Perranporth Spring Tide September 2025
Perranporth is one of Cornwall’s biggest and most popular beaches, well-loved by locals and visitors alike. At low tide, it reveals three miles of golden sand, beautifully split in two by the shallow Perrncoombe Stream that gently winds its way across the shore. During the summer months, the beach is packed with holidaymakers, who spread out across the sand, creating a vibrant sea of colourful umbrellas, towels, and windbreaks. However, during a high spring tide, the beach vanishes completely. The sea swallows up the entire three miles of sand, reaching all the way up to the car park in the town—and on rare occasions, it even creeps beyond that point!
A local gig rowing team out for training in the high tide.
High tide on the 10th of September was at approximately 8pm, and while it wasn’t the highest tide of the entire year, it was still impressive enough to fill the bay right up to the town’s car park. A small group of people had gathered there, drawn by the stunning sight, to watch the immense tide slowly roll in and transform the familiar landscape.
Braving the rough seas.
As I was patiently waiting for the tide to shift, I noticed this couple at the far end of the beach having some photos taken just after their wedding. The scene was beautiful, but I had to clone out a large number of people to capture a more intimate moment. This shot isn’t perfect up close, as I had to use my 200mm lens at 280mm with an extender, handheld with no stabilization, all while battling strong winds! Despite these challenges, I still love the photo and am hopeful to connect with the couple through social media to share this image with them.
Perranporth Beach Wedding.
Once the tide had fully come in, I spent a moment near the bridge that spans the small stream flowing through the beach. Interestingly, this bridge was now just below sea level! While I was there, two people emerged from the sea and took advantage of the waves as they broke and rolled over the bridge, creating a lively and joyful scene.
Making the most of the high tide.
Something caught their eye?
It’s quite a while until the next spring tide arrives, but I’m really hoping to get down here again when it does. I’d love to try some longer exposures over the bridge as the tide gradually reaches it, capturing the movement in a more dramatic way.
Spring tide at Perrnaporth making a splash!