Located on the north coast between Perranporth and Newquay is the gorgeously ‘secret’ Porth Joke beach. It couldn’t be farther away in spirit from all the tourist trappings of its neighbours, and is one of our favourite places to take the dog for a jaunt and a swim.

It’s backed by Cubert Common, which is starkly beautiful, with a rolling landscape that falls away into a valley. As the land heads seaward, a sandy lane runs side by side with a stream studded with willow trees. And as the valley opens up the stream runs straight onto the beach, which at high tide is hugged by cliffs and on low tide opens up to a large sweep of sand.

There are no lifeguards, cafes or toilets and because of this it’s quiet, wild and dog-friendly all year; equally as stunning on a bright, sunny day or when dark, stormy clouds roll in off the sea.