RNLI lifeguards return to 23 beaches in the south west for October half-term

With autumn upon us and the conclusion of the 2025 RNLI lifeguard season approaching, the south west teams will return to full time patrols for the October half term school holiday (Saturday 25 October to Sunday 2 November). Due to the clocks going back to GMT on Sunday 26 October, RNLI lifeguards will be patrolling during the daylight hours of 10am until 5pm.

RNLI Regional Lifeguard Lead for the South West, Henry Saddler-Irvine said:

‘Every year we see the October half-term bring people to the coast to enjoy the beaches, and so we’d like to remind people that if you are wishing to visit a beach, to choose one of the 23 beaches where lifeguards are still on duty. If you’re swimming and bodyboarding, be sure to do so between the red and yellow flags. If you’re unsure about anything, just ask an RNLI lifeguard.

‘Conditions can be challenging at this time of year. Autumn storms, like that we saw of Storm Amy at the beginning of October, bring large swells and an increased risk to people on the coast. We will also see spring tides towards the beginning of the half term week, which means faster moving currents and the potential for tidal cut offs. Please check tide times before you set out for the day and leave yourself plenty of time to access your route before the tide comes in.

‘If you do find yourself in trouble in the water, remember the RNLI’s advice to not panic and float to live - lie flat on your back with your arms outstretched, ears submerged and allow your body to adapt to the water before calling for help.’

Currently, Perranporth, Fistral, Porthmeor and Sennen are lifeguarded full time, and will continue cover throughout the October half term. RNLI lifeguards will be on the following beaches from 10am – 5pm daily, from Saturday 25 October until Sunday 2 November:

Devon:

Bantham, Croyde, Woolacombe.

Cornwall:

Tregonhawke, Praa Sands, Crantock, Fistral, Towan, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Porthtowan, Chapel Porth, Perranporth, Gwithian North, Hayle Towans, Porthmeor, Sennen, Constantine, Harlyn, Polzeath, Widemouth, Summerleaze.

Jersey:

Le Braye (St Ouen).

After Sunday 2 November, there will be no lifeguard cover on any beaches until the lifeguard season restarts in the spring of 2026. If you choose to visit the beaches after Sunday 2 November, the RNLI advises people to be aware of the conditions and hazards created by winter storms, always tell someone where you’re going and carry a means of communication for calling for help. If you see someone in trouble dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

Notes to Editors

• Follow the link to see which beaches currently have RNLI lifeguard patrols here 

• Spokespeople are available for interview – please contact the press office on the details below

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