Intro Home to Britain's longest running surf contest, the Cornish & Open, Porthtowan has some of the most consistent surf conditions in the area. Only 5 miles south of St Agnes, Porthtowan is a small town situated right on the beach. The area suffered in the past from a run down appearance, but in recent years there has been a major regeneration, and the town has improved immensly. The beach itself is the main asset, with its steep cliffs on either side of the bay, and views to St Ives in the south. At low tide the beach stretches for miles in either direction, but take extreme care when walking along the shore, as the sea rushes in fast, and it's easy to be cut off by the tide. Best conditions Porthtowan is one of the only beaches in the area that can be surfed right through high tide. Low tide can be heavy in big swells. The best stage of the tide is mid to high when the best sand bars are exposed. Best wind direction is anything between south and easterly.  Parking There is a large car park right next to the beach which charges in the summer months. If you're lucky there are a few spaces in front of the Blue Bar, overlooking the sea. The road down to the beach is no parking in the summer, but October to May you can park where you like. The police DO hand out tickets in the summer. Route Head south on the A30. At the Chiverton Cross roundabout (Little Chef), turn right on the B3277 towards St Agnes. After 1 mile take the left turn signposted Porthtowan. At the bottom of the hill turn right into the town. Food & Drink There are several pubs in the village, and a cafe/takeaway next to the surf shop. Right on the beach is the excellent Blue Bar with its quality cuisine, good atmosphere and multi screen tv showing Extreme Sports Channel most of the day. Live music at the wekends. Shops Tris Surf Shop seems to have been there forever, and owners Johnny and Lisa are always on hand for sound advise. This is a real surf shop with few frills. Alongside the usual gear the shop offers surf lessons, and hires boards and wetsuits. No surf options There's plenty to do in the area. The coastal walks are amazing, or there are the many tourist attractions to visit. Truro is only 8 miles inland, and the nearest major town is Redruth 5 miles away. Places to stay There are campsites in the area, as well as limited self catering apartments close to the beach. Hotels are few. Webcam www.blue-bar.co.uk

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