Top Tips for Storm Watching in Cornwall
1 October 2024
October is here are we have already had some mighty winds ripping at our shores. This time of year can be brilliant for storm watching, after all Cornwall is surrounded on three sides with ocean. But as captivating as the waves are, it pays to respect their power and watch from a safe distance, so here are a few of our top tips.
1) Be Prepared
Check the forecast, this way you’ll know when to see the most epic waves, and where. Ask a local for the best spots and make sure you wrap up warm, waterproofs can help of course. It’s also wise to know the tide times, so you know how far the wave’s reach is. Listen to the weather warnings too, if the warnings are too severe, best to take note.
2) Be Safe
Stay away from the waves. Watching at a safe distance means you can get all the enjoyment, with all the family, without the danger. Personally I think admiring the view from a cosy watering hole tops being battered and soaked by spray! Make sure not to go alone, and that someone knows where you are. Don’t be tempted to go into the sea, this time of year especially. With no lifeguards around people can get caught off guard very quickly. Respect the force and changeability of nature.
3) Take What You Need
You’ll want to capture the moment so don’t forget your camera or phone. Binoculars can help you spot wildlife that responds to these dramatic moments, and a hot flask of something fortifying will mean you can stay out longer–especially when your fingers start getting cold!
4) Local Knowledge
Of course all our drivers at Cornwall Discovery Tours are well versed in where the best storm spots are. Our luxury vehicles can take you to those lesser known vantage points, giving you great access and a warm place to shelter too. Do get in touch if you want to make the most of Cornwall, whatever the weather. We have plenty of ideas on how to maximise your Cornish stay, come rain, wind or shine.
5) Where to Go
Cornwall’s North coast is the Atlantic coast and there storms can really rage, but some of the most memorable photos have been snapped on the South with the village of Porthleven often featured in the news. It’s charming whatever the season but seeing the waves hammer the strong harbour wall can really take your breath away! One of the best views is from the Ship Inn, a great vantage point and cosy too.
Cape Cornwall is another impressive place, you can park up at the National Trust car park and see the weather coming from far on the horizon. The view here is expansive and the waves are some of the biggest in Cornwall.
Looking across to Godrevy Lighthouse is another great option. It’s an iconic place, boat trips circle here in calmer waters from St Ives, with plenty of seals to watch as they sun themselves on the rocks. We can drive you to the headland opposite where you can see the lighthouse bravely fend for itself against the crashing waves.
Of course Newquay is no stranger to waves, as the surfers can attest, and when it comes to storms its many beaches don’t disappoint. Heading up near Towan Headland is a perfect view-point. Stay safe though, away from the edge, the waves here can reach pretty high. The famous Cribbar Wave appears here and can reach as high as 30 feet.
The coastline around Padstow and Polzeath can also be great storm watching options. The Rumps is a must to explore in all seasons but the changing light and roaring waves are particularly spectacular from here.
Marazion makes for an iconic view, St Michael’s Mount always steals the show, and sitting at the Godolphin Hotel with a hot chocolate in hand watching the storms roll by is pretty special.
6) When it’s all Over
When the waves die down the fun isn’t over, here is where some of the best beach combing can be found! A treasure trove of goodies washed up by the waves. Our last top tip is head to the beach and see what keepsake you might find.
