Category: Activities

Top 5 places to see Christmas lights in Cornwall

Experience Cornwall’s twinkling harbours this Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas and Cornwall was filled with glistening lights! We give you our top 5 locations to visit over the festive season.

We are now offering 20% off 5 or 7 night breaks on selected properties this Christmas. Or stay at The Village for 7 nights and arrive to a festive Cornish hamper and decorated Christmas tree.

Mousehole Harbour

Described as Cornwall’s brightest star and the King of Christmas Lights, our Number 1 place to go is Mousehole Harbour. Celebrating its 56th year with its switch on 15 December 2019, visitors can expect over 7,000+ twinkling lights making up a variety of animals and objects across the harbour.

Check out our holiday properties in Mousehole to experience everything the area has to offer.

Christmas Lights at Mousehole Harbour

Padstow Harbour

Padstow Christmas Festival is a unique experience and certainly one not to be missed. Not only do they light up the harbour, they also light up the sky with a spectacular fireworks show. This Christmas festival takes place 5-9 December 2019 with top chefs making an appearance with foodie demos and the chance to stock up on Christmas presents in the market.

Angarrock

A small village located close to Hayle in west Cornwall, Angarrock and its small community come together to create  an animated 12 Days of Christmas in sparkles. You’ll find their Christmas glow along its rivers, streets and even rooftops.

Looe

Looe has a December calendar full of festive fun. The big switch on itself will take place the first week of December at the rivers edge prior to a traditional lantern parade. Make a day of it with shopping and dinner, finishing the night off with an evening stroll as you watch the Christmas lights reflect on the water.

Truro

Last and by no means least we give you Truro. Here, a ‘City of light’ parade and Christmas light switch on marks the start of Truro’s festivities with over 30,000 visitors expected each year. Visitors will be serenaded by at least 100 local musicians and dancers whilst showcasing over 600 lanterns, made by local artists, school children, college students and community members. Head here Wednesday 19th November 2019.

See more Christmas inspiration here.

Looking for restaurants to visit at Christmas time? Check out our 10 favourite restaurants for a Christmas dinner.

Rockpooling Checklist

Top tips for Rock Pooling in Cornwall.

Your Beach Retreats guide to all there is to know about rock pooling in Cornwall.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

When to go

You can rockpool all year round in Cornwall. Wrap up in winter and pick a sheltered shore, or visit in summer when marine life is flourishing.

Where to go

Watergate Bay, Porth and Whipsiderry, Newtrain Bay near Trevone and Trevaunance Cove in St Agnes are all great spots for rockpooling, but any beach with a rocky shoreline is good. Our harbours are also brilliant for crabbing.

Check the weather

The best rockpooling happens on calm, sunny days at low tide when parts of the shore normally covered in water are exposed. Plan your visit by checking a local tide table online and move inland as the tide pushes in.

What to pack

Many people think you need a net to go rockpooling, but you don’t. One of the best ways to enjoy the shore is to peer into a rockpool and wait. With patience you’ll be treated to a natural display of the fascinating and tough creatures that live here. If you do use a bucket be careful not to overcrowd it with creatures. They can overheat and run out of oxygen.

Walk to Watergate Bay

Follow the seashore code

    • Respect the seashore creatures, handle them as little as possible and always put them back where you find them.
    • Take photos home, not animals.
    • Put overturned rocks back carefully as you found them.
    • Take any rubbish home with you.
    • Keep safe on the seashore, check the tides and keep away from the cliffs and waves.

Top Tips

Look for a shore with small rocks covered in seaweed and start by investigating underneath the water’s surface. Lift the rocks carefully and you may find crabs, cushion starfish and even snake pipefish and Cornish sucker fish.

Watch your fingers

Take care when picking up crabs! If you do want to handle one, use your index finger and hold it down by pressing onto the center of its shell – you’ll have plenty of time to get your fingers around the sides behind the claws. Grip it firmly. You’re less likely to get pinched holding a crab like this. Don’t be tempted to pick up a crab by putting one finger underneath.

Once you have understood all the above, you’re ready to begin your rockpooling checklist. Here are 10 creatures to look out for.

    1. Cornish Sucker Fish -Look under rocks in pools close to the shore. It has modified fins that act like a suction pad.
    1. Broad Clawed Porcelain Crab – A small hairy crab that lives upside down beneath rocks on the low-tide shoreline.
    1. Worm Pipefish – Related to the seahorse this worm-like creature is actually a fish
    1. Snakelocks Anemome – Don’t be fooled by its pretty fluorescent-tipped stinging tentacles – it’s a carnivorous predator.
    1. Common Shore Crab – These small shore crabs have incredible colours which they lose as they grow older.
    1. Star Ascidian – Beautiful, small and squidgy star-shaped sea squirt colonies found on the rocks and seaweed.
    1. Montagu’s Blenny – A small warm-water fish with a cockatoo crest on its head.
    1. Celtic Sea Slug – Also known as a liquorice sea slug, it is often found on the rocks between Holywell and Polzeath.
    1. Blue Rayed Limpet – A tiny but beautiful limpet that only lives on seaweed – not rocks.
    1. Giant Goby – Only found in the south, they can grow up to 29cm in length. If you find one please put it back and report it to Cornwall Wildlife Trust – they are a protected species.

Dive into the fascinating world of marine life with our Rockpools Revealed guide, and discover the hidden wonders along the shoreline.

Book your self-catering holiday with Beach Retreats.

School’s out and Surf’s Up

Hit the waves with a surf break in Cornwall…

So far this summer, Cornwall has been blessed with sunshine and swell – which means plenty of surfers are flocking here with their boards, ready to enjoy the waves from sunrise to sunset. Here are some of our favourite surfing beaches on the doorstep of our Beach Retreats:

Fancy staying in a holiday retreat with a swimming pool? Check out our cottages with a swimming pool for a relaxing getaway.

Watergate Bay

The home of Beach Retreats HQ and one of the most consistent beach breaks in Cornwall, Watergate Bay is one of the most popular surf spots on the outskirts of Newquay. When the swell forecast is good make sure you’re up at dawn if you want to beat the crowds, or stay in until the sun sets over the corduroy lines peeling in from the horizon. If you need to hone your surfing skills you can book a session with the experts at the Extreme Academy, or hire any kit you need if you don’t have your own. Check the waves from one of our apartments nudging the ocean.

View all properties in Watergate Bay.

 

Fistral Beach

Hailed as the surfing capital of Britain, Fistral is where many of Cornwall’s pro surfers cut their teeth. Its world-class waves lure surfers from far and wide, with plenty of peaks for all abilities to spread out across the bay. With a line-up of surf outlets and surf schools to get you looking the part and chasing your own surfing career down the line, it’s the place to become a bona fide surfer. Between sessions you can eat and drink in swanky beach bars, or escape the crowds and soak up the action from one of our apartments overlooking this legendary surfing location.

View all properties in Fistral.

 

Mawgan Porth

A short hop north of Newquay and much less crowded than the likes of Fistral, Mawgan Porth is home to a tight-knit surfing community. Its sandy runway is a swell magnet and the surf breaks on all tides, so whether you want to catch green waves or practise on the white water, there are always waves to be ridden. Get to your feet under the tutelage of one of Cornwall’s best-loved surf schools – Kingsurf – and grab any kit you need from the huddle of surfside hire shops and surf stores. When you’ve had enough of beach life, retreat to your beachside house, just minutes away and dry off in front of the log burner or bask on the balcony.

View all properties in Mawgan Porth.

 

Summerleaze, Bude

At the hub of Bude’s vibrant surfing community, Summerleaze beach offers a series of peaks to choose from and is a great location for beginners to hit the waves. In one of Cornwall’s top surf towns, it’s little surprise that it gets super crowded in summer, but if you opt for lessons with Bude Surfing Experience, Scott Marshall and his team will find the best peak for your ability, help you hone your surfing technique and offer you a hot shower at the end of your session. Veer just over mile inland from the crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet of your own family pile at Wychwood Lodge, where you can sink into the hot tub, curl up by the log burner and enjoy a luxurious lifestyle between surf sessions.

View all properties near Bude.

Perranporth

Choose a self-catering house, apartment or penthouse at The Dunes behind Perranporth beach, and enjoy easy access onto a two-mile stretch of dune-backed beach. From the northern end of Perran Sands, all the way to the more sheltered Droskyn, which is protected by the cliffs at the southern end, there are plenty of peaks so you can spread out from the crowds. Just be aware of rips and if you need some know-how get some lessons with Perranporth Surf School.

View all properties in Perranporth.

Porthtowan

With easy parking, beachside amenities and peaks that work on all tides, Porthtowan is a popular spot with all levels of surfers. It can be a punchy break, but as the tide drops you can shift onto the (sometimes) more mellow waves at Lushingtons at the southern end. Tris Surf Shop has been in town since ’72, so it’s our go-to for lessons, gear and advice. Once you’ve got spaghetti arms and can surf no more, head back to The Beach apartments and while away the day watching the waves from balcony, or head to the surfside Blue Bar for a pint and a legendary burger.

View all properties in Porthtowan.

Whitsand Bay

While the south coast isn’t renowned for its surf, when the swell wraps around the tip of the rugged Rame Peninsula, Whitsand Bay’s four miles of golden sands are blessed with plenty of peaks where surfers can get their fill. From the decking or living room of Alpha, a two-bedroom cabin perched on Freathy Cliff, you can check the surf and wait for the waves while you relax on a sun lounger or on the sofa. And when the surf’s up, simply grab your board from the surfboard storage area and skip down the steps to the sea. If you need equipment or lessons tap up the Adventure Bay surf school, and if the waves are flat you can take the plunge on a thrilling coasteering trip instead.

View all properties in Whitsand Bay.

Check out our other locations and other retreats across North Cornwall.

Sennen

A short hop from Land’s End, Sennen Cove is the breeding ground of a tribe of committed and talented surfers. A series of sand-bottomed peaks (watch out for rocks at the southern end) pick up any swell, so you can often find a wave here when no other spots on the north coast are working. Hit the surf with the British pros at Smart Surf School and kick back at Sea Salt, our new property perched above Sennen Cove, where you can eyeball the surf and the turquoise hues of the ocean from the comfort of your living room.

View all properties in Sennen.

 

Dive into the exciting world of alternative surf activities in Cornwall and discover new ways to enjoy the waves.

Surf Safely

    1. Use lifeguarded beaches and surf between the black and white flags, as this is where the lifeguards have designated as safe to use. A red flag indicates that it’s unsafe to enter the water.
    1. Be careful of rips – strong channels of water that can drag you quickly out to sea.
    1. Don’t drop-in on other surfers – if there is a surfer already on the wave, don’t try to catch it. The surfer who takes off closest to the peak (where the wave breaks) has the right of way.
    1. Don’t get in the way and don’t ditch your board – if you let go of your board to dive under a wave it may hit another surfer.
    1. Respect the locals and be friendly in the sea – it makes surfing much more fun.

View all self-catering holidays in Cornwall

10 Beach Activities for your holiday to Cornwall

Make the most of Cornwall’s natural playground, right on your doorstep.

Hunt for starfish in a Cornish rockpool, fly a kite on a golden beach and watch the sunset over the ocean. Our Beach Retreats beckon families to enjoy the simple pleasures of seaside life. Here are the top 10 activities to inspire you during your stay.

Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.

Rockpooling

Head to many beaches in Cornwall at low tide and visitors will be pleasantly surprised with hundreds of rockpools just waiting to be explored. You’ll be treated to a natural display of fascinating and tough creatures, including the Cornish Sucker fish, Worm Pipefish and the Common Shore Crab.

See our full guide to rockpooling and where to go.

Run down a sand dune

There’s nothing quite like standing at the top of a sand dune and shouting ‘I’m the king of the castle’ whilst running down the golden sand. In Cornwall there are many beaches where you can do just that. Some of our favourites include Crantock, Holywell Bay and Fistral beach.

Want to stay in Fistral? Have a look at our luxury holiday cottages in Fistral.

Feast on a BBQ

After a full day of exploring Cornwall’s fantastic beaches, it’s time to bring the family back together and refuel with a Cornish BBQ. From locally caught mackerel to homemade buns and burgers, you’ll be in for a treat if you buy local. See our guide to eating local in Cornwall.

 

Go caving

There’s something quite enchanting about a secret cave in Cornwall, and luckily, we have many of them for you to explore. Our must visit cave is in Tintagel. Merlin’s Cave is steeped in history and perhaps the most magical of them all. Located beneath Tintagel Castle, it is 100 metres long passing completely through Tintagel Island from Tintagel Haven.

 

Build a sandcastle

Bring back those childhood memories and create new ones with a sandcastle competition for the whole family. If you’re really competitive, we love this article by the Telegraph on how to build the perfect sandcastle.

 

Jump the waves

If you’re not quite brave enough to go wild swimming or take up a surf lesson, or if you have little ones in tow, then jumping over the shallow waves is the one for you. Hold hands, count 1,2,3 and you’re off. (Be sure to stay in between the red and yellow flags and watch the tides).

Read our blog on the best things to do in the sea in every season!

Go surfing

Surfing should be on everyone’s checklist when holidaying in Cornwall. Get suited and booted and ride with the locals for a feeling like no other. Will you stand up on the board on your first try? Hire your wetsuit and board from a local surf school with lessons included for all abilities.

 

View the beach from a different angle

With panoramic views from all angles, we highly recommend walking part of the south west coast path during your beach day.  Visitors are spoilt for choice on which direction to take with its 300-mile trail. Head to north Cornwall for the rugged cliff top walks or if you prefer, visit tropical South Cornwall and its hidden coves. Whatever path you take, you’ll find something different and exciting each turn you take.

 

Family Super SUP

New to the Newquay Activity Centre collection is the Super Stand Up Paddleboarding. Fun for the whole family, you’ll take on your fellow shipmates in a myriad of fun games including ‘King of the SUP’ and ‘Sumo SUP’. In addition to the guaranteed giggles, you’ll learn how to kneel and stand up paddle, perfect paddle strokes, navigate the coastline, and negotiate the swell and waves back to the beach. Find out more about Super SUP.

 

Go fishing

Fishing has enjoyed a long history in Cornwall and remains central to our local culture. Before you choose your rocky outcrop or traditional fishing boat to throw your line from, why not take some tips from the locals and see which spot suits you best. If you prefer a guided tour, there are many fishermen that take out both small and large groups.

 

Book your next break with Beach Retreats.

Yoga on a Cornish beach

yoga

We invited Next Wave Yoga to be our latest guest blogger, to give you plenty of inspiration for a relaxing Beach Retreats stay…

Let’s set the scene:

It’s 8.30 am on a Monday morning with Next Wave Yoga. Instead of being near the end of your morning commute to work, or rushing the kids off to school, you are on a beach in Cornwall. Perhaps it is not just you, but the whole family is there with you. The beach is still quiet, there are only a few people walking their dogs. Instead of being sat on a train or in traffic you are sat on a yoga mat with sand between your toes and the sound of the sea and birds. Your yoga teacher asks you to close your eyes and for a few minutes just allow yourself to really listen to everything going on around you, to be ‘present’ and enjoy where you are in that moment.

Visiting Cornwall with an electric car? Check out our holiday lets with electric car (EV) charging points.

It’s hard not to enjoy where you are when you are sitting on a beach with the sun on your back and listening to the sound of the waves. For the next hour you are guided through a yoga class that has been created specifically for you, with careful guidance and assistance when necessary. This ensures you have plenty of time to come back to ‘that place’ of just being still and listening to the world before rolling up your mat and heading off for breakfast.

What a great way to start the day.

We are exceptionally blessed in Cornwall to be surrounded by beautiful coastline, hidden coves and tucked away woodlands that are open for us to use as our ‘yoga studio’. Instead of four walls, air conditioning, false lighting and the person next to your mat being less than an inch away from yours, we want you to be able to experience space, the ability to move freely and breathe deeply. If you have never stood and intentionally taken lung fulls of fresh sea air before, you are in for a treat.

Fancy staying in Watergate Bay? Check out our luxury holiday properties in Watergate Bay, Newquay.

The outdoors is part of a Cornish lifestyle and our environment is our greatest asset. We want to share it with you.

Over the years we have received an abundance of research into the effects of our modern and indoor lifestyle on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown how positive just a simple walk in the park or stroll across the beach can be and the longer you spend outside the more positive those impacts are. Just a 20 minute walk can improve short term memory, boost creativity, reduce stress and anxiety, allow for clearer thoughts, lower blood pressure and even reduce inflammation in the body.

Yoga also helps with all of these things – combining the two is pretty magical and the beauty of the practise is, it can be done anywhere you have space to roll out a mat. A lot of the yoga classes that we do are actually within holiday homes like Beach Retreats’ making use of the wide terraces, private gardens and beautiful views from open plan sitting rooms. This makes it easier for the whole family to join in.

We understand that your time away is precious so we bring the yoga studio to you.

It may be that you want to have just one class to end your stay or daily classes to really reap the full benefits, create your own vinyasa flow, experience yin, yoga nidra or even just master your Downward Dog – the choice is yours. You could even turn a day of your stay into a mini yoga retreat to include a morning and afternoon class, massage treatments, sound baths and even a cookery class with a nutritionist.

We want you to feel free to create what you need to help you truly, relax, recharge and ultimately go home feeling like you have a new found love for ‘self care’ and can take on the world. Maybe after one more Savasana…

For more information visit nextwaveyoga.co.uk or bespokeretreats.com.

A little more about Next Wave Yoga

Next Wave Yoga was created to make the benefits of yoga and massage accessible to all. Founded by Amy Williams, an experienced level 3 massage therapist and passionate yogi, we are a truly holistic approach to relaxation and healing based in Cornwall offering group yoga classes, private yoga classes, massage treatments, unique bespoke retreats and much more.

Next Wave specialises in tailoring experiences to the individual. That means anything from creating a plan for dealing with stress and anxiety through yoga or helping your aches and pains with deep tissue massage or getting all f the family together for some yoga fun on the beach.

It’s no secret that we think massage is a little bit magic. Helping to alleviate aches and pains, improve circulation, aid the lymphatic system, helps the body recover for sporting activities and injuries quicker and creates more space and mobility in the body. For the ultimate treat let us turn your beautiful holiday home into your own private spa for some time to truly relax and unwind.

Want to learn more about how to make the most of your travel? Read our blog on how to do slow travel.

Book your relaxing holiday with Beach Retreats.

Cornwall’s most Instagrammable locations

We predict that these Cornish spots will be popping up on our feeds…

Last year it was Pedn Vounder and Kynance Cove that captured the Insta crowds and went viral on social media. So what are the most Instagrammable locations of Cornwall in 2019?

Interested in staying in our most luxurious holiday cottages? Check out our luxury coastal cottages.

Port Isaac

The home of Doc Martin is a picture-postcard Cornish village flaunting cobbled streets, cream tea cafés and sublime sea views. We’re so used to seeing it on our TV screens that we half expect the Doc to come dashing down the winding streets to the harbour, where fishing boats putter in to deliver fresh catch to Nathan Outlaw’s restaurants. With wild Cornish cliffs that yawn in each direction, it’s little wonder that the Doc chose to live here, and less wonder that we’re so fixated by his appearance on our TV screens – who knows if it’s Doc Martin or Port Isaac that’s the real star of the show.

Find a self-catering holiday in Port Isaac.

Bedruthan Steps

Dubbed Britain’s equivalent of Australia’s Twelve Apostles, us mere mortals are dwarfed by the towering rock stacks rising from the sands of this craggy cove north of Newquay. Stand atop the cliffs and you can watch the waves carving the granite turrets, said to be the stepping-stones of a legendary giant. Or wait for low tide and descend the cliff steps to pad along the white sands, peering down into the rock pools and up to the peaks of these barnacle-clad skyscrapers. Don’t be content with taking in the view from the coast path with the rest of the camera-wielding visitors, plug on along the coast path to Park Head, passing ancient burial mounds and the ruins of a cliff fort, while keeping an eye out for seals and seabirds.

Find a self-catering holiday near Bedruthan.

Wheal Coates

Climb the rusty-red backs of the cliffs from Chapel Porth beach, to reach this iconic engine house that casts a shadow over the wild Atlantic waves. As you explore the coast path you’re setting foot in some of Cornwall’s richest mining history, while below the pumping surf breaks are known as the legendary ‘Badlands’. While the waves aren’t the territory of beginners, when you descend the pristine cove of Chapel Porth, you’ll discover the perfect spot for rock-pooling as the tide ebbs, and make sure you stop for a famous hedgehog ice cream in the National Trust car park.

Explore further from Chapel Porth & take a look and book our self-catering properties at Porthtowan, or talk to a member of our team on 01637 861 005.

Find a self-catering holiday in St Agnes.

Tintagel

Perched atop a sea-lashed promontory and swathed in Arthurian legend, Tintagel Castle has been a crowd-puller ever since tourism came to Cornwall. With its magnificent ruins and immense bronze statue of King Arthur looking out to sea, we expect the fortress to be high on our social media scrolls when it re-opens this summer, following the construction of a new footbridge. Touted as the birthplace of King Arthur, it’s impossible not to get swept away by local myths as you listen to your echo in the eerie Merlin’s Cave and step foot in the remains of a majestic fortress and a prosperous Dark Age settlement.

Find a self-catering holiday near Tintagel.

Jubilee Pool, Penzance

Cornwall’s art-deco lido has graced the screens of our social media feeds ever since it was renovated after storm damage in 2014. One of the world’s most scenic lidos, its eye-catching design and turquoise waters are hemmed by Mounts Bay. Re-opening again this summer after the development of a geo-thermal project, an area of the pool will be heated to a steaming 35C later in the year – so it’ll no longer be the territory of just hardy cold-water swimmers. In fact, you don’t even have to take a dip to enjoy the lido, simply bask on the terrace or take a seat in the year-round café and soak up the views.

Find a self-catering holiday near Jubilee Pool.

Find out about Sennen, near to Penzance, in our blog all about the area.

Holywell Bay

Having scored a starring role in the BBC’s recent Poldark hit, the breath-taking beauty of Holywell Bay needs little introduction. As soon as you clap eyes on the giant sand dunes and the twin peaks of Gull rock, you can imagine Ross Poldark galloping along the shoreline, searching for Demelza wistfully picking sea pinks on the cliff tops. Despite is fame, Holywell still keeps the crowds at bay, and makes the perfect beach for hitting the surf, collecting shells and exploring the sea caves in search of the ‘holy well’. You can also follow the coast path to Kelsey Head to spot seals and seabirds.

Find a self-catering holiday in Holywell Bay.

Huer’s Hut, Newquay

In the 19th century the town ‘huer’ would stand in this little stone hut on Towan Headland, crying, “Heva, Heva”, to alert the fishermen when shoals of pilchards were spotted in Newquay Bay. Having been restored in recent years to ensure Newquay’s history and heritage is not forgotten, this little whitewashed hut is a great spot to step back in time, gawp at the panoramic coastal views and see if you can spot shoals of dolphins of mackerel coming into the bay.

Find a self-catering holiday near the Huer’s Hut.

 

Search all Beach Retreats self-catering holidays in Cornwall.

Discover South East Cornwall

Once referred to as Cornwall’s forgotten corner, South East Cornwall is a place steeped in beguiling beauty and legends of smugglers…

Far removed from the wild, Atlantic-lashed beaches of the surfy North Coast, here beach life beats to the pace of calmer seas. And whether you go rock pooling on Downderry, fly a kite on Rame Head or hop aboard a boat cruise to Plymouth, you’ll discover that any trip here is truly unforgettable.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Here are six things we love doing in South East Cornwall:

Walk from Cawsand to Whitsand Bay

Step straight out of our waterfront Beach Retreat onto Cawsand Beach, dip your toes in the sea, and then strike out along the South West Coast Path. It’s an easy three miles through magical woodland to Penlee Point and onto the ancient chapel on Rame Head, where you’ll often encounter wild ponies. From here soak up coastal views as far as the Lizard Peninsula, some 50 miles away, and then push on another couple of miles around the headland to the golden stretch of Whitsand Bay.

Walk the South West Coast Path.

Hop aboard the Looe Valley Rail Ale Trail

Take a seat aboard one of Devon and Cornwall’s Great Scenic Railways, which hugs the river as it wends through a wooded valley from the market town of Liskeard to the seaside town of Looe. Make the most of the journey – and the scenery – by stopping off to sample some of the region’s finest ales in a series of country inns. If you collect stamps from all nine watering holes on the route, you can claim a free Rail Ale Trail t-shirt.

Explore Cornwall by train.

Catch the Ferry from Cawsand to Plymouth

Stay in our stylish Beach Retreat on Cawsand Bay and it’s easy to mix barefoot beach life with the buzz of city living. Step out of your stylish abode onto a quaint smuggler’s cove, from where you can hop on the foot-passenger ferry to Plymouth’s lively waterfont Barbican. Once you’ve had your fill of shopping, sightseeing and dining in this maritime hub, hop back aboard The Western Maid and castaway to the sandy shores of Cawsand.

Enjoy a cruise from Cawsand.

Take a boat cruise from Looe

Walk the banjo pier, go crabbing off the harbour wall or hop on a boat trip from the harbour – you’re spoilt for choice for what to do in the seaside town of Looe. Veritable nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on a trip to Looe Island Nature Reserve with Cornwall Wildlife Trust (Easter–October), during which you’ll learn about the unique wildlife habitats and have time to take a self-guided walk around the island. However, the best way to witness the wonders of the marine world and the wildlife around the island is on a 45-minute ride aboard the Boatzer glass-bottomed boat.

Go rock pooling on Downderry Beach

A long stretch of sand and shingle backed by staggering sea cliffs, Downderry is an excellent spot for rock pooling and also home to the stunning beach house Far Horizon. Stare out to sea from an old sea captain’s house, Far Horizon, while you wait for the tide to ebb, then pad along the shoreline to Downderry, scouring the rock pools for the ocean’s bounty on the way. Keep an eye on the tides if you want to walk back along the sand, and be aware that you might feel a little over-dressed when you reach the secluded eastern end of the beach where naturists like to hang out.

Take a look around Far Horizon.

Go surfing on Whitsand Bay

Although the south coast isn’t as well known as the north coast for its surf, when conditions prevail there are a few decent waves to be found along this more sheltered coastline. Just a stone’s throw from Looe’s flat-water beaches, the surf wraps around the rugged tip of the Rame Peninsula and hits Whitsand Bay’s four miles of golden sands. So when you stay in one of our Beach Retreats overlooking Whitsand Bay, when the surf’s up you can hit the waves under the wing of expert instructors. If the waves aren’t working, you can always take plunge on a thrilling coasteering trip instead.

Find out about surf lessons.

Check out our other locations and other retreats across South Cornwall.

Take a look at our favourite ‘must sea’ retreats and explore our other holiday lets.

Alternative Surf Activities in Cornwall

credit cornish rock tors mat arney coasteering jump tridents port gaverne resized

Cornwall has become synonymous with surfing and the surf culture, but don’t forget that there are lots of other reasons to hit the water while you’re on holiday here.

“When you’re on holiday in Cornwall there are so many ways to experience the stunning coastal environment,” says Tom Greaves, of King Coasteer. “Coasteering offers a unique perspective, as you swim, climb and traverse along the coastline, encountering all sorts of marine wildlife along the way.”

Thinking of visiting in the February half term, check out what activities we recommend trying in February.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Whether you want to glide across glassy bays, get a close-up view of the marine life or dive to the bottom of the ocean, here are some of our favourite ways to enjoy the sea when we’re not surfing:

Snorkeling

Pedn Vounder, West Cornwall

With white sands, turquoise tidal lagoons and crystal clear water backed by towering granite cliffs, it’s little wonder that Pedn Vounder is one of Cornwall’s most photographed beaches. It’s also home to some of the cleanest, clearest water in Britain; so if you brave the knee-wobbling descent to the beach, don’t forget your mask and snorkel. Glide out under the shadow of Logan Rock and you can spot crabs, starfish and all sorts of sea life including seals and dolphins. There are also regular sightings of basking sharks in May and June. Just be aware that it’s also a naturist beach, so you may feel a little overdressed when you return to shore in your wetsuit.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Sennen Cove or Mousehole and it’s a short drive to the village of Treen or Porthcurno, from where you can access the coastal path to Pedn Vounder.

Handplaning

Watergate Bay, north Cornwall

If you’d like to zoom down the waves without having to grasp the skill level that stand-up surfing requires, try handplaning. A turbo-charged version of the ancient art of bodysurfing, all you need to do is strap a mini surfboard (about 30cm) to your hand and swim out into the shore break. Using a pair of fins to propel you into the waves, it’s simple to catch the breakers and carve your way along the face of the waves on your belly. Get an introductory lesson from the expert instructors at Watergate Bay’s Extreme Academy – it’s fun, relatively easy and accessible to anyone who can swim.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Watergate Bay and enjoy a handplaning session at the Extreme Academy. Equipment hire is also available.

Scuba Diving

Newquay, north Cornwall

Do you fancy exploring the underwater kingdom? You don’t need to head to tropical islands to try diving; Cornwall is home to some world-class dive sites and a great location to give scuba diving a go.

Plunge beneath the waves and come face-to-face with seals, sea horses and cuttlefish on your first reef dive alongside a qualified instructor. No previous experience is required for a Discover Scuba day with Dive Newquay, during which you’ll get an introduction to the academics of diving, practise basic scuba skills in a 4 metre-deep dive pool, and finish the day with an open water dive off the Gazzel in Newquay.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Newquay and Discover Scuba Diving with Dive Newquay.

Coasteering

Porth Beach, north Cornwall

Swim through gulleys, ride whirlpools, explore sea caves and leap from rocky ledges on a coasteering trip. Although it sounds like a full-throttle adventure, coasteering is a family-friendly activity and isn’t all about cliff jumping from great heights; every trip is tailored to the group. In the safe hands of the expert guides at King Coasteer, you’ll encounter sea life from starfish to seabirds, swim through smugglers’ tunnels and scramble around wave-hewn headlands, as you experience a unique perspective of the coastline.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Porth, and head off on a coasteering adventure around Porth Island with King Coasteer.

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Cawsand Beach, south east Cornwall

The calm and sheltered waters lapping Cawsand are the perfect territory to get your balance on a stand-up paddleboard and castaway into the bay. Nail the basic techniques with a SUP lesson, or join a full- or half-day guided trip to explore sea caves and secret coves, spotting kingfishers and seals as you float to historic landmarks such as the mighty Artillery Steps or Grenville Battery Fort. All equipment is provided – it’s up to you whether you hire a paddleboard and castaway on your own adventure, or hire a guide to take you on a tour.

Stay in a Beach Retreat in Cawsand and head off on a stand-up paddleboarding excursion with Cawsand Kayak and SUP Hire.

Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Trip

Carbis Bay, west Cornwall

Launch from the beautiful Carbis Bay and explore St Ives Bay on a traditional outrigger canoe. These safe and stable Hawaiian craft were built to cross vast stretches of the Pacific Ocean and can seat up to seven passengers – making them perfect for a water-bound family adventure. Underwater viewers enable you to get close-up to the amazing marine life, from spider crabs and sunfish, to seals and even basking sharks.

Check out our luxury holiday properties in Carbis Bay by the sea.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Portreath and it’s just 20 minutes’ drive to Carbis Bay where you can take an Outrigger Tour with Ocean Sports Centre.

See all our Beach Retreats and make new memories this year.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Five ways to explore Cornwall’s coastline, from its beaches and estuaries to its paradise islands…

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Freewheel through woodland valleys, hop aboard one of the UK’s most scenic railways or see the coastline from the perspective of the seabirds – there are plenty of ways to soak up Cornwall’s sublime scenery. These are some of our favourites:

Skybus to the Isles of Scilly

Gliding at cloud level, looking out to the five main islands and 140 uninhabited islands and islets that make up the Isles of Scilly, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were arriving at a Caribbean archipelago. Travelling in a small 8- or 19-seater plane is all part of the adventure of reaching these paradise islands, especially if you’re used to the likes of a Boeing 747. The bird’s eye view of the Cornish coastline surpasses the inflight entertainment of regular air travel, and within 20-30 minutes you’re swooping onto the island of St. Mary’s, just like one of the many seabirds that far outnumber residents in this magical destination.

Stay at one of our holiday lets in Watergate Bay or Mawgan Porth and you’re minutes’ away from Newquay Airport, where you can catch a flight to the Isles of Scilly.

The Train to St Ives

Bag a window seat on one of the UK’s most scenic railway journeys, and gaze out to the eye-popping scenery that lured so many artists to St Ives and its surrounds. Hugging the banks of the Hayle estuary and the coastline, during the 15-minute journey you’ll be mesmerised by the scenery – from bobbing boats and beautiful beaches, to seabirds and surfers. Once you disembark above the white sands of Porthminster Beach there’s plenty of time to take a stroll around the island to spot dolphins, visit the world-famous Tate St Ives gallery and dine in a Michelin-star restaurant, before the return journey.

St Ives Train

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Portreath and it’s just 20 minutes’ drive to St. Erth, where trains depart to St Ives every 30mins (peak times).

Cruise along the Atlantic Highway

Join the convoy of V-Dubs with boards strapped to their roofs and hit the Atlantic Highway from Bude to Newquay. Snaking along the coast between pumping surf spots, foodie meccas and rugged beaches, make plenty of pit-stops to surf-check from wave-hewn headlands, explore the remains of Iron Age castles and dine in harbour-side hamlets such as Padstow and Port Isaac. Once you reach Newquay don a wetsuit and hit the waves before watching the sunset over the Atlantic with a locally brewed tipple in hand.

Stay in Bude or Whitsand Bay and follow the Atlantic Highway (A39) to the surfy hub of Newquay.

Discover adrenaline-pumping adventures and unforgettable experiences with Newquay’s wild activities.

The ferry from Cawsand to Plymouth

Slip seamlessly from beach life to city life aboard the passenger ferry from Cawsand to Plymouth. One minute you can be hunting for crabs and critters in the rock pools of a smugglers’ cove; the next you can be aboard The Western Maid, sailing towards the vibrant waterfront Barbican. After a twirl around Plymouth’s shops, iconic maritime landmarks and culinary hotspots, you’ll be ready for the 30-minute boat cruise back to barefoot beach life at Cawsand and Kingsand.

Stay in Whitsand Bay, a 10-minute drive to Cawsand or in Cawsand itself, where you can catch the ferry to Plymouth (Easter until October).

Cycle the Camel Trail

Trace Cornwall’s watery landscape inland as you follow 18-miles of disused railway along the banks of the Camel Estuary to the flanks of Bodmin Moor. Starting from Padstow, the Camel Trail is an easy-going cycle route that takes you to the market town of Wadebridge, on past the famous Camel Valley Vineyard and through fairy-tale woodland all the way to Bodmin Moor. Whether you complete the route or simply pedal your way to Wadebridge and back, you’ll build up a hearty appetite, ready to fuel up in one of Cornwall’s finest foodie outlets when you get back to Padstow.

Stay at our Beach Retreats in Rock and you can hop on the ferry to Padstow, hire a bike from Padstow Cycle Hire and freewheel along the Camel Trail at your leisure.

How to make a Cornish pasty

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You can’t come to Cornwall and not have a Cornish pasty! But why not see if you can make them yourselves whilst staying with us? Not only is it a great thing to try with the kids on a rainy day, but you’ll also have a great lunch!

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Cornish Pasty

Follow our recipe and let us know how you get on!

Ingredients

350g beef skirt
1 large onion
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
175g swede, peeled and diced
Salt and pepper

125g chilled butter
125g lard
500g plain flour
Water
1 egg, beaten

If you decide to save time, and reduce mess, you can always buy pre-made shortcrust pastry.

Method

To make the pastry

– Rub the butter and lard into the flour with a pinch of salt. You can do this by hand or use a food blender. Mix until it resembles breadcrumbs.

– Then add 6tbsp of cold water and combine until the mixture comes together as dough.

– Divide into four equal amounts, wrap in cling film and leave to chill for around an hour.

For the filing

– Preheat oven to 180C.

– Bring a pan of water to the boil.

– Add the chopped swede and potato and cook until tender. Then drain, refresh in cold water and set aside.

Creating your pasty

– Roll the chilled pastry out onto a clean, floured work surface.

– Cut a large disk from each piece of pastry using a dinner plate as a template.

– Share out chopped onion between the four discs of pastry. Arrange them in a line down the middle.

– Spoon the shopped steak on top. Then add the swede and potato on top.

– Season with salt and pepper to taste.

– Brush the edge of each pastry disc with some of the beaten egg.

– Fold one edge of the pastry over to the other side and crimp to seal the pasty.

NB: A Traditional Cornish pasty is crimped on the side. Watch this video to see how to crimp professionally.

– Brush the remaining egg over the top of the pastry and score a small hold in the middle of the pasty.

– Cook for around 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Oggy, oggy, oggy! Oi, oi oi!

Discover our bespoke holiday cottages in Hayle and try a fresh Philps pasty straight from the store.

 

Want someone else to cook for you? Explore seaside delights with our guide to where to eat and drink by the sea!