Forget saving up for an extravagant break abroad this summer and book a holiday to the South Coast of the UK instead. Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with sands ideal for family adventures and waves that nature seems to design for the thrill of budding surfers! Here’s a look at the best beaches in the county:
Polzeath Beach, Polzeath
Located in the North of Cornwall near the village of Polzeath, Polzeath Beach has Blue Flag status and is known for its popularity with surfers. In season there’s a lifeguard on duty which makes it a safe spot for family swims and its location allows for shelter from the elements and yet still impress surf. This beautiful stretch of coast (which measures 460m wide) is often extremely crowded but with its picturesque surroundings and natural gems too – you can sometimes spot Dolphins I the bay as well as Puffins and Corn Buntings – it’s no surprise.
Holywell Bay, Newquay
You probably already know that Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most vibrant tourist hot spots with youngsters taking their first holiday here with friends and families travelling from far and wide; Hollywell is one of the area’s more tranquil beaches. You’ll enjoy the soft and rolling sand dunes which are brilliant for hours of hide and seek with the children and there’s a nearby family fun park which is sure to be a hit with kids big and small.
Kynance Cove, Lizard
Heading to the West of Cornwall where the waters are a bit warmer and the fishing towns of Falmouth and St Ives can be found, look out for the stunning cove of Kynance on the Lizard Peninsula. Owned by the National Trust, you can guarantee this beach will be clean and tranquil. Surrounded by craggy cliff edges, this beautiful stretch of coast is known for its serpentine rock formations, naturally polished by the ebb and flow of the sea.
Porthmeor Beach, St Ives
Another West Cornwall gem has to be St Ives’ Porthermeor Beach which too has a Blue Flag. It provide the perfect conditions for sunbathing, sand castle building or having a nice family picnic. Here you’ll find a café bar and surf school – so if you’ve always fancied taking to the open seas, now’s the time to grab a board and give it a go.
East Looe Beach, Looe
Discover the family favourite of East Looe beach which provides calm waters for swimming, plenty of sand for play and exciting rock pools in which to explore. There’s even trampolines built into the sand for those who enjoy a good bounce. If you enjoy a spot of fishing, then East Looe’s Banjo Pier is a popular place for rod and line fishing or to watch the fish trawlers come and go from the harbour.
Emma Walsh is a parent and family blogger from the UK. She recently fell in love with the South Coast following a holiday at the Trenython hotel in Cornwall with her husband and two children.