swim away from the sometimes wild sea.
✔ Spectacular Coastal Scenery – A rugged, unspoiled beach with sweeping views.
✔ Shipwreck Remains – At low tide, you can spot the remains of an old shipwreck embedded in the sand, adding a touch of history to your swim.
✔ Less Crowded than Constantine Bay – While most beach goers flock to Constantine which has a car park, Booby’s Bay offers a quieter, more tranquil wild swimming experience - we visited in March time so it was pretty quiet so it might be busier in the warmer months!
Wild Swimming Safety at Booby’s Bay
Booby’s Bay is only lifeguarded during the summer months, and the waves can be powerful.
Access to Booby's Bay:
Access to the beach is by climbing down over rocks from the coast path or walking from Constantine Bay across the sand at low tide.
Final Thoughts: Is Booby’s Bay Worth a Visit?
Absolutely! If you love wild swimming, open water adventures, and exploring hidden gems, Booby’s Bay is a fantastic place to add to your list. Whether you’re dipping in the natural rock pools, taking in the dramatic scenery, or hunting for the historic shipwreck, this spot has something for every outdoor adventurer.
Just remember to: check tide times, choose a safe swimming area, and soak in the beauty of one of Cornwall’s best-kept wild swimming secrets!