Kynance Cove, located on the mesmerising Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, is a true gem of the South West England coast. While Cornwall itself is renowned for its natural beauty and stunning landscapes, Kynance Cove takes it to another level.
In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through this coastal paradise sharing our photos and experience of our recent visit, with a particular focus on visiting in the magical month of September.
Kynance Cove: A Hidden Gem in Cornwall
Kynance Cove, often dubbed as one of the “Hidden gems in Cornwall,” is a place where nature’s artistry shines brightly. Its crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and golden sandy beaches make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore coastal walks, or simply bask in Cornwall’s natural beauty, Kynance Cove has it all. However, if you’re looking to get the place to yourself or with a lot fewer people, then the end of September could be a great time to visit.
Why September is the Perfect Time to Visit
Visiting Kynance Cove in September offers a unique experience. The summer crowds have dwindled, providing a more tranquil atmosphere to enjoy this coastal wonder. The weather remains pleasant, with the sun still making regular appearances, but without the scorching heat of July and August. It’s an ideal time for leisurely walks, wildlife spotting, and capturing stunning photos.
Having read stories of the road to Kynance Cove being closed a couple of summers ago, due to a flock of tourists and visitors keen to experience and photograph Kynance Cove, we gave it a miss the last two summers. It was on our list of places we must visit and as we headed towards the end of September this year with the weather drastically cooling, we thought it would be safe to visit at this time of year without it being overrun.
We were right! We visited on the very last day of September and being a Saturday there were probably more tourists than a weekday at this time of year, but it wasn’t overrun in the morning at all. Things were picking up quite a bit when we left mid-afternoon.
Another bonus of visiting in September is that although the weather is cooling, it’s not quite freezing yet, so if it’s dry you can still sit on the beach or outside the cafe and soak up the views.
Kynance Cove: A Photographer’s Dream
We saw a LOT of professional photographers during our visit and I am not surprised. If you’re a photography enthusiast, Kynance Cove in September can be a dream for picturesque and other-worldly rock landscapes in the UK.
The clear, azure waters contrast beautifully with the rugged rocks and green cliffs, creating picture-perfect moments at every turn. The interplay of light and shadow on the beach during this time adds a magical touch to your photographs.
Plus, the beach is relatively quiet compared to the summer holidays and spring, so there are fewer people to contend with for landscape photography, especially if you arrive first thing.
Unfortunately, I am not a professional photographer, but I took the best photos I could with my phone on an overcast day. Even though it was mainly cloudy, I was still amazed by the beauty of this place. I can only imagine how stunning it looks on a sunny day with the light sparkling off the water and the turquoise sea and green colours all around more vibrant.
As you arrive from the National Trust car park and see the first view, it really is a sight to behold. I exclaimed “Wow, that’s amazing!” to my husband! He has visited before with my son and camped nearby, but it was my first visit to Kynance Cove and the rock formations and overall scenic sights are really something in real life!
My pictures don’t do the scenery justice, but hopefully, they still reveal how amazing this place is and why it’s a photographer’s paradise.
Helpful Kynance Cove Visitor Information
- Getting There: Kynance Cove is accessible by car and is approximately 30 minutes from Helston, a charming town in Cornwall. It’s also worth noting that Kynance Cove is managed by the National Trust in Cornwall, ensuring its preservation and protection.
- Parking: There is a National Trust car park available, but it can get busy during peak hours, so arriving early is advisable. There is an overflow car park. This was closed when we arrived but opened by the time we left. We arrived at around 11 a.m. on the last Saturday in September and left around 3.30 p.m. There seemed to be a lot of visitors arriving at this time, maybe for an after-lunch walk?!
- Want a discount as a new National Trust member? Use my link to sign up for TopCashback for free and see the latest savings at National Trust here: https://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/victoriasully/national-trust
- Access: While there are clear paths down to the beach and cafe, the location is reasonably hilly. We accessed the beach from the nearest point to the car park and climbed over large pebbles and giant round rocks which would not be a suitable entrance point for anyone with mobility issues. However, there is a path around a different way that comes out by the cafe to avoid walking over the wobbly rocks.
- Facilities: Kynance Cove offers basic facilities such as toilets and a café, however, it’s a good idea to check the opening times for the season you visit. The kids ate at Knynance Cove Cafe (jacket potatoes with beans and vegan butter).
My husband and I ate at Ellie’s Soul Kitchen, a pop-up caravan eatery with lots of vegan food, just a short walk along the road. We enjoyed a vegan-friendly dahl and jackfruit shawarma… oh and some ginger beer, coffee and the most delicious vegan chocolate salted caramel torte! HIGHLY recommended!
It was the last weekend of the season for the pop-up food caravan until April, so do check opening times when you visit and possibly take your own refreshments if needed.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Kynance Cove in September
Exploring Kynance Cove in September is a delightful experience that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquillity, and photographic opportunities.
As a hidden gem in Cornwall, it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary when you’re in the area. Don’t forget your camera and your sense of adventure, and prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery and serene atmosphere.
If you have time, then it’s a short drive to Lizard Point, the most southerly point of mainland Britain which is also worth a visit and you may even spot a seal or two!
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor to Cornwall, Kynance Cove promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of what this region has to offer. So, pack your bags, head towards Helston and the Lizard peninsula, and immerse yourself in the enchantment of Kynance Cove.
How to save money on a National Trust membership
We love our National Trust membership, especially living in Cornwall as there are so many beach car parks near to our home which are National Trust car parks, so we definitely get our money’s worth!
To get a discount on your National Trust annual membership when you first sign up, check out TopCashback as they often have a great deal. Use my link to sign up for TopCashback for free and see the latest savings at National Trust here: https://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/victoriasully/national-trust
National Trust has numerous attractions such as historic houses and gardens which you can visit around the UK. If you love the outdoors and exploring, then visiting at least one location per month should mean you get your money’s worth, particularly for the places with a chargeable entry which you’ll get free by being a National Trust member.
