How to find Polly Joke?
Polly Joke, or Porth Joke, if you want to use its more formal name, isn’t easy to get to, but then that is part of its appeal making it more secluded and less busy throughout the year. It can be accessed from West Pentire, via a stunning walk along the coast path or down a steep grassy path. Alternatively, you can reach it from the edge of Cubert Common, park in the National Trust car park (free for members) and follow the path through the wooded valley, edged by the stream that winds its way down and along the beach to the open sea.
What are the best walks near Polly Joke?
The circular walk from the car park at West Pentire is my favourite ever, taking in the views of Trevose Head and the lighthouse to the North, the secrets of Vugga Cove, the precarious blowhole at West Pentire Headland, hidden quarries and the spectacular views across to Polly Joke. In June the fields above the beach have become a very popular spot for locals and tourists to take photos and enjoy the vibrance of the red and yellow of the poppies and marigolds. If you want longer walks, park at Crantock Beach and walk along the beach to join the coast path at low tide, or go South and park at Holywell Bay, where the coast path will pass the most secluded cove, chosen by our grey seals to rear their pups.
What is there to do at Polly Joke?
The stream that joins the beach under the wooden footbridge is great for paddling in and safe for younger children to explore. At low tide, there are a few small caves to explore and a hidden cove to relax in. Swimming is great here and surfing when the waves are up, but be aware that it is not a lifeguarded beach and the current and rips can be very strong.
Is Polly Joke any good for surfing?
The mouth of the cove isn’t big, so it’s not a great beach for the experienced surfer. More novice surfers can enjoy a few waves, but the more experienced surfer would choose Crantock or Hollywell beaches just around the headland to the North and South.
Is there a beach cafe at Polly Joke?
A picnic or a Cornish pasty is a must-take to Polly Joke. It is beautiful for its remoteness, so there is no cafe nearby. The nearest pub with food is The Bowgie in at West Pentire next to the car parks.
Is Polly Joke good for small children?
If you use the National Trust car park on the edge of Cubert Common, which is accessed through Treago Farm Caravan and Camping site and at the end of a long gravel drive, the beach is at a walkable distance for small children and robust buggies. Although I have seen it done, I would not recommend parking at West Pentire and taking buggies down the footpath to the beach. Although the footpath is grass and wide and very safe, the hill is long and very steep. Once there, the beach and stream with wild watercress growing are a lovely spot for younger children to explore with the family.
Are there lifeguards at Polly Joke?
There are no lifeguards at Polly Joke, so extra care and safety is needed when going into the water here.
Is Polly Joke dog friendly?
There is no ban on dogs at Polly Joke and the beach is enjoyed by dog walkers throughout the year. In summer the beach, even at low tide, is not huge so the beach alone isn’t a long walk, but combined with a walk down to the beach and back and the coast path, it makes a fantastic place for dogs to enjoy. Please be aware that in places the coast path North and South of the beach is very close to the edge of the cliffs.
What good campsites are close to Polly Joke?
There are two campsites within walking distance of the beach.
