Nanjizal Beach

Nanjizal Beach, is known for its secluded location, stunning waters and its famous ‘Song of the Sea Cave’. It is a hidden gem in Cornwall, with crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and stunning scenery. It really is a peaceful and unspoiled location.

The beach is famous for its unique rock formations, including the impressive ‘Song of the Sea cave’. This cave is named after the melodious sounds created by the waves crashing against the rocks, resembling a song.

Nanjizal Beach is also part of the South West Coast Path, making it an excellent starting point for coastal walks and hikes along the rugged Cornish coastline. The scenery along this path is truly breathtaking.

The area around Nanjizal Beach is also known for its diverse marine and bird life. Seabirds can often be spotted along the cliffs, and the clear waters make it a great spot for exploring marine life.

The four-part Doctor Who serial “The Smugglers” was filmed on Nanjizal beach on 19 June 1966; in which “The TARDIS” materialises on a beach.

Wildlife at Nanjizal

Nanjizel is within the Porthgwarra to Pordenack Point Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Breeding birds include common chiffchaff, common whitethroat, dunnock, Eurasian blackcap, Eurasian wren and sedge warbler.

Other birds found include brambling, cirl bunting, common grasshopper warbler, Eurasian siskin, lesser redpoll and subalpine warbler.

Exploring the rocky pools and crevices during low tide can reveal a diverse array of marine life, such as crabs, sea anemones, sea snails, and small fish. Grey seals are known to frequent the waters off the Cornish coast, and it’s possible to spot them swimming or basking on the rocks near Nanjizal Beach.

Various fish species can be found in the waters, including wrasse, pollack, and gobies. Occasionally, larger marine species like dogfish and rays can be found in the waters off the Cornish coast, including around Nanjizal.

Walks around Nanjizal

Nanjizal Beach to Land’s End: This walk offers stunning views of rugged cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s approximately a 3-mile hike and provides opportunities to see diverse birdlife and wildflowers along the way.

Nanjizal Beach to Porthcurno: Around 3.5 mile walk, taking you to the nearby Porthcurno Beach, which is known for its white sands and the Minack Theatre.

Why is it called Nanjizal Beach?

Nanjizal in Cornish is Porth Nansusel, meaning “cove of the howling valley”.

Which beach in the UK has a waterfall and cave?

With a lovely little waterfall, white sands and beautiful crystal clear waters, Nanjizal Beach in Cornwall is a hidden gem. It is also home to the wonderful ‘Song of the Sea Cave’.

Can you swim at Nanjizal?

Yes, its beautiful waters are ideal for swimming on a calm day. However please note the beach at Nanjizal goes completely underwater at high tide and the sea cave is only accessible at low tide.

Is Nanjizal Beach busy?

What makes Nanjizal particularly special is that it is never usually busy as it is completely off the beaten track and can only be accessed on foot. It sits on the South West Costal path between the stunning Land’s End and Porthcurno beach.

How long does it take to walk from Lands End to Nanjizal Beach?

Heading North, the walk takes around an hour, along the South West Coastal Path from Porthgwarra Beach to Nanjizal Beach. Or you can follow the path South from Land’s End and make it to Nanjizal in around half an hour.

Address: Nanjizal beach, St Just, Penzance TR19 6JJ

Parking: There is no parking near Nanjizal beach. You will need to park and walk over to Mill’s Bay. If you’re taking the South West Coast Path, there is parking at Porthgwarra Cove and Land’s End.

Facilities: There are no toilets or facilities at the beach. The closest town to Nanjizal is St Just which has shops, toilets, cafes and restaurants.

Remember to check Nanjizal beach tide times as the beach disappears during high tide, also check the weather forecast year round as there is no real shelter.

Dogs: Dogs are allowed all year on Nanjizal Beach.