Here’s our ultimate guide to where to go crabbing (and rock pooling!) within easy reach of Perran Springs.
- Perranporth Beach & The Gannel Estuary – Local and Loved
Just minutes away, Perranporth Beach is a fantastic starting point for beginners and families. Head to the rocks around Chapel Rock at low tide for a mix of sandy pools and rock crevices filled with small shore crabs.
If you’re up for a short drive, the Gannel Estuary near Newquay is another brilliant spot – calmer waters, rich wildlife, and great for a half-day trip with a picnic.
Top Tip: Go just before or after high tide for the best crab activity. Bring bacon rind or leftover fish for bait – the crabs love it!
- Trevellas Cove – Rock Pooling Paradise
Tucked between Perranporth and St Agnes, Trevellas Cove is one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets for rock pooling. The pools here are bursting with life: crabs, starfish, blennies, and anemones all call this cove home.
It’s a bit more rugged than nearby beaches, so wear sturdy shoes and check the tides before heading out.
Why go: Quiet, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful – perfect for curious kids and nature lovers.
- Fowey Harbour – Charming and Consistent
Around 50 minutes from Perran Springs, Fowey offers a charming riverside setting that’s ideal for a relaxed crabbing session. Head to Caffa Mill slipway or Town Quay, where the water is calm and the crabs are plentiful.
Combine it with a ferry trip to Polruan or explore Fowey’s boutique shops and cafés. It’s a great spot for a slow-paced family afternoon.
Best for: Laid-back crabbing with a touch of Cornish charm.
- Looe – Cornwall’s Crabbing Capital
Looe is hands-down one of the best places to go crabbing in all of Cornwall. The town is split into East and West by the river, and both sides offer fantastic opportunities to reel in dozens of crabs.
Crabbing is especially good near the fish market on East Looe quay, or for families with little ones, the calmer Millpool area in West Looe is perfect.
Bonus: Ice cream, arcades, and proper Cornish fish & chips are never more than a few steps away.
Best for: Guaranteed crabbing success and family fun all in one place.
- Padstow – Picture-perfect Harbour Fun
A 35-minute drive north of Perran Springs, Padstow combines postcard-perfect scenery with excellent crabbing. Head to the inner harbour walls near the ferry jetty for some of the best spots.
Crabbing is popular here, especially during school holidays, but there’s plenty of space to find your own patch.
Make a day of it: Treat yourself to Rick Stein’s fish & chips, grab a Roskilly’s ice cream, or stroll along the Camel Trail for riverside views.
Best for: Couples and families looking for classic Cornish charm with a side of crab catching.
Crabbing Tips & What to Bring
Gear: Crabbing line, bucket with seawater and seaweed, net (optional), and some tasty bait (raw bacon, chicken skin, or fish heads work well).
Best time: Just before or after high tide. Morning or early evening tends to be most peaceful.
Be kind: Don’t overcrowd your bucket. Return crabs gently after a quick look and always keep them in shade while you observe.
Safety: Be mindful of slippery rocks or harbour edges – always supervise children.
Sample Itinerary for a Crabbing Day Out
Morning:
Rock pooling and beginner crabbing at Trevellas Cove or Perranporth Beach.
Lunchtime:
Grab a pasty or picnic and take a scenic drive to Looe or Padstow.
Afternoon:
Crabbing fun on the harbour followed by an ice cream treat or fish & chips by the sea.
Evening:
Return to Perran Springs for a peaceful night – and maybe share a few crab stories around the BBQ.
Final Thoughts
Crabbing in Cornwall is a simple, affordable, and fun-filled activity for all ages. Whether you’re exploring the rugged charm of Trevellas Cove or reeling in bucketfuls at Looe, the coast near Perran Springs Holiday Park offers something for everyone.
So grab your line and bait – your next crabbing adventure is waiting!