Rock Pooling

On our ‘must do’ list with the kids is rock-pooling! Just a hop skip and jump from the end of our lane is Greenaway beach- the perfect spot for some low-tide exploring. Follow our top tips to ensure your rock-pooling expedition is an adventure to remember… Rock pooling is a great way to learn about the ocean, its animals and its underwater world. Rock pooling is a great pastime and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Rock pooling is a great activity for anyone who wants to learn more about the ocean, its animals and its underwater world. It’s also fun, exciting and a good way to spend time with friends and family. If you have children, rock pooling can be an opportunity for them to explore their surroundings while they learn about nature at the same time.

Rock pools form naturally when waves wash rocks onto shorelines and over the rocks on Cornwall’s beaches. The water inside these pools has been filtered through layers of sand so it’s generally very clear–you’ll be able to see all kinds of interesting creatures living within them!

• A camera. Its a great way to remember your trip, and you’ll want to look back on these experiences when you’re old and grey.
• A towel and/or flip flops for the sand, as well as some sort of footwear that will keep your feet dry if it’s raining or wet outside and protected from the rocks (e.g. wellies or beach shoes).
• A hat for shade, especially if there’s no direct sunlight where you’re headed!
• Some snacks–you don’t want to get hungry while rock pooling! And maybe some water too, just in case…
• Your phone in a waterproof bag so it doesn’t get damaged by water or sand (or both).
• A warm jumper and sun cream are always a good idea too!
• If you have a magnifying glass, bucket and identification guide then bring that along to help you out!

• Make sure to check the tides and weather before heading out. You’ll find much more and be safer if you visit the beach at low tide. Aim to start an hour or two before low tide so that you can get out further and not risk being cut off. Choose a calm, dry day so that you can see into the water easily.
• The best way to get there is by walking down the coast path to a beach.
• Beaches slope downwards, so the further toward the sea you go, the deeper the underwater habitat you’ll be exploring. Start your rock pooling as far down the beach as you can to find some amazing creatures. You can work back up the beach as the tide comes in.
• Sea creatures like to stay cool and damp, so you’re not going to find many by looking on exposed rocks. Look deep into pools, crevices and holes in the rock and gently lift stones and seaweed. Take time to look really carefully before replacing stones, the longer you look, the more you’ll see. Watch out for any movement, shapes or colours that stand out. Listen for crabs clicking and fish flicking the water with their tails.

• Don’t touch the sea urchins or starfish. They can be very painful to those who touch them, and it’s best not to risk getting stung by one.
• Be careful of the rocks, they can be slippery and sharp. If you’re going into a rock pool with your friends, make sure that everyone knows how to swim well enough so that if someone falls into the water, they won’t drown immediately!
• Don’t enter the water if you are unsure of your swimming abilities. You might think that you know how to swim but there are some pools where there are currents that could push someone out further than expected

Rock pooling is a great way to learn about the ocean, its animals and its underwater world.

Rock pooling is an excellent activity for all ages, including children and adults alike. You don’t need any special equipment or training to do it either – just your bare hands! It’s also free so there’s no excuse not to get involved!