Cornwall is known for its impressive coastline and beautiful beaches. It is also featured frequently in the BBC programme, Poldark.
Kayaking and canoeing are popular pastimes in Cornwall to soak up the dramatic rugged cliffs and in-land waterways.
Here are some of the most beautiful kayaking trails in Cornwall and places you can rent the equipment.
St Ives
St Ives is one of the most beautiful spots to go kayaking in Cornwall. On a good day with sunny weather, the sea is crystal blue. Start at Carbis Bay and take a tour around the surrounding shoreline. Ocean Sports Centre will provide you with a beginner-friendly kayak and a guided tour.
Go with Ocean Sports Centreto help you with your kayaking needs.
River Tamar
Located between Devon and Cornwall where the sea meets green rolling hills. Here you can start at Cotehele Quay, which is part of a National Trust property. If you look out you may see some deer, falcons and kingfishers! Tamar Trailscan provide you with all the equipment, even a traditional three-person Canadian canoe.
Lizard Peninsula
Right at the very bottom of the UK is the Lizard Peninsula. Located in the south-west of Cornwall, this peninsula is an amazing way to explore through caves and go seal spotting. The Lizard Adventure run tours provide kayaking equipment. Start from Cadgwith Cove or Mullion Harbour and explore the spectacular Cornish coastline.
The Gannel Estuary
Situated in Newquay, where the River Gannel meets the sea, you can paddle through blue water lagoons and overhanging trees. You can book a tour with the Newquay activity centre.
St Agnes
Sea kayaking in St Agnes is a great way to see the rugged cliffs of the north coast of Cornwall.
Make a start at rock Trevaunance Cove. If you are an experienced paddler then you can head to Hanover Cove towards Perranporth if the conditions are sufficient. St Agnes is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches.
Go with Koru Kayaking for a guided tour of the coastline.
Fowey Estuary
This location is ideal for beginners as it is a flat and smooth trail. Start at Golant and make your way towards the river mouth. Along the way, you will see a lot of beautiful scenery and wildlife. If you’re lucky you’ll maybe even see a dolphin.
To rent equipment at Fowey Estuary go with Encounter Cornwall.
Roseland Peninsula
Roseland Peninsula has golden beaches and rolling hills. It is an ideal spot to start your kayaking venture as it is in a calm part of the coastline. Start at Towan Beach and you will get to go to parts of the peninsula that you can normally only accessible by boat. You can go on a kayaking tour with Cornish Rock Tors.
Frenchman’s Creek, Helford river
Situated just off the Helford River, this trail is surrounded by oak trees, hidden coves and beaches. This is the creek that inspired the Daphne Du Maurier book, Frenchman’s creek. Go on a kayaking trip with Koru Kayaking who can take you from the Budock Vean Hotel across the Helford River and into the creek.
If you are looking to try new activities this year why not join our Fit Mind 50 challenge? It’s designed so anyone can do it, anywhere, and it’s free. Try 50 new things this year!
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