Marazion is a beautiful town situated on the shores of Mount’s Bay. Marazion’s name, despite its exotic appearance, simply means ‘little market’ from the Cornish marghas (market) and byghan (little); it was recorded in a text dated 1372 as Marghasbighan. Presumably the market here was ‘little’ by comparison with that at Penzance.

An alternative name of Marazion has long been Market Jew, with this still current as the name of one of the main streets of Penzance, Market Jew Street, leading from the Market Place in the direction of Marazion. It was believed that this name was a corruption of Marazion, but it has now been shown to derive from the Cornish marghas (market) and yow (Thursday). This ‘Thursday market’ would itself have been a contrast to the ‘little market.’ This alternative name was recorded in 1291 as Marchadion.

The bay’s clean sandy beaches, crystal clear water and views toward the Lizard Peninsula and Land’s End, have rightly established the area as the most wonderful destinations for beach holidays in Cornwall.

Sheltered from the prevailing winds, the bay is safe for swimming and is a popular destination for sailing, the sailing club having a busy race schedule as well as offering tuition and advice to visiting sailors and novices alike. A small fee secures a visitor membership allowing access to all the facilities of the club as well as accomodating your dinghy in the dinghy pen. Each summer there is a family sailing week and visitors are always welcome.

In recent years, windsurfing and latterly kite surfing have begun to gain a strong following in the area and again, experienced kite surfers can get local advice and equipment whilst beginners or even first timers can get full tuition and equipment hire.

Kite surfing is exhillarating and adrenaline fueled and with the backdrop of Marazion and Mount’s Bay, breath taking!

The calm waters in the bay are perfect for the sea kayaker. The unique vantage point you get from a kayak is ideal to explore the Mount.

Conditions for windsurfing can be great for all abilities. In light winds the flat water make is ideal for beginners, but in stronger winds with a Southerly swell it can provide excellent wave-sailing. Best wind directions are W-SW, E and SE are OK, but St. Michael’s Mount can create a wind shadow. There can also be a pretty nasty shore-break at high tide. 3-4 hours either side of low water is the best time to sail.

Marazion is the venue for several local, national and international windsurfing events.

Marazion Marsh just behind the beach is a great place for the kids to explore, especially any budding bird-watchers as it is an RSPB reserve with several bird hides.