Penhale Dunes
The amazing Atlantic facing sand dunes at Penhale are classed as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Penhale is one of the largest dune systems in Cornwall, spanning 620 hectares.
With sand dunes listed as the habitat most at risk in Europe for biodiversity loss, it’s an incredibly important area to protect for nature.
With sand dunes listed as the habitat most at risk in Europe for biodiversity loss, it’s an incredibly important area to protect for nature.
Know before you go
Dogs
Pease ensure you pick up after your dog and do not allow them to disturb the wildlife.
When to visit
Opening times
Open at all timesBest time to visit
Beautiful beach sunsets at duskAbout the reserve
Penhale Dunes is not owned by Cornwall Wildlife Trust, but it’s a site where the Trust work in partnership with other landowners, including.
- Perran Sands Holiday Park (management of Gear Sands)
- Ministry of Defence. The military training area is used for a variety of training activities and its boundaries are marked by red and white posts. There are no public footpaths through the site, but the South West Coast Path runs alongside the Western boundary.
- Perranzabuloe Parish Council (land near Perranporth Beach)
- Perranporth golf club
- St Pirans Trust who own scheduled ancient monuments (St Pirans Oratory and Church).