Porthleven is home to the eponymous world class, fast, crowded, reef shelf break just west of the harbour, plus a couple of desperation peaks generally only surfed when that's not breaking. Experts only, not to be trifled with.

** Webcam **:Aspects Holidays - shows view across harbour - misses main break, but gives sense of swell.

The main break offers a short, right barrel, and/or quality lefts depending on the swell direction. Mid tide only, as risk steps up considerably at both high and low. Often gets fat, rippy and backwashed towards high as well. Always crowded when working, localised. Can handle some size.
Another reef break infront of east harbour wall offers short hollow rights onto boulders, and occasional lefts, that's popular with bodyboarders.
The steep shingle beach can offer some options when desperate, but is generally spinebreaking shorebreak at best particularly around high when access is cut off.

All the risks! Parking and facilities in town.