The Five Best Cornwall Beaches for Families
With a coastline that stretches for more than 250 miles, it’s no surprise that Cornwall boasts more than 200 spectacular beaches to choose from. Whether you are searching for rolling-waves to surf, white sandy beaches for soaking up the sun, or pebble-filled beaches for rock pooling or beachcombing, in Cornwall, you’re guaranteed to find just the right beach.
If you’re considering a family holiday to Cornwall, then keep on reading. Here we outline the top 5 best Cornwall beaches for families, from beautiful white sandy beaches to secluded coves and beaches that are perfect for swimming with little ones.
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Best Cornwall Beaches for Families
1 – Summerleaze, Bude
Located just a five-minute walk from the centre of Bude, Summerleaze ranks consistently as one of the best family beaches in Cornwall year-after-year. A look at its many attractions and it’s easy to see why; a white sandy beach flanked by a gentle river ideal for water-based fun; beach huts which can be booked by the day or week; sand chairs (available June through October); public toilets; play area; beach café; and a natural saltwater sea pool – known as the Bude Sea Pool – which is cleaned daily by the tide. There’s a pretty coastal path for those wanting to stretch their legs. Alternatively, little ones will love seeking out sea critters in the rock pools around the harbour. For complete peace of mind, Summerleaze also has a dedicated lifeguard on duty over the Easter weekend and early May until the end of September. Finally, this beach is dog-friendly too. What more could you ask for?
2 – Porthmeor Beach, St Ives
Located in the picturesque seaside town of St. Ives, Porthmeor Beach’s range of amenities and year-round popularity make it one of the best Cornwall beaches for families. This beach boasts soft white sands and calm waters ideal for swimming. The beach is one of only seven beaches in Cornwall to be awarded the Blue Flag Award for its excellent water quality, environmental management, and safety. St Ives’ range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs are all within striking distance. Alternatively, soak up the sun and enjoy a beach picnic while enjoying the seaside views. Lifeguards are on duty from the end of March until the end of October. Note that Porthmeor Beach operates a seasonal dog ban from mid-May till the end of September.
3 – Crantock Beach, Newquay
Crantock Beach boasts soft powder white sand and gentle rolling waves perfect for swimming, paddling, or even surfing. The beach is around a 15-minute drive from Newquay Town Centre and is a popular Cornwall beach for families, with lifeguards on duty from mid-May to the end of September, giving parents peace of mind. The beach includes a wide range of amenities too, including public toilets and parking operated by the National Trust. It is also dog-friendly too.
4 – Par Sounds Beach, St Austell
Firm white sand flanked by dunes are the hallmarks of the south-facing Par Sounds Beach, one of the best Cornwall beaches for families. The beach is dog-friendly, meaning the entire family can enjoy it, while you’ll find a wide range of eateries nearby. For those looking to stretch their legs, the beach also includes a beautiful coastal path. Par Sounds Beach is located just four miles away from the pretty village of St Austell, one of the most breath-taking destinations along the Cornish Riviera. Here you’ll find the popular CLC Trenython Manor, a fantastic family-friendly resort that is part of the CLC World group. Trenython Manor offers an excellent base for exploring Cornwall’s best beaches. And, for those wanting to enjoy an escape with their four legged friends, the resort offers dog friendly holidays too.
5 – Trevone Bay
Popular with both families and surfers, Trevone Bay is a Blue Flag awarded beach near the seaside town of Padstow. The beach offers a large expanse of golden sands flanked by rocky ledges, which are great for hunting out crabs and other seaside critters with little ones. Trevone Bay beach also includes a blowhole known as Round Hole. Lifeguards are on duty at this beach throughout the summer months, offering peace of mind. On-site amenities include public toilets, a café, and a shop, while car parks can be found at either end of the beach. Note that dogs are not allowed on the beach from mid-May until the end of September.
What other best Cornwall beaches for families would you add to our guide?
