Best Family Beaches In Cornwall

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Cornwall, a stunning coastal region in the southwest of England, is home to some of the best family beaches in the UK. 

With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes, Cornwall offers an ideal destination for a memorable family beach getaway. Whether you’re looking for calm waters for your little ones to paddle in, thrilling waves for surfing, or simply a relaxing spot to soak up the sun, Cornwall has it all.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top family-friendly beaches across Cornwall. We’ll highlight their unique features, from hidden coves to expansive shores, and share tips on where to find amenities like clean facilities, cafes, and parking. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, get ready to discover the best family beaches that Cornwall has to offer.

4 Mesmerising Family Beaches To Visit In Cornwall

1. Kynance Cove, Lizard Peninsula

Kynance Cove is a fantastic family-friendly beach in Cornwall, offering natural beauty, safe swimming conditions, educational opportunities, and essential amenities. It’s a place where you can create cherished memories with your loved ones while enjoying the wonders of the Lizard Peninsula’s coastline.

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Kynance Cove is a visual treat for visitors, with its clear turquoise waters, dramatic rock formations, and golden sandy beach. Kids will be amazed by the towering cliffs and fascinating rock pools, providing endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Families with young children will appreciate the relatively calm waters at Kynance Cove, especially during low tide. The gentle waves make it an excellent spot for paddling and swimming. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season, adding an extra layer of safety for parents’ peace of mind.

Kynance Cove is also a haven for budding marine biologists. When the tide goes out, the exposed rocks reveal an array of fascinating sea creatures. Kids can spend hours discovering crabs, small fish, and colourful anemones in the rock pools. It’s an educational and exciting experience for youngsters.

Additionally, this family-friendly beach provides essential facilities such as toilets and a café where you can grab refreshments and snacks. Picnic areas are also available, making it easy to enjoy a packed lunch with the family.

And if you and your family love hiking, Kynance Cove offers picturesque coastal paths with stunning vistas. You can take a leisurely stroll along the cliffs, exploring the diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

While there is a bit of a walk from the car park to the beach, it’s manageable for most families. The path is well-maintained, and the enchanting surroundings make the journey enjoyable.

Keep in mind that the beach can become quite compact during high tide, so plan your visit around low tide if you want more space to spread out and play on the sand.

2. Fistral Beach, Newquay

Fistral Beach, located in the vibrant town of Newquay, is a fantastic family-friendly beach destination in Cornwall. With its wide stretches of golden sands, consistent waves, and an array of amenities, it’s a top choice for families seeking a fun and relaxing day by the sea.

One of the great things about Fistral Beach is its accessibility. It’s easily reached from the town centre, making it convenient for families with young children. You can stroll down from Newquay’s shops and restaurants, which means you won’t have to lug heavy beach gear too far.

For families with budding surfers, Fistral Beach is a dream come true. It’s renowned for its consistent surf, making it an ideal place for both beginners and experienced surfers. You’ll find several surf schools offering lessons for kids and adults, so everyone can ride the waves together.

Safety is a top priority at Fistral Beach. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak season, ensuring a secure environment for families to enjoy the water. The gently sloping shoreline makes it suitable for swimming and paddling, even for little ones.

When hunger strikes, you won’t have to venture far from the beach. Fistral Beach has a variety of beachside cafes and restaurants where you can grab a tasty meal or a quick snack. They cater to all tastes, from fish and chips to fresh salads.

If you need a break from the sand and surf, the beach offers a pleasant promenade where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. There’s also plenty of open space for picnics and games, making it an excellent spot for family gatherings.

Thus, Fistral Beach in Newquay ticks all the boxes for a family-friendly beach. It combines easy access, great surf conditions, safety measures, and convenient amenities. Whether you’re planning a day of water sports or a relaxed beach outing, Fistral Beach is a top pick for families seeking sun, sea, and sand in Cornwall.

3. Porthcurno Beach

Nestled on the southwestern coast of Cornwall, Porthcurno Beach is a true gem among family-friendly destinations. With its soft, golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking surroundings, this beach offers everything you need for a memorable family day out.

One of Porthcurno’s standout features is its gentle sloping shoreline, which makes it perfect for families with young children. The shallow waters near the shore provide a safe and enjoyable space for little ones to paddle and play. Parents can relax knowing their kids are having a blast without any strong currents to worry about.

Porthcurno Beach isn’t just about sun and sand; it’s also home to the world-famous Minack Theatre, a unique open-air theatre carved into the cliffs. Families can catch a live performance or explore the theatre during the day. The dramatic backdrop of the ocean and cliffs adds a touch of magic to any visit.

The beach provides essential amenities like clean toilets, a cafe, and a shop, so you can stock up on snacks and beach toys. Parking is available, but it can get busy during peak seasons, so arriving early is a good idea.

Porthcurno Beach is not just a sunbather’s paradise; it’s a fantastic spot for budding explorers. The rock pools along the shore are teeming with marine life, making it an excellent place for kids to discover crabs, sea anemones, and more. Bring buckets and nets for some exciting beachcombing adventures.

Whether you’re building sandcastles, or watching a play at the Minack Theatre, Porthcurno promises a day of fun and discovery for visitors of all ages. It’s no wonder this beach is cherished by locals and cherished by families from near and far.

4. Great Bay, St Martin’s, Isles of Scilly

Great Bay, nestled on the charming St Martin’s island in the Isles of Scilly, is a true gem among family-friendly beaches. This serene haven offers a unique and safe environment for families to create unforgettable memories by the sea.

The beach is a stunning blend of fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, creating a postcard-perfect setting that’s ideal for kids and adults alike. Its calm and shallow waters make it perfect for little ones to paddle and swim without worry, while older children can enjoy snorkelling and exploring the vibrant marine life in the clear, gentle currents.

One of the standout features of Great Bay is its seclusion. It’s not as crowded as some of the more popular tourist destinations, allowing families to enjoy a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. It’s like having your own private beach, which adds to the overall sense of tranquillity.

For families seeking adventure, there are plenty of opportunities for rock pooling and beachcombing along the shoreline. Children can discover fascinating creatures and beautiful shells, fostering a connection with the natural world. Don’t forget to bring a bucket and a net to make the most of this exciting activity.

Great Bay also offers essential amenities for families. You’ll find clean restroom facilities, making it convenient for parents with young children. Picnic tables and benches are available for a seaside lunch, and there’s a nearby café where you can grab refreshments or ice cream.

Access to Great Bay is straightforward, as it’s just a short walk from the island’s quay. This convenience is particularly valuable for families with strollers or beach gear in tow. Plus, lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak season, providing an added layer of safety for families with children.

Final Thoughts

Cornwall’s family beaches offer wonderful opportunities for unforgettable vacations by the sea. 

From the tranquil shores of Great Bay in the Isles of Scilly to the vibrant coves along the Cornish coast, there’s a beach for every family’s preference. These beaches provide safe and fun environments for children to play, swim, and explore the natural world. And with amenities like clean facilities, cafes, and easy access, parents can relax and enjoy quality time with their loved ones. 

Whether you seek adventure in rock pools or simply want to relax on golden sands, Cornwall’s family beaches have it all. So, pack your sunscreen, beach towels, and buckets for a fantastic family adventure on Cornwall’s stunning shores.

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