Gwithian
OS Grid ref:- SW585412
Gwithian Churchtown is a small village between Hayle and Portreath with a low towered fifteenth century church and an inn. A highly popular spot among artists it boasts a number of picture postcard style thatched cottages.
The village was named after the obscure St. Gwthian, who was patron saint of good fortune on the sea.
The beach and sand dunes form part of a large expanse which stretches from Hayle. The beach, or towans as it is known locally, is a favoured spot of surfers and sand yachters and there is a lifeguard present throughout the summer. The area is a popular spot for camping and caravan holidays and has a number of sites.
A fifth century church and the relics of St. Gwithian were uncovered on the beach itself in the last century but reclaimed by the shifting sands. The beach also covers the remains of a Bronze Age farm.