Caradon
The RNLI district of Caradon is made up of four beaches that run along Whitsand bay: Tregonhawke, Freathy, Sharrow and Tregantle. The district is named after Caradon Hill, which is the main landmark of the area and was once famous for its copper mines. There are great views from the top and abandoned engine houses still litter the landscape here. Check with the lifeguards before swimming as this bay is well known for its rip currents.
Tregonhawke is the main beach here, with toilets, a nearby surf school and Eddystone Café at the bottom of Tregonhawke cliff. Open between ten and six, Eddystone's does a roaring trade in the summer months and is renowned for its all day breakfasts. Dogs are allowed on Tregonhawke all year round, though have to be kept on a lead in the summer.
Next along the coast is Freathy, a ramshackle little place that is unique because of the scatterings of holiday apartments, sheds and shacks that litter its hillside. Hundreds of completely different units at various levels of disrepair lend this village a higgledy piggledy look and add to its eccentric Cornish charm, making Freathy an entertaining place to wander around because there's just so much to see. The beach here is perfect for Frisbee and rounders as there's so much space, and there's plenty of wildlife to be spotted on this relatively undisturbed stretch of coast..
Further along to the west is Sharrow, the mid point of Whitsand Bay. This south facing beach is a real sun trap, though not always recommended for swimming - always check with the lifeguards before entering the water. With high cliffs to the rear, Sharrow has a real air of seclusion and is a wonderful place to relax and get away from it all. When conditions are safe, wade out to the outcrops of rock to see what marine life can be found, and remember to keep an eye out for seals playing in the water as they are frequently spotted around these parts.
Furthest West is Tregantle, which is home to Tregantle Fort, a working firing range that is owned by the Ministry of Defence. During firing operations this section of the beach is closed to the public and these times are clearly indicated by a red flag and locked gates. However, when no red flag is flying, it is perfectly safe to walk through the fort, taking heed of safety notices. The views from the top of the cliffs here are extraordinary, stretching out all the way towards Rayme Head, and the hour long walk towards this promontory is highly recommended, especially in the spring and summer when the coast path is rich with wild flowers and butterflies.
Author: Chelsey Flood © Coastal Britain 2007