For me, there’s just one downside to Cornwall – I dwell too distant to go to each few weeks, exploring all my favorite spots and dealing on my life aim of testing all the very best household seashores in Cornwall.
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However after repeated journeys together with to Newquay and Falmouth, and lengthy weekends like our break on the coast north of St Ives, I’m doing my finest to make sure that the seashore (a number of seashores!) all the time function – and to comply with my daughter’s stern directions proper from toddler days, to not neglect her ‘sand issues’ as she calls her in depth assortment of buckets, spades and sand toys.
As a result of whereas there are golden sweeps of sand which have been excellent when she was youthful, there are additionally extra dramatic coves (Tintagel, I imply you), locations to surf and a few of the UK’s prettiest seashores. So if you happen to’re as large a fan as my mini traveller, listed here are my finest seashores in Cornwall with youngsters in your record.
For my seashore necessities with youngsters, try my high picks for enjoyable on the sand
North Cornwall seashores with youngsters
The north Cornwall coast is famously wilder than the south, however in addition to a few of the hottest vacationer places, it’s additionally bought a few of the county’s finest seashores.
For extra concepts of issues to do in north Cornwall with youngsters, try my ideas
Crantock Seaside
Clear white sand, grassy dunes and turquoise water – no marvel Crantock was voted Finest British Seaside by BBC Coast a couple of years in the past.
The Nationwide Belief website has lifeguards at occasions throughout peak season, and a few fabulous walks to take advantage of the unspoiled dunes. At one finish there’s additionally a spot within the cliffs the place you possibly can discover the Piper’s Gap cave at low tide,
Not removed from Newquay, it’s typically quieter than the busier seashores near the favored city. It’s additionally dog-friendly year-round.
Fistral Seaside
Fistral Seaside is among the hottest seashores in Cornwall, recognized for its world-famous browsing competitions. However even when browsing isn’t your loved ones’s factor, the seashore remains to be an amazing spot to go to with kids.
The seashore is broad and sandy, and the waves are excellent for swimming and bodyboarding. You’ll additionally discover lifeguards on responsibility from 10am every day between early April and late October, so you possibly can loosen up realizing your youngsters are protected.
There are additionally loads of cafes and eating places close by, making it straightforward so that you can seize a chew to eat. Rick Stein’s Fistral Restaurant is a stunning informal spot to get pleasure from lunch with views over the water or to seize some fish and chips to remove and eat on the seashore.
Polzeath Seaside
Recognized for its lovely wonderful sand, clear blue waters, and glorious browsing and bodyboarding circumstances, Polzeath is one other of the very best seashores in Cornwall for households.
The large Blue Flag seashore is patrolled by lifeguards throughout the peak summer time months, making it a protected place for little ones to swim and play. Throughout low tide, there are a number of rock swimming pools alongside the seashore, so youngsters can discover and uncover crabs, small fish, and different marine creatures.
Polzeath has a stunning relaxed vibe, with loads of cafes and retailers shut by. There are additionally public bathrooms (albeit very primary). Set between Padstow, Port Isaac and Wadebridge, it’s a straightforward one to achieve as properly.
Canine are banned from the seashore from mid Could to the tip of September between 10am and 6pm nevertheless it’s dog-friendly outdoors these occasions.
Perranporth
This three miles of attractive seashore is ideal if you need one thing extra lively than sandcastles – snorkelling, browsing, you possibly can even journey on the seashore, whereas the South West Coast Path runs by means of it.
A part of the St Agnes heritage shoreline, it’s round eight miles south of Newquay in case you fancy a hike to the seashore.
Canine allowed year-round, though throughout July and August they’re required to be on a lead on the primary seashore space between 10am and 5pm (there are different sections of seashore and dunes the place they’ll let off their leads).
The Seven Bays
These seven lovely golden seashores and bays on Cornwall’s north coast are all positioned only a quick distance from each other. They’re linked by scenic coastal paths – so if you happen to’re up for one thing just a little extra lively, you possibly can stroll between two or three seashores in a day.
Set close to to the city of Padstow, the group of seven is made up of Porthcothan Bay, Treyarnon Bay, Constantine Bay, Booby’s Bay, Mom Ivey’s Bay, Harlyn, and Trevone Bay.
Every seashore has its distinctive character and attraction, and all of them have loads of enjoyable actions for kids of all ages to get pleasure from. Treyarnon Bay has a big pure tidal pool, Harlyn and Constantine are nice browsing and watersport spots (each have colleges and board rent), whereas Booby’s Bay is ideal for rock pooling.
The Seven Bays are additionally a few of the most dog-friendly seashores in Cornwall, as six of them permit canine all 12 months spherical. Trevone is the one seashore that has a canine ban from Could 15 to September 30 (10am to 6pm).
Extra North Cornwall seashores with youngsters
Need extra inspiration? Take a look at these different family-friendly seashores in Cornwall
- Summerleaze Seaside – if you happen to’re staying round Bude, this can be a nice seashore in Cornwall with youngsters
- Nice Western Seaside – considered one of a number of seashores to decide on between in Newquay itself
- Holywell Bay – an alternative choice close to Newquay, it’s between Perranporth and Crantock seashores
West Cornwall seashores with youngsters
The westernmost a part of Cornwall is house to St Ives and Penzance, in addition to Land’s Finish (plus Hayle and Helston to say a couple of others) – plus a few of the loveliest turquoise waters round Cornwall.
St Ives
St Ives is hardly a hidden gem, however there’s a purpose it’s so beloved – not least due to its seashores, with a number of across the city.
At Porthminster seashore, watch the boats bobbing within the harbour and take advantage of the legendary mild if you happen to’re creative (smartphone or easel).
No canine are allowed from 10am to 6pm between Could 15 and September 30, however they’re welcome on the seashore outdoors these occasions.
Porthgwidden Seaside is among the smaller ones, lined with brightly colored seashore huts (and a café), plus rocks to clamber over between sandcastles.
Or head to Porthmeor Seaside, not removed from Tate St Ives. Probably the greatest locations to be taught to surf (extra on that under), it’s an extended stretch of golden sand with rockpools and a improbable café above the sands with exercise books to entertain youngsters and a wonderful chocolate tart on the menu.
Plus there are smaller coves too, together with tiny Bamaluz Seaside within the city that’s canine pleasant all day, in addition to Carbis Bay only a few minutes from St Ives.
I’ve bought 16 different concepts for excellent issues to do in St Ives with youngsters if you happen to’re searching for greater than making sandcastles
Gwithian Towans Seaside
One other of the very best household seashores close to St Ives is Gwithian Seaside. Situated on the east of St Ives Bay, the seashore varieties a part of three miles of seashore known as The Towans.
The lengthy stretch of golden sand is surrounded by massive sand dunes and has loads of area for kids to run round, play, and construct sandcastles.
The shallow waters are additionally excellent for paddling and swimming, with a number of rock swimming pools to discover. And if you happen to’re fortunate, chances are you’ll even spot some Atlantic gray seals out within the bay – simply be sure that to not strategy them.
On the northernmost level of the bay, you’ll discover Godrevy Level and Godrevy Lighthouse. The scenic cliff is a superb spot to observe the sundown over the water on the finish of the day.
The northern part of Gwithian Seaside, near Godrevy, has restrictions on canine from Could 15 to and September 30 (10am to 6pm), however the southern stretch of the bay (aka Mexico Towans) is canine pleasant 12 months spherical.
Porthcurno
The distinction of giant rocky cliff, golden sand and unbelievable clear turquoise sea is unbeatable by itself, however this seashore has the bonus of the Minack Theatre, a dramatic open-air setting constructed into the rock.
The sand itself is made up of seashells floor down wonderful by the waves over tens of millions of years, which supplies the seashore it’s distinctive color.
There’s additionally a stream which flows down one facet of the seashore which is one other bonus for any seashore in Cornwall with youngsters, and offers an excellent choice to paddle for youthful kids. The waves might be highly effective, so whereas there are lifeguards throughout the summer time months, swimming is healthier for older youngsters.
At low tide you possibly can stroll all the way in which to Pedn Vounder subsequent door, however be sure that to not get lower off (although there’s a method out up the steep cliff path).
Canine are welcome on Porthcurno seashore from September 1 to June 30, in addition to earlier than 10am or after 6pm throughout July and August.
Sennen Cove Seaside (Whitesands Bay)
Situated under the small coastal village of Sennen Cove, essentially the most westerly level in England, Whitesands Bay is an extended stretch of gorgeous white sand and turquoise waters.
It’s an ideal place to go to with youngsters because it has an unlimited sandy seashore, rock swimming pools, and loads of enjoyable actions to maintain little ones entertained. The favored seashore is sheltered and protected for swimming and browsing, with lifeguards on responsibility from Easter by means of to October. There’s additionally a restaurant, ice cream stall, and surf store proper on the seashore itself.
There are three foremost automotive parks to decide on butween however go for the seashore or harbour automotive parks if you happen to can. The third (bigger) automotive park is on high of a steep cliff and the hike down could also be an excessive amount of for youthful kids.
Canine are banned on Sennen Cove Seaside between Could 15 and September 30 from 10am to 6pm, however they’re are allowed on Gwynver Seaside on the northern finish of the bay.
Porthgwarra
Porthgwarra is a stunning little seashore positioned in a secluded cove simply 3 miles southeast of Lands Finish. As soon as a hidden gem, the seashore has elevated in reputation lately after being featured in BBC drama Poldark.
The picturesque sand and pebble seashore is sheltered by towering cliffs and has a number of attention-grabbing rock swimming pools and caves for teenagers to find.
You’ll be able to attain the seashore by way of a steep slipway that leads down from the automotive park or a small tunnel carved into the rock. The tunnel might be the safer route with toddlers and youthful youngsters, however it may possibly nonetheless be fairly slippery so be sure that to carry onto the rope.
The seashore doesn’t have any facilities, however there’s a small cafe and comfort store within the native village.
Praa Sands
Praa Sands is a big white sand seashore on Cornwall’s south coast, near a few of the space’s common vacationer areas and points of interest akin to Penzance, St Michael’s Mount, and the Lizard Peninsula.
The 1.5-mile-long seashore is backed by sand dunes with lovely towering cliffs at every finish. The water is shallow sufficient for younger kids and lifeguards are on responsibility all through the summer time.
The seashore is well accessible from the close by automotive park. There are additionally bathrooms, a store, a restaurant, and a restaurant on the seashore. Canine usually are not allowed on the seashore from 1st July to thirty first August between 10am and 6pm.
South Cornwall
The gentler south coast isn’t wanting its personal tempting seashores, together with some nice choices if you happen to’re staying close to Falmouth.
Kynance Cove
The views as you stroll all the way down to the seashore, on the Lizard Peninsula, are virtually as spectacular because the seashore itself – there’s a purpose it’s been voted probably the greatest on this planet.
One other Nationwide Belief website, it’s well-known for its rock stacks in addition to its wildlife. The pink and inexperienced stone and strange serpentine shapes, plus the caves, imply there’s a lot to discover past the waves too.
Be careful for the tides right here as you may get lower off… There are not any lifeguards so it pays to be cautious if you happen to’re swimming as properly, though it’s often pretty got here in summer time.
Should you’re visiting in peak season, ensure you get right here early if you wish to discover area on the sand although.
No canine allowed between 10am and 6pm in July and August, however Kynance Cove is dog-friendly outdoors these occasions.
Gyllyngvase Seaside
Gyllyngvase (aka Gylly) Seaside is the very best household seashore close to Falmouth, positioned a straightforward 10 minute stroll from the city centre. The seashore has loads of handy amenities, together with a carpark, public bathrooms, showers, and a restaurant lower than 100 yards away.
It’s an amazing one for all of the household too – recognized for its crystal-clear waters and rock swimming pools (to the south), toddlers and youthful youngsters may have a lot to entertain them.
There are additionally loads of actions out there for older and extra adventurous kids to get pleasure from too, together with paddleboarding, kayaking, and even a seashore volleyball web. Canine restrictions are in place from Could 15 to September 30 between 10am and 6pm.
East Looe Seaside
This lovely sandy seashore close to Looe is ideal for teenagers, with loads of area to run round, construct sandcastles, and discover rock swimming pools at low tide. The seashore gently leads into the calm and shallow water, offering easy accessibility for the little ones to swim and paddle.
Don’t miss the unusually formed Banjo Pier subsequent to the seashore the place you possibly can watch the numerous fishing boats come out and in. Or for one thing just a little totally different, bounce on a brief boat journey that leaves from the city to discover the attractive shoreline and Looe Island.
The seashore is positioned only a quick distance from Looe city the place you could find all of the facilities you possibly can probably want. There’s a canine ban in place on the seashore all 12 months.
Extra South Cornwall seashores with youngsters
Need extra inspiration? Take a look at these different household pleasant seashores in Cornwall
- Swanpool seashore – an alternative choice not removed from Falmouth, there are watersports (and mini golf!)
- Carne seashore – a brief drive from St Mawe’s, it’s a stunning seashore on the Roseland Heritage coast
- Gorran Haven seashore – half an hour additional north up the coast, the South West Coast Path passes proper by means of this seashore
- Pentewan seashore – on the northern finish of the south coast, it’s near Mevagissey and St Austell, in addition to the Misplaced Gardens of Heligan
The Isles of Scilly
A part of the county of Cornwall, you possibly can simply spend your complete vacation on the attractive Isles of Scilly, hopping from island to island – don’t miss these seashores whilst you do.
Take a look at my information to the Isles of Scilly with youngsters for extra inspiration
St Martin’s
With so many spectacular seashores on the Isles of Scilly, it’s laborious to slender it down – even simply selecting one per island would offer you selection galore. However the extremely curving bays on St Martin’s are mesmerisingly lovely.
The powdery wonderful white sand at Nice Bay feels much more tropical than you’d count on within the UK, and even in August you received’t be preventing the crowds.
Or Par Seaside at Greater City Bay is nearer to cafes and retailers however nonetheless with its personal fabulous sweep of blue sea. Not forgetting Lawrence’s Bay by Decrease City as properly.
When the solar shines – which it typically does on Scilly, you possibly can virtually be gazing onto the Caribbean (though the temperature may be very distinctly Atlantic, superb if you happen to want cooling down after sunbathing!).
All three are dog-friendly year-round.
Extra seashores on the Isles of Scilly with youngsters
- St Mary’s – the primary islands, Porthcressa is sweet for locating shells and likewise has a play space close by, Porthmellon is one other great spot for beachcombing plus it additionally has a Crusing Centre, or Pelistry is one other beautiful seashore
- St Agnes – head to The Bar (at low tide, you possibly can stroll throughout to neighbouring Gugh) and the seashore is a superb spot for locating sea glass and shells, or Beady Pool bought its identify for the beads which might wash up right here
- Tresco – Rushy Porth Seaside and Appletree Bay each have superb white sand whereas Pentle Bay is famend for being significantly protected
- Bryher – Rushy Bay seems out to uninhabited Samson, whereas Inexperienced Bay is the largest seashore and Nice Par is one other fabulous crescent of sand
If you would like extra inspiration, try my final information to Cornwall with youngsters, in addition to my high 20 issues to do in Cornwall with youngsters
*first revealed 2016, up to date 2023*
PIN FOR LATER: THE BEST BEACHES IN CORNWALL
Pictures: Fistral seashore/St Martin’s copyright MummyTravels, all others courtesy of Depositphotos
