General

"Arthur's Beach" is located between Pennance Point and Newporth Head about one 1mile south west of Swanpool Beach on the western outskirts of Falmouth. It is said to have more naturist users than some other, better-known, naturist beaches in the area.

Getting There

Google Maps

By car: from Falmouth, drive out to Swanpool and park.

(Falmouth can also be reached by train, with a regular service from Truro. Alight at 'Falmouth Town' Station and walk south-westwards past Swanpool Point to Swanpool Beach)

About 200 metres south of Swanpool, at a right-hand bend, the coast path diverges from the road. Follow this footpath - resisting the temptation to take any short-cuts through the undergrowth - for about half a mile until you reach an obelisk dedicated to the Homeguard of WW2.

Just beyond the memorial (about 2 metres) and on the opposite side of the path another narrower path leads down toward the sea. Follow this for 400 meteres and you arrive at the outer edge of Arthurs Beach. A small length of rope is there to help people get down the final 4 feet of steep path to the beach. Then head westwards (right) to the first Naturist section.

Going on further westwards, across a flat rocky outcrop brings you out onto the larger and more spacious second naturist section of the beach.

Description

The beach (which is not overlooked) consists of pebbles - so windbreaks are difficult to use and some form of mat to sit or lie on is recommended.

The first naturist section said to be frequented by "Old Boys, Couples and some topless women". The second, larger, area tends to be frequented by gay men, younger couples and sometimes a few clothed alternative young couples.

There is some passing sea traffic going to and from Falmouth and some boats are said to anchor off the beach so that their occupants can go nude swimming.

Other Beaches in the Area

A little further south westwards from this beach, a beach near Rosemullion Head has long been reputedly used by naturists. Its popularity may have declined significantly, however, since it is now overlooked by a popular section of the South-West Coast Path.

Selected Visitor Comments

September 30, 2007 - "...one week end there were 6 couples [and] 12 others... secluded and away from coast path and not over looked, and the view is great.. you must check tides, An excellent place to go be naked and enjoy the sun and view..."

August 21, 2009 - "Spent all of today at Arthurs beach - what a lovely place. Although there were more textiles than non. I did have good privacy for most of the day. The fishing from the rocks to the left of the path is very good - never tried nude fishing before, it was great fun (careful with the hooks though!). The far end of the beach does get cut off at high tide so beware, and do take something to lay on as the coarse gravel on the beach can be pain ater a while. The sea there is very nice too for a swim. I shall be back soon!"