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With plenty of character and coastal beauty, there are some fantastic things to do in Porthleven. This charming fishing town is a brilliant year-round destination, whether you’re meandering around its traditional harbour, beach-hopping the rugged coastline, or sampling Cornwall’s famous seafood.
We’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Porthleven below, so you can plan the perfect Cornish escape.
Looking for a specific activity? Use the quick links below, or read on for our full guide on the best things to do in Porthleven, Cornwall.
Porthleven has a thriving foodie scene, with an impressive selection of restaurants offering everything from fine dining to relaxed waterfront bites. Here are our top 5 places to eat in Porthleven:
With bright interiors and a laid-back vibe, Amélie is inspired by Mediterranean flavours and coastal living. Expect wood-fired pizzas, seafood platters, and fresh cocktails.
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Located right on the harbour, this award-winning restaurant, courtesy of chef Jude Kereama, blends Cornish produce with Asian and Maori influences. Think scallops with miso, tempura oysters, and perfectly cooked local fish.
A bold and colourful spot by the water, Cantina serves up globally inspired street food with an emphasis on fresh, vibrant flavours. Share some tapas-style small plates, or treat yourself to no-nonsense comfort food like dirty fries, burgers and tacos.
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Located in the heart of Porthleven overlooking the harbour, this cosy bistro serves refined yet comforting dishes using Cornish ingredients. In the summer, snag a table on the terrace for harbour views. In winter, tuck into a warming fish pie with a glass of wine.
A traditional pub with cosy interiors, sea views, and a menu packed with comforting favourites. Perfect for a post-beach pint or a Sunday roast.
Check out our guide on the best restaurants in Cornwall for even more great places to eat.
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Cornwall is famous for its beaches, and Porthleven doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re after dramatic cliffs, peaceful coves or long stretches of sand, there’s a beach to match your mood.
Backed by the town and stretching nearly three miles eastward towards Loe Bar, Porthleven Beach is popular with surfers, dog walkers, and beachcombers. It’s dog-friendly all year, with only a seasonal ban from 1st July to 31st August at the town end of the beach. Be careful swimming here at low tide and when the seas are rough.
If you’re looking for a secluded spot, then Nichols Cove is the place to be. Just a short walk along the South West Coast Path from Porthleven Harbour, this small cove is ideal for swimming and snorkelling due to its clear, calm waters.
Although a little further afield, Dollar Cove is a short 20-minute drive from Porthleven. This sandy beach is straight out of Poldark and sits next to a medieval church. Dollar Cove is ideal for families as it has safe swimming areas and plenty of space for a game of rounders or cricket.
Rinsey Cove, or Porthcew Beach, is a more remote option nestled beneath cliffs. Located just 10 minutes by car from Porthleven, it has calm waters and golden sands, making it a favourite for locals and visitors seeking tranquillity and gorgeous views.
Heading to a seaside town in Cornwall wouldn’t be complete without trying your hand at some water sports. Whether you’re a beginner looking to take up a new hobby or a seasoned pro, Vertical Blue Adventures has you covered.
They offer everything from sea kayaking and paddleboarding to wild swimming and coasteering sessions. All their activities take place around Porthleven’s rugged coastline and are sure to keep you and your loved ones entertained.
Read our guides to kayaking in Cornwall and climbing in Cornwall for more information on how you can get started.
Porthleven Harbour Market is a treasure trove of local produce, vintage finds, and artisan crafts. The market is open on Tuesdays, Thursday and Sundays during the Summer, from 10 am to 5 pm. With a stunning coastal location and the sizeable indoor Shipyard Market, you’re sure to find something special come rain or shine.
What better way to experience Porthleven than by taking it in from the water? Porthleven Boat Trips offers you the perfect mix of coastal cruises and sea-fishing, should you wish. Or you could even charter a little boat yourself and enjoy the open waters independently.
Our full guide has plenty more options for boat trips in Cornwall.
One of the most obvious things to do in Porthleven is to explore the impressive harbour. Known for its fishing heritage, shipbuilding past, and stunning views, it’s well worth the stroll. From sunrise to sunset, Porthleven Harbour offers a peaceful place to wonder, enjoy some fish and chips, or simply watch fishing boats bobbing while the world goes by.
If you’re looking for things to do near Porthleven, a scenic walk to Loe Pool is a must. Loe Pool is Cornwall’s largest natural freshwater lake, separated from the sea by a shingle bar known as Loe Bar Beach. This incredible lake offers visitors a mix of woodland, marshland and coast, making it a varied landscape and a scenic day out.
While you’re there, take a look at the National Trust-owned Penrose Estate, complete with a cafe for a post-walk treat. If the National Trust is your sort of thing, read our guide to National Trust properties in Cornwall for more holiday inspiration!
Porthleven is home to several independent galleries and shops selling work by Cornish artists, including the works of local photographers and ceramic makers, as well as a host of sea-themed gifts. Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir, a gift for a loved one, or simply browsing, be sure to take a look at Four Crows Gallery and Custom House Gallery.
If you’re travelling to Cornwall in April, be sure to attend one of the region’s best-loved foodie events, the Porthleven Food Festival. Throughout the festival, you can expect chef demos, food stalls, live music, and a brilliant family-friendly atmosphere.
Porthleven is known for its waves, so why not experience the raw power of nature by watching storms roll in from the Atlantic? The harbour provides a safe vantage point to witness dramatic waves crashing against the shore and Porthleven’s iconic tower. Don’t forget your waterproof!
Whether you’re here for a weekend break or a week-long adventure, Porthleven is packed with things to see and do. Come hungry, bring your walking boots, and prepare to fall in love with one of Cornwall’s most charming harbour towns. From quaint cottages with sea views to dog-friendly abodes with enclosed gardens, there’s a holiday home for everyone with Cornish Cottage Holidays.
Hi, I’m Claudia, a Marketing Executive who's been writing South West travel content for 3 years. I have lived in the South West ...
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As 2026 approaches, it’s time to look ahead and see what events are happening in Cornwall this year! Cornwall...
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