Cornwall holiday accommodation for every season
Cornwall is never just a summer destination. Its rugged coasts, fishing harbours and sweeping beaches take on a different magic in every season. Whether you’re seeking out-of-season surf, winter sunsets or festive harbourside lights, you’ll find a Beach Retreat to suit.
Below, discover some of our favourite Cornish locations – and when to visit them for the ultimate year-round escape.
Bude: Wild walks and empty beaches in autumn
Perched on the far north coast, Bude is made for shoulder-season escapes. As the school holiday crowds fade, the South West Coast Path quietens and the coast paths invite adventure. Stomp the cliff paths towards Widemouth Bay, dip in the tidal pool at Summerleaze, watch the waves roll in at Crooklets then return to your retreat for a fireside evening.
Perranporth: Out-of-season surf and vast sands
Famed for its three miles of golden beach, Perranporth shines in autumn and spring. Its waves stay consistent year-round, making it a hotspot for surfers and bodyboarders, yet its dunes and cafés feel calmer out of season. Bring the dog, stride the coast path to St Agnes and enjoy a pub lunch without the summer queues.
Newquay: A coastal hub for all seasons
Cornwall’s surf capital is far more than a summer hotspot. In winter, storm-watch from a sea-view apartment; in spring, try sunrise yoga on Fistral Beach. Newquay puts you within walking distance of multiple beaches, restaurants and coastal activities, so you can plan a break whatever the weather.
Falmouth: Spring gardens and maritime life
On Cornwall’s south coast, Falmouth comes alive in spring with subtropical gardens, local festivals and a thriving food scene. Wander Gyllyngvase Beach and sweat it out in the sauna on the sand, explore the maritime museum or take a ferry to St Mawes. Its sheltered waters and creative buzz make it a year-round favourite.
Whitsand Bay: Summer watersports and hidden sands
With its dramatic cliffs and endless sand, Whitsand Bay is a summer dream. Paddleboard from the shore, kayak along the whole stretch or simply roll out your towel on the sand. With a slightly more off-the-beaten-track feel and no vehicular access (you have to walk down a steep path and steps from the clifftop), this destination remains relatively peaceful even in the height of summer. As evening falls, retreat to a cliffside cabin for sunset suppers and star-filled skies.
Sennen Cove & Gwynver: Winter swells and big skies
At Cornwall’s western tip, Sennen Cove and neighbouring Gwynver feel wonderfully remote. Winter brings powerful surf, windswept walks and spectacular sunsets. Hunker down in a glass-fronted retreat, watch the Atlantic from your sofa and feel the pace of life slow right down.
Mousehole: A festive harbour village
Come December, Mousehole sparkles with its famous harbour lights, one of Cornwall’s most magical Christmas displays. Wander narrow streets lined with galleries and delis, sip mulled wine by the fire and explore West Cornwall’s quiet beaches by day. It’s a storybook setting for a winter escape.
Find your perfect retreat
Wherever and whenever you choose to travel, every Beach Retreats property is within walking distance of the sea and styled to lift your spirits. Browse our full collection of Cornwall holiday accommodation and plan your next escape – in any season.
