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Cornwall has a way of drawing people back, year after year. It’s not just the beaches — though they’re undoubtedly some of the UK’s best — it’s the seaside buzz, the extraordinary scenery and the welcoming Cornish locals. Days organised around tide times rather than timetables, meals dictated by the catch of the day, and the calming effect of the ocean all add up to make Cornwall unique.
Living the coastal life in Cornwall, even for a short while, is about slowing down and embracing your surroundings. Whether you’re staying for a long weekend or a couple of weeks, you’ll find a top selection of beach cottages in Cornwall listed with us, most of which are within walking distance of the coast. Once settled in you’ll soon discover that Cornwall is home to gastronomic treats, sights of historic importance and glorious sandy beaches, all of which are easily accessible.
Understanding Cornwall’s Coastline
Cornwall’s coastline is famously varied. The north coast faces the Atlantic and is known for its long sandy beaches, high quality surf and wide horizons. It’s energetic, windswept and ideal for those who love the outdoors and activity led holidays. Popular coastal towns include Bude and Newquay with Padstow being our pick for a luxury seaside escape.
The south coast, by contrast, is more sheltered and offers a slower, more relaxed vibe. Here you’ll find calmer waters, wooded estuaries, harbours and traditional fishing towns where boats bob quietly on the tide. It’s a great choice for relaxed dining, sight-seeing and long coastal walks. Check out Fowey and Porthleven, both of which will make a great base for exploring the south coast of Cornwall.
West Cornwall offers some of the county’s most popular seaside towns like St Ives and Carbis Bay, both famous for their white sandy beaches, exquisite shops, galleries and fine dining. If you are planning a visit to the west coast, you must take in a show at the Minack Theatre, a cliff-top theatre overlooking Porthcurno Bay, and enjoy a picnic on the mesmerising Kynance Cove, a beautiful beach on the Lizard Peninsula.
Choosing Where to Stay by the Sea
Where you stay has a huge influence on how “coastal” your holiday feels. Living the coastal life isn’t just about visiting the beach — it’s about proximity to amenities, views and property features.
Accommodation options to consider:
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Location – Walk to the beach rather than drive (parking can be a nightmare in peak season)
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Sea Views – OK, we’re always going on about the benefits of sea views, but it does make a huge difference.
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Features – If you’ve ever experienced a hot tub holiday in Cornwall, you’ll know what we mean.
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Pet Friendly – With so many dog friendly cottages in Cornwall, there is no excuse for leaving your trusty canine behind.
If your budget allows, it’s always a good idea to rent accommodation slightly larger than you need so you you’re not getting in each others way. This is especially pertinent if you’re planning a group holiday in Cornwall with family or friends.
Hidden Beaches Away from the Crowds
Cornwall’s beaches are as diverse as its towns. Many are lively and social with busy promenades, water-sports and hoards of beach-goers. Some are quieter and less well known, but still unique and beautiful in their own way.
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Gwynver Beach – A white sandy hidden cove just north of Sennen Cove, it’s lack of amenities is what keeps the crowds at bay, so be sure to pack a picnic!
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Pedn Vounder Beach – Hidden away on the south coast, about a 15 minute walk on the coastal path from Porthcurno Beach (near the Minack Theatre)
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Readymoney Cove Beach – This calm, tranquil beach near Fowey and opposite Polruan is surrounded by trees, perfect for a paddle, swim and a picnic.
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Porthcothan Bay – Near Padstow in North Cornwall, this beach is generally very quiet even in the peak summer months, ideal for a swim or a walk.
You’ll find that many of the more secluded beaches won’t have parking nearby and won’t offer amenities like cafes, restaurants or toilets. But that shouldn’t stop you enjoying these hidden gems, just be prepared for a bit of a walk and carry enough food and drink for your crew.
Walking the Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is one of Cornwall’s greatest assets. The path itself is just over 630 miles long, of which about 300 miles traverses the Cornish Coast. It traces the entire coastline, linking beaches, headlands, villages and viewpoints.
The coastal path will suit all fitness levels, whether you’re up for calf-busting hikes in North Cornwall, or you intend to use the path just to access nearby points of interest or connect between villages. Shorter sections offer:
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Access to secluded beaches
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Wonderful views of the coastline
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Wildlife spotting opportunities (seals and dolphins)
It’s worth getting up early or waiting until later in the day to use the coastal path, with fewer people about and of course in summer, much cooler temperatures. And remember, the coast path is dog friendly, so if you’re travelling with pets take a quick look at some of the top dog friendly retreats listed with us.
Food and Drink by the Sea
Cornwall is a haven for lovers of good food, boasting a strong network of local producers, farm shops and seasonal food festivals. There is an impressive range of bistros and restaurants where talented chefs highlight local ingredients, often in settings with sea views and memorable locations. And it’s not all about fine dining, here we’ve listed some simple Cornish staples:
- Seafood (fish, oysters, crab and scallops)
- Cornish Pasty (pastry filled with beef, potato, onion and swede)
- Cornish Cream Tea (scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream)
- Cornish Ice Cream (rich creamy and made locally)
- Stargazy Pie (pie filled with sardines, eggs, potato and white sauce)
During your self-catering stay, we recommend you shop locally from fishmongers, farm shops and markets which adds to the experience. Cooking with local ingredients will help you connect with the place you’re visiting.
Experiencing Cornwall Off-Season
Living the coastal life isn’t just limited to summer. In fact, many holiday-makers find Cornwall at its most rewarding outside of the peak holiday season.
Spring and autumn advantages:
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Quieter beaches – escape the peak summer crowds
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Get in the Sea – autumn is when the water is at its warmest
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Dog friendly holidays – most beaches have no restrictions outside of summer
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Better value – rates are cheaper with more availability for coastal stays
Cornwall in winter has its own appeal too — dramatic seas, bracing walks and cosy evenings indoors by the fire. Watching storms roll in from a warm, sea-view base can be just as memorable as a summer swim.
Wildlife and the Natural World
Cornwall’s coast is rich in wildlife. Depending on where and when you visit, you may be lucky enough to spot:
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Seals resting on rocks or swimming offshore (can be seen year round as they don’t migrate)
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Dolphins and porpoises further out to sea (West Cornwall offers the best chance)
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Seabirds nesting along cliffs (Looe Island and North Cornwall coast)
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Marine life revealed at low tide (crabs, anemones and starfish – try Treyarnon Bay)
Binoculars and patience will definitely go a long way. Often sitting quietly by the sea often reveals far more than racing about from place to place.
Cornwall’s Most Iconic Coastal Sights
Cornwall’s coastline serves up a host of globally recognised attractions, some of which we’ve listed here. Covering all of the wonderful places to visit on the Cornish coast could literally take a lifetime.
- St Michaels Mount – a medieval church in Marazion accessed by a tidal causeway
- Tintagel Castle – a medieval fortress in Tintagel famously linked to King Arthur
- Minack Theatre – open-air amphitheater above Porthcurno Bay carved into the cliffs
- Botallack Mine – a former mine, location used by the BBC for the TV series Poldark
It’s important to plan ahead before visiting these attractions to ensure the best experience. For example we recommend booking ahead for the Minack Theatre and secondly, time your visit to St Michaels Mount so you can walk across the causeway at low tide.