While the epic waves and golden sands at Mawgan Porth are ideal for a family beach day or surf session, it’s essential to be mindful of the natural risks that come with coastal conditions. To help you stay safe, our Surf Life Saving Club has compiled some vital tips for beach safety at Mawgan Porth. With these in mind, you can enjoy a safer day by the sea and make the most of your time here at North Cornwall’s most beautiful stretch of coast.
Beach Safety Essentials
1. Always Swim Between the Flags
- The red and yellow flags mark the safest area to swim, as they’re monitored by trained lifeguards. This area has been assessed to reduce exposure to strong currents and unexpected waves. Swimming between these flags is always the safest choice and allows lifeguards to assist quickly if needed. Mawgan Porth Beach has seasonal lifeguard cover; while swimming is generally safe, we advise you to always be careful, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer, as this is also a great surfing beach when the Atlantic swell comes in! Black and white chequered flags indicate an area zoned by lifeguards for the use of watercraft such as surfboards, bodyboards and kayaks. Red flags mean dangerous rip current activity is expected. The rip currents would be likely to be stronger and more frequent. It’s recommended to stay out of the water.
2. Understand the Tides and Rip Currents
- Mawgan Porth’s tides can change quickly, creating unpredictable conditions. It’s important to be aware of tide times to avoid getting cut off on sandbanks or near rocks. Rip currents are powerful channels of water that can pull even strong swimmers out to sea. If you find yourself caught in a rip current, don’t panic—float on your back to conserve energy, signal for help, and swim parallel to the shore to escape the current if you’re able.
3. Watch the Waves and Be Cautious of Shore Dumps
- Mawgan Porth can have strong shore breaks, known as “shore dumps,” which can knock people over and lead to injuries, especially in shallow areas. Always enter the water gradually and avoid diving headfirst into waves. Keep an eye on the wave patterns and never turn your back to the sea, as larger waves can come unexpectedly.
4. Stay Within Your Comfort Zone
- Know your limits. Mawgan Porth is an inviting beach for surfers and bodyboarders, but not every day is beginner-friendly. Be honest about your skill level and consider the surf conditions before getting in the water. If you’re new to surfing or swimming in the sea, stick to calmer days and the designated swimming areas.
5. Keep an Eye on Children at All Times
- For families with children, beach safety is all about staying vigilant. Even shallow water can pose risks, especially with changing tides. Make sure children swim within the red and yellow flags and are always supervised by an adult. To be extra safe, dress younger children in bright clothing or use wristbands with contact information in case of separation.
6. Stay Hydrated and Use Sun Protection
- A day at the beach isn’t only about water safety—sun and dehydration are real risks too! Make sure to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, especially if you’re planning on a long day outdoors. Apply sunscreen regularly, and don’t underestimate the importance of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the reflection off the water.
7. Respect the Local Wildlife and Environment
- Mawgan Porth is home to beautiful rock pools and a range of wildlife. While exploring, remember to respect local flora and fauna. Avoid disturbing any wildlife, and make sure to leave no litter behind. This not only protects the environment but also helps keep the beach safe for everyone.
8. Know What to Do in an Emergency
- In an emergency, knowing the proper actions can make all the difference. If you see someone in trouble in the water:
- Do not enter the water yourself—doing so can put you at risk as well.
- Signal to the lifeguards if they are present or call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
- Keep your eyes on the person in difficulty and wait for trained help to arrive.
9. Wear the Right Gear for Water Activities
- Whether you’re swimming, surfing, or paddleboarding, wearing the right gear helps keep you safe. For surfers, a leash attached to your board can prevent it from drifting away, especially in strong currents. In colder months, a wetsuit is also a good idea to avoid hypothermia. For activities like bodyboarding where waves are strong, add fins for more control in the water.
10. Engage with Our Local Lifeguards and Surf Life Savers
- Our lifeguards and club members are here to help! Don’t hesitate to approach them for advice on current conditions, potential hazards, or tips on safe beach practices. They have expert knowledge of Mawgan Porth’s unique conditions and are happy to help you enjoy the beach safely. For lifeguard patrol times, see the RNLI lifeguard info page for Mawgan Porth here.
Join Mawgan Porth Surf Life Saving Club
One of the best ways to teach your family about safety at the beach is joining your local surf life saving club. Here at Mawgan Porth we conduct weekly surf life-saving training sessions for local children at Mawgan Porth Beach.
These sessions, recognised by Surf Life Saving GB, impart vital water safety skills and enhance confidence, competence, and physical fitness for everyone involved. Through teamwork and responsibility, children will develop a sense of care for others, crucial for coastal environments. This training reduces drowning risks and enables safe water activity for all. Through our work, we aim to foster enjoyment and safety in the water for life. By providing comprehensive training programs, Mawgan Porth SLSC envisions producing highly skilled lifeguards who are capable of responding effectively in emergency situations.
Find out more about joining our club here.
