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Padstow Webcam, Tide Times & Sea Conditions

Exposure to the elements is what makes this stretch of Cornish coastline so exhilarating! Here's how to be aware of the conditions so you can enjoy your adventure safely...
White waves
White waves

live Webcams

Check out live views of Padstow sea conditions via this webcam, provided by Padstow Harbour Commissioners.

Come rain or shine keep an eye on conditions as they happen, from wherever you are. This fantastic webcam overlooks the entrance gate to the inner harbour. 

Padstow Harbour

Rock Estuary

Tide times

The beach can feel like the ultimate playground, ideal for making memories with friends and family. However, it’s important to watch the tide and remember how easily the tide can catch you out.  The tide comes in surprisingly quickly, isolating areas of the coastline. As the tide moves up and down the beach, the depth of the water changes throughout the day, sometimes by as much as ten metres.

It’s great to begin the habit of checking the tide times before you head to the coast. When you arrive, take note of the tide’s direction and be aware of this when you set up camp. This way, you’ll have all of the fun and none of the drama! 

Sea Conditions

Checking in on the sea conditions is a great way to know what to expect out in the water. Wind direction, wind speed and wave height are worth checking before your adventure, so you can be prepared for all weathers.

Windfinder is our go-to website for an in depth forecast of sea conditions in Padstow and the River Camel. With data at three hourly intervals, Windfinder shows you the wind direction, wind speed, wave direction, wave height and much more. We love geeking out on the science behind Cornwall’s weather patterns!

It also has a handy colour-coded system, so even if the numbers mean nothing to you, you can see when conditions are good or bad.

Remember to come prepared for all weathers on our boat trips.

Suncream, sunglasses and sun hats will help protect you from overexposure to the sun. The weather can change quickly, so still bring waterproofs and layers. 
Wrap up warm with jumpers and coats. Grippy shoes and a waterproof bag for any items you bring with you are advised. 
Thick layers and windproof jackets will keep you comfortable when the boat reaches speeds of up to 25 knots out on the open water.
Temperatures drop quickly once we’re out at sea. Bring warm layers, gloves, a scarf and a hat if you’re prone to feeling the cold. 
Darkl blue waves
Darkl blue waves
Wooden front door of no.6 restaurant
Looking over Padstow from the coastal walk. People walk ahead on the path on a blue sky day

Things to do in Padstow

Whether you’re staying on dry land or fancy getting your feet wet, there is plenty to see and do in Padstow. Stay in town to browse the eclectic mix of shops and have a bite to eat at the fantastic cafes and restaurants championing local produce. Wander through the picturesque Padstow and enjoy all the charms this historical seaside town has to offer.

Dating back to as far as 2500BC, Padstow’s large natural harbour provided Cornwall with a  connection to the rest of the world, and continues to attract visitors today. Some traditions show no sign of slowing down, and we’re famed for our yearly ‘Obby Oss’ festival, bringing folklore celebrations to the town. 

Padstow is surrounded by sweeping expanses of golden sandy beaches. Experience the breathtaking scenery of North Cornwall by walking the South West Coast Path or cycling the Camel Trail. Or hop over to Rock on the ferry and enjoy the delights across the water.

explore our all weather boat trips

Padstow Sealife Safari rib from the front out at sea. People on the boat looking at dolphin popping out of water on the left of the image.

2 Hour Sealife Safari Boat Trip

Adult:
£42.50
Child:
£32.50
Our most popular tour. The Cornish coastline also hosts a myriad of seabirds as well as other wildlife including seals and dolphins.
Animal lovers of all ages
2 Hours
seal safari banner 1

1 Hour Seal Safari Boat Trip

Adult:
£27.50
Child:
£20.00
A 1 hour voyage following the rugged coastline to spot seals popping out of the water to say hello or having a laze on the rocks.
Seal lovers of all ages
1 Hour
Front of a Padstow sealife boat with dolphins at the bow. Person taking photo from the boat window.

3 Hour Explorers Safari Boat Trip

Adult:
£55
Travel further along the coast and further offshore with our 3-4 hour explorers safari in search of wildlife and places of interest.
Wildlife Enthusiasts
3 Hours
Four puffins stood on black rocks with seaweed looking out at sea.

1 Hour Puffin Safari Boat Trip

Adult:
£27.50
Child:
£20.00
This trip is all about the birds. We visit nearby “Puffin Island” where we look our for seabirds including razorbills, Guillemots and of course, puffins!
Puffin lovers of all ages
1 Hour
Guests on a Padstow Sealife Safari by the rocks.

1 Hour Camel Estuary RIB Tour

Adult:
£25.00
Child:
£18.00
Come and explore the Camel Estuary from its gentle meandering course further upriver, to where waves build as it meets the wild Atlantic.
Local History Lovers
1 Hour
isles of scilly boat trip

Isles of Scilly Day Trip

Adult:
£185
An unique and exciting boat ride along the North Cornwall coast to spend a day soaking in the unspoilt beauty of the Scilly Isles
Culture-loving explorers
12 Hours