Porthtowan is a sandy beach located on the north coast of Cornwall. It's known for its powerful waves and is a popular spot among surfers and bodyboarders. The beach can get pretty busy, especially in the summer, but it’s a classic surf destination with easy access and beachfront parking, making it a go-to for local surfers and visitors alike.

This beach generally works well through the tides, with the optimal swell direction coming from the West. It can handle swell sizes from about 2ft (0.6m) all the way up to 12ft (3.7m), making it suitable for intermediates looking for a challenge. Low and mid tides are often the best times to surf. You can catch both lefts and rights here, but when the swell is big, be mindful of the strong rips and the tendency of the waves to close out. During low tide, Lushingtons to the south can provide fast, hollow lefts that are a favorite for bodyboarders, while the main beach has its fair share of good long walls and fast tubes at the right conditions. Preferred wind directions are southeast, which can help keep the surf clean.

The beach can be a bit sketchy after heavy rains, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the weather. The crowd factor is generally large year-round, and there's a long-established local crew, so it's best to show some respect in the water. Whether you're on a shortboard, funboard, longboard, fish, or bodyboard, Porthtowan can offer something for everyone, with the best surfing typically seen in the autumn months.