Let’s Discover The Seaside Resorts of Cornwall

Mousehole, Gill Wild

Cornwall is quite a small county, but is home to quite a few pretty seaside resorts. Let’s discover a few, if you are planning a trip to England’s most south-westerly county. Also read our post on plastic-free Penzance!

Many of these seaside resorts have seasonal restrictions on dogs (Mousehole Harbour also does not allow dogs). Read more on keeping dogs safe by the seaside.

Mousehole (‘mowzel’)

This charming village is a few miles from Penzance, with narrow streets that twist between centuries-old cottages. Nearby was home to Dolly Pentreath, Cornwall’s last native Cornish speaker. St Clement’s Isle is a tiny outcrop, where a hermit once lived.

Fowey (pronounced ‘foy’)

This pretty place sits on the banks of a deep river. Known for its community of sustainable sailors, it has pastel cottages, literary links and a peaceful charm.

Newquay

This is a top spot for sustainable surfing (mankinis are banned!). Nearby Towan Island is a small rocky place connected to the mainland by a private narrow suspension bridge, with a single house perched on top!

Falmouth

This blends maritime history with modern style. The deep harbour once hosted tall ships, and now yachts bob beside boats. The area’s mild climate fosters lush gardens and palm trees.

Padstow

This pretty town has cobbled streets, leading to the harbour. The Camel Trail offers a scenic riverside cycle to Wadebridge. Nearby, sheltered beaches and wild headlands make for scenic walks.

Looe

This is an ancient port town with a sandy beach, split it two by an old stone bridge (West Looe is more peaceful). Nearby Looe Island has rare plants and nesting seabirds, run by Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

Perranporth

This offers three miles of sandy beach, with rock arches and caves to explore. Nearby dunes are home to rare plants and butterflies. Keep to designated paths, to avoid disturbing nesting birds and wildlife. 

Bude

This lies close to the Cornish-Devon border with two large beaches. The town centre has a friendly, down-to-earth feel, with independent shops and cosy tearooms.

St Mawes

This looks across the Fal Estuary. The castle anchors the water’s edge, and quiet waterside walks invite an afternoon spent tracing Cornwall’s slower side.

Polzeath

This is known for its surf, the wide beach backed by grassy dunes. Footpaths along the cliffs lead to Daymer Bay and the scenic Camel Estuary. In summer, dolphins often play in the bay.

Mevagissey

This is a picture-perfect village with tight lanes and a double harbour. Watch the boats come and go. Colourful houses hug the cliffs and shops sell local art.