Cornwall is renowned for its picturesque coastline, charming villages, and vibrant culture. With over 300 miles of glorious shoreline, it is the ideal destination for families looking for a memorable beach holiday.
From sandy stretches to hidden coves, Cornwall offers a variety of stunning beaches that cater to all ages and interests. To help you plan your perfect seaside adventure, we’ve rounded up the 12 best family beaches in Cornwall that promise fun, relaxation, and entertainment for everyone.
Best Family Beaches Cornwall
12 Best Family Beaches In Cornwall
Perranporth Beach
Perranporth Beach is a popular choice for families due to its vast expanse of golden sand and an array of amenities. The beach is perfect for those who love water sports, with excellent surf conditions and a surf school on-site for beginners.
The beach’s shallow waters make it ideal for young children, while rock pools teeming with marine life provide hours of entertainment for budding explorers. Nearby, you’ll find cafés, shops, and a play park, ensuring a fun-filled day for the entire family.
Porthcurno Beach
Tucked away in a stunning cove, Porthcurno Beach is a secluded paradise that offers families a peaceful and relaxing retreat. The beach’s turquoise waters and fine white sand create a Caribbean-like atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely swims.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheater carved into the cliffs, is a must. The beach is also within walking distance of the Telegraph Museum, where you can learn about Cornwall’s fascinating maritime history.
Watergate Bay Beach
Watergate Bay Beach, located on the north coast of Cornwall, is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. With two miles of golden sand and consistently good surf conditions, it’s no surprise that it’s a favorite among surfers, kitesurfers, and bodyboarders.
Families with young children can also enjoy the beach’s rock pools and shallow waters. With a variety of restaurants, bars, and surf schools lining the beach, there’s something for everyone at Watergate Bay.
Gyllyngvase Beach
Just a short walk from Falmouth town center, Gyllyngvase Beach is a popular spot for families seeking a convenient and lively beach day. With its gently sloping sands and clear waters, Gyllyngvase is perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
The beach’s Blue Flag status ensures excellent water quality and safety, while the nearby Gylly Beach Café offers delicious food and refreshments. For those interested in marine life, the adjacent Swanpool Beach is home to a nature reserve and a seawater lagoon teeming with fascinating wildlife.
Carbis Bay Beach
Carbis Bay Beach is a beautiful sheltered cove near St Ives, boasting crystal-clear waters and soft golden sands. The calm waters make it perfect for families with young children, while older kids can enjoy activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
The beach is also a popular spot for dolphin and seal sightings, so keep an eye out for these friendly marine creatures. With the nearby Carbis Bay Hotel offering a range of facilities and dining options, this beach is perfect for families seeking a luxurious and tranquil getaway.
Polzeath Beach
Located on the north coast of Cornwall, Polzeath Beach is a haven for families who love the great outdoors. The beach’s vast stretch of sand provides ample space for building sandcastles, playing beach games, or simply soaking up the sun. Polzeath is also a top spot for surfing, with several surf schools available for those looking to ride the waves.
The beach is surrounded by scenic coastal walks, ideal for exploring the stunning Cornish coastline and discovering local wildlife. With a range of shops, cafés, and restaurants nearby, Polzeath Beach has everything you need for a perfect family beach day.
Sennen Cove Beach
Sennen Cove Beach, situated near Land’s End, is a picturesque destination that boasts crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands. The beach is particularly popular among families due to its excellent facilities, including a lifeguard service, ample parking, and a variety of dining options.
With its gentle waves, Sennen Cove is perfect for beginner surfers and bodyboarders, while the nearby cliffs offer breathtaking views for those who enjoy a coastal hike.
Harlyn Bay Beach
Harlyn Bay Beach, located on the north coast of Cornwall, is a sheltered, crescent-shaped beach that offers a safe and enjoyable environment for families. Its golden sands and shallow waters make it perfect for young children, while the abundance of rock pools provides endless opportunities for exploration.
For the more adventurous, Harlyn Bay is also a popular spot for surfing and kayaking. With ample parking, a seasonal lifeguard service, and a charming village nearby, Harlyn Bay Beach is a top choice for a family beach day in Cornwall.
Porthminster Beach
Situated in the picturesque town of St Ives, Porthminster Beach offers a stunning coastal backdrop and a wide range of amenities. The beach’s soft golden sands and calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
For those who enjoy a round of golf, the nearby Porthminster Golf Course boasts stunning sea views. Families can also take advantage of the beach’s award-winning café, serving delicious food and offers stunning views over the bay.
Treyarnon Bay Beach
Treyarnon Bay Beach, located near Padstow, is a charming, sandy beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs and natural beauty. The beach is popular among families due to its lifeguard service, ample parking, and nearby facilities.
The rock pools at low tide offer a fascinating world for children to explore, while the sandy expanse provides a perfect playground for beach games. For the more adventurous, Treyarnon Bay is also a popular spot for surfing, bodyboarding, and coasteering.
Crantock Beach
Just a short drive from Newquay, Crantock Beach is a picturesque, dog-friendly beach that provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby tourist hotspots. The beach’s golden sands, backed by sand dunes, create a sense of seclusion and tranquility.
Crantock Beach is perfect for families who enjoy exploring, with a range of coastal walks, hidden coves, and a beautiful estuary to discover. With nearby amenities, including a pub and a small shop, Crantock Beach is a must-visit destination for families seeking a peaceful Cornish retreat.
Praa Sands Beach
Praa Sands Beach, located on the south coast of Cornwall, is a mile-long stretch of soft golden sand that offers a variety of activities for families. With its Blue Flag status, the beach ensures excellent water quality and safety, making it ideal for swimming and bodyboarding.
The beach is also popular for surfing, with a surf school available for those looking to learn. Praa Sands Beach is surrounded by a range of amenities, including a café, a beach shop, and a playground, ensuring a fun and enjoyable day for the whole family.
Final Thoughts
Cornwall is truly a treasure trove of stunning beaches, offering something for every family. From adrenaline-pumping water sports to serene coastal retreats, these 12 best family beaches in Cornwall promise unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
So pack your beach gear, and get ready to explore the beautiful Cornish coastline with your loved ones. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, these family-friendly beaches guarantee a fun-filled and memorable seaside holiday for all.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the best that Cornwall has to offer and create cherished memories with your family on these idyllic shores.
