Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
300 m
Frequently asked questions
Porthcressa Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +15.0°C, warms up to +18.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Porthcressa Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Porthcressa Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Porthcressa Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 300 metres.
Porthcressa Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Porthcressa Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Porthcressa Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Portuguese man o' war, jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Porthcressa Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Porthcressa Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Porthcressa Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Dibble & Grub. Cuisines available: Mediterranean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Porthcressa Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Headwear.
Porthcressa Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning when the water is calmer and there are fewer people. The beach is sheltered from northerly winds.
Porthcressa Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Keep the area clean, do not leave litter.
Porthcressa Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to calm water and the promenade. Suitable for a quick swim near Hugh Town.
Porthcressa Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is sheltered from northerly winds, making the water calm and safe for swimming. The promenade is wheelchair and pushchair accessible.
Porthcressa Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Golden sand, Calm water, Promenade along the beach, Playground nearby, Toilets and showers, Cafes on the promenade, 10 minutes from ferry. Cons: Can be crowded, Limited parking, Rocky areas on the shore, No lifeguards.
Porthcressa Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Hugh Town, Old Town, Tresco. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Porthcressa Beach: how do I get to the city of Isles of Scilly?
The beach is located near the city of Isles of Scilly. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Isles of Scilly.