Sams on the Beach – A Culinary Gem on the Cornish Coast
Introduction to Sams on the Beach
Tucked away in the picturesque fishing village of Polkerris, Cornwall, Sams on the Beach is more than just a restaurant—it’s a seaside experience. Renowned for its charming location inside a former lifeboat station and its commitment to fresh, local cuisine, this beloved eatery has become a staple of Cornwall’s coastal dining scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Sams on the Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, hearty meals, and unbeatable views of the ocean.
This article explores everything you need to know about Sams on the Beach, including the renowned sams on the beach menu, its location in Polkerris, its ties to nearby areas like Par and Fowey, and why it continues to draw praise from locals and tourists alike.
The Story Behind Sams on the Beach
A Historic Setting with a Modern Twist
The building that houses Sams on the Beach is a beautifully renovated 19th-century RNLI lifeboat station. The fusion of rustic stone walls, open kitchen concepts, and floor-to-ceiling windows creates an inviting, casual space where guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of the sea while dining.
Originally opened as part of the well-known Sam’s Cornwall group, the restaurant reflects the founders’ passion for great food, vibrant atmosphere, and community.
A Family-Friendly Coastal Hotspot
The restaurant is particularly well-loved for its laid-back, family-friendly vibe. Children can play on the beach while parents enjoy drinks or meals just steps away. It’s the kind of place where sandy feet are welcome, and the staff always have a smile on their face.
Exploring the Sams on the Beach Menu
A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
If there’s one thing that stands out on the sams on the beach menu, it’s seafood. Freshly sourced from local fishermen in St Austell Bay and surrounding waters, the dishes burst with flavor and authenticity. From chargrilled scallops to seafood platters and bouillabaisse, every bite captures the spirit of Cornwall.
Wood-Fired Pizzas & Grilled Favorites
The wood-fired oven is another highlight of the sams on the beach menu. Guests rave about the thin-crust pizzas loaded with gourmet toppings, including Cornish cheeses, Mediterranean vegetables, and cured meats. Beyond pizza, the menu also features grilled steaks, surf and turf options, and vibrant vegetarian dishes.
A Menu for Every Taste
The sams on the beach menu caters to all tastes and dietary needs. Gluten-free and vegan options are available, as well as a dedicated children’s menu. Whether you’re craving a hearty seafood spaghetti or a light summer salad, there’s something for everyone.
Sams on the Beach Polkerris: A Perfect Day Out
Discovering Polkerris
Polkerris is a hidden jewel along the southern coast of Cornwall. The beach is compact but stunning, surrounded by cliffs and calm waters. Sams on the Beach sits right at the shoreline, offering uninterrupted views of the sea and harbor.
Activities & Atmosphere
Visitors often make a day of it—spending the morning paddleboarding or kayaking, enjoying lunch from the sams on the beach menu, then strolling through the surrounding coastal paths. Sunset dining here is particularly magical, with golden light pouring through the large windows and reflecting off the waves.
Sam’s on the Beach at Polkerris: What Sets It Apart
Quality Meets Consistency
Unlike many tourist-centric beachside eateries, Sam’s on the Beach never sacrifices quality. From the ingredients to the service, everything is top-notch. Many of the chefs and servers are local, which adds a personal, welcoming touch.
Ambience and Views
The ambience is a blend of relaxed coastal comfort and vibrant energy. Whether you sit indoors under the exposed beams or outside near the slipway, you’re treated to a one-of-a-kind view of Cornwall’s coastline. This unique setting makes it a favorite for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Nearby Highlights: Sams on the Beach Par and Sams on the Beach Fowey
Sams on the Beach Par
While the restaurant itself is based in Polkerris, it’s often referred to as Sams on the Beach Par because of its proximity to Par village. Many guests staying in Par walk or drive to the restaurant for a memorable dining experience by the sea.
Sams on the Beach Fowey Connection
The town of Fowey is another charming location closely tied to the Sam’s brand. While Sams on the Beach is not located in Fowey itself, Sam’s has sister restaurants and pop-ups in the area. It’s common for fans of the brand to explore multiple venues during their trip through Cornwall, each offering a unique take on the Sam’s dining experience. That said, many believe the sams on the beach menu in Polkerris offers the most authentic experience.
Sam’s on the Beach: Events, Pop-Ups, and More
Seasonal Specials
Sam’s on the Beach hosts seasonal specials and themed events, particularly in the summer. This includes live music nights, seafood feasts, and collaborations with local breweries and wineries. These events often sell out quickly and are a favorite among locals.
The Sam’s Brand Legacy
The restaurant is part of the broader Sam’s Cornwall group, which includes several locations across Cornwall. Each venue reflects the same commitment to food, fun, and community—but Sam’s on the Beach remains the flagship for oceanfront dining. And at the heart of it all is the unforgettable sams on the beach menu, which continues to evolve while maintaining its coastal character.
Visitor Tips for Sams on the Beach
Best Times to Visit
While the restaurant is open year-round, it’s especially popular during the summer months. Booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly for dinner or weekend brunch.
Accessibility & Parking
There is limited parking near the beach, with additional spaces available on the hill above Polkerris. The walk down to the beach is scenic, though slightly steep, so comfortable shoes are advised.
What to Bring
Visitors are encouraged to bring beach gear, especially if arriving early before a meal. It’s not uncommon for diners to spend hours relaxing on the sand or swimming in the sea before sitting down to enjoy the sams on the beach menu.
Final Thoughts
Sams on the Beach is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Cornish culture, coastal beauty, and culinary excellence. From the moment you step inside the charming lifeboat station to the last bite of your seafood platter or wood-fired pizza, you know you’re somewhere special.
