Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
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
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
300 m
Frequently asked questions
Porthmellon 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.
Porthmellon 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.
Porthmellon 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. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Porthmellon Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 300 metres.
Porthmellon 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.
Porthmellon 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.
Porthmellon Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Portuguese man o' war. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Porthmellon Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Porthmellon Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Porthmellon Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Gig Shed Cafe. Cuisines available: Cafe. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Porthmellon Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Cash, Headwear.
Porthmellon Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In summer, on calm days. The water is calmer in the morning.
Porthmellon Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs on lead only. Keep the area clean.
Porthmellon Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Porthmellon Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for water sports enthusiasts and families with children. Suitable for kayaking, windsurfing and quiet relaxation.
Porthmellon Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The St Mary-s Gig Club sheds and the Sailing Centre are located here. The beach is the water sports hub of the Isles of Scilly.
Porthmellon Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand, Turquoise water, Views of Tresco and Samson, Water sports centre, Kayak and windsurf hire, Beach cafe, Gig club. Cons: Limited infrastructure, Can be crowded in summer, Rocky areas after sea defence works, Dogs on lead only.
Porthmellon Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Hugh Town, Old Town, Tresco. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Porthmellon 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.