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UPDATED 10/12/2025
Wild Atlantic swells on the north coast, sheltered coves on the south, charming fishing villages to the west, Cornwall packs a dozen holidays into one peninsula. But choosing the right base is make-or-break. For example, a foodie trip feels different in Padstow than it does in St Ives, while families often prefer Fowey’s calm estuary beaches over Newquay’s surfer vibes.
This guide walks you through the ten best places to stay in Cornwall, distilling years of local know-how into bite-sized insights, spilling our knowledge on where to park, how crowded it gets, must-see attractions, plus suggesting three gorgeous cottages in each town to spark ideas.
Tip: We refresh facts quarterly, and every Wednesday we add brand-new gems to our separate Weekly Picks feed (scroll down). Ready to find your Cornish match? Allow Cornish Secrets to assist.
Framed by silky-sand beaches and Instagram-worthy clear water, St Ives has lured painters since Turner first set up his easel here. Today you can hop from the Tate St Ives to Barbara Hepworth’s sculpture garden, then watch the same honey-light fade over Porthmeor Beach with a tub of Moomaid ice-cream in hand. Narrow lanes spill down to the harbour, where fishing boats unload crab for the town’s new-wave bistros and restaurants.
With wide sandy beaches, safe surf, and plenty of space to roam, Bude is one of Cornwall’s most family-friendly seaside towns. Summerleaze Beach, just minutes from the town centre, is perfect for little ones with its gently sloping shore and unique sea pool – a tidal lido great for safe splashing, or head to Crooklets for rockpooling adventures. From paddleboarding on calm canals to crabbing by the lock gates, there’s heaps to keep all ages entertained. The town is packed with cafés, tennis courts, crazy golf and even a skatepark, not forgetting plenty of ice-cream stops, and with the coast path right on your doorstep, there’s adventure at every turn.
Steins Takeaway in Padstow. Credit Sam Harris
Padstow has earned its stripes as Cornwall’s culinary capital – a harbour town that pairs coastal charm with mouth-watering menus. From Rick Stein’s seafood legacy to Paul Ainsworth’s Michelin-starred fare, this is the place to indulge. But it’s not all white tablecloths – think pasties fresh from the oven, harbourside fish and chips, and sunset cocktails overlooking the Camel Estuary. Meander through winding streets packed with delis, bakeries and artisan producers, or hop on the ferry to Rock and enjoy lunch with a view.
Tucked into Cornwall’s south coast, Mevagissey is a picture-perfect fishing village that feels like stepping back in time. Colourful cottages tumble down to the working harbour, where boats still bring in the daily catch and seagulls wheel overhead. Wander narrow streets filled with independent shops, old-fashioned pubs and local galleries. It’s an unhurried kind of place – ideal for savouring fish and chips on the quay, browsing gifts, or simply soaking up the sea air with an ice cream in hand.
Newquay is Cornwall’s adrenaline capital – the go-to destination for anyone after an active escape. With its world-famous surf, cliff-top coast path walks, and endless outdoor pursuits, it’s a haven for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Try your hand at coasteering, paddleboarding, or sea kayaking, or dive straight into surf school at Fistral or Towan. Away from the waves, there’s wild swimming, cycle trails, and scenic runs along the coast – all with breathtaking Atlantic views to spur you on, plus plenty of relaxed eateries to refuel.Â
©3deep Media
If you like to keep busy on holiday, Falmouth’s got you covered. With a rich maritime heritage, golden beaches, thriving arts scene and bustling town centre, there’s something for everyone here. Explore the award-winning National Maritime Museum, stroll through subtropical gardens, or take a boat trip across the Fal. From paddleboarding and sea swimming to gallery hopping and boutique shopping, Falmouth effortlessly blends coast, culture and community. And with great food, vibrant bars and regular events, it’s buzzing year-round.
For a relaxed family break by the sea, Portreath ticks all the right boxes. This friendly north coast village has a gently sloping sandy beach, perfect for paddling, sandcastle building, and safe swimming during the summer season. The surrounding cliffs and coast path offer scenic walks, while the flat Mineral Tramway Trail is ideal for family bike rides. With a handful of cafés, a bakery and a well-stocked shop, everything you need is close at hand – all wrapped up in a peaceful, down-to-earth atmosphere.
Tucked into a dramatic harbour on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, Boscastle is the perfect base for those keen to uncover the county’s natural beauty, folklore and heritage. The village is steeped in character, from its winding riverside paths and stone cottages to the iconic blowhole at the harbour entrance. Explore the cliff-top coast path, visit the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, or walk into ancient woodland with riverside trails. Boscastle is where myths, moorland and the sea collide – ideal for curious souls and nature lovers alike.
Hand-picked cottages in Boscastle
Marazion is one of Cornwall’s oldest towns, and it wears its heritage well. Perched on Mount’s Bay, this charming coastal spot is best known as the gateway to St Michael’s Mount – the legendary tidal island crowned by a medieval castle. At low tide, walk across the cobbled causeway to explore the gardens, ramparts and centuries of stories. Back in town, Marazion’s winding lanes host independent galleries, cosy cafés and local craft shops, all with sweeping sea views. It’s peaceful, picturesque and packed with history.
Hand-picked cottages in Marazion
With its crescent of golden sand and Caribbean-blue waters, Carbis Bay feels like a secret slice of paradise. This exclusive coastal enclave is known for its luxurious accommodation, award-winning spa hotel, and private beach feel – perfect for a pampered Cornish escape. Dine on the shoreline, indulge in a beachside massage, or simply soak up the serenity. Just one stop from St Ives on the scenic coastal train, Carbis Bay offers all the beauty, with a little more breathing space.
Hand-picked cottages in Carbis Bay
UPDATED 10/12/2025
Here you’ll find a curated, frequently updated guide to the best places to stay in Cornwall. Every week, the Cornish Secrets team selects the top ten stays whether you’re looking for a coastal cottage, an eco-stay with low carbon footprint, or something totally unique to Cornwall, this list highlights the finest stays available.
Where is it? Near Fowey
Why we love it:
When you’re searching for a large holiday home, you’re often faced with a bedroom conundrum with room size variables, however at Lantic Barn all five bedrooms are generously sized with three boasting private en-suites. We love how this property has blended character with modern-day comfort; retaining its original charm, expect chunky wooden beams, vaulted ceilings, and exposed granite to create a welcoming space. Of course let’s not forget the stunning sea views across St Austell Bay, best enjoyed from the large terrace. Oh, and did we forget to mention the private heated swimming pool?
Insider tip: If you’re toying with the idea of bringing your dog on holiday, Lantic Barn is wonderfully set up for four-legged friends with a private enclosed garden and fabulous dog-friendly walks nearby.
Where is it? Feock, near Falmouth
Why we love it:
Nestled in an idyllic creek-side location in Feock, Creek End is an impressive contemporary retreat that sleeps ten guests across four spacious bedrooms. The property features a home cinema room and a private bar area, ensuring entertainment for all ages. Its modern design and serene surroundings make it a perfect getaway for families and groups looking to experience Cornwall’s natural beauty in style.
Insider tip: You’re just a four-minute drive from the King Harry Ferry. Connecting St Mawes and the Roseland Peninsula with Feock, Truro and Falmouth – this avoids the road alternative 27 mile route. One of only five chain ferries in England, King Harry Ferry departs every 20 minutes from each side, seven days a week.
Where is it? Bude
Why we love it:
In our opinion, Ocean House truly has it all. Plenty of space? Check, five double bedrooms. Close to the beach? Another check, Crooklets Beach is less than five minutes on foot. Luxury touches? There’s plenty, from the premium bespoke kitchen to the freestanding double ended bath in the master bedroom with treetop views.
Split over three floors, we’re huge fans of the contemporary open-plan kitchen/diner with its floor-to-ceiling windows and bi-folding doors out to the raised decking for that inside/outside living vibe making it a fabulous space for families.
Insider tip: Ocean House has recently added a custom-made pétanque court at the bottom of the garden. Much like the much-loved game of boules, pétanque is a French game where players throw balls at a target ball.
Where is it? near Padstow
Why we love it:
Peacehay Barn is the perfect retreat for families or groups looking to combine space, style, and comfort in a prime location just outside Padstow. This beautifully converted property offers expansive open-plan living areas, high ceilings, and plenty of room for everyone to spread out, relax, and make the most of their stay.
Outside, the private hot tub provides a touch of indulgence, ideal for unwinding after a day exploring Cornwall’s coast or enjoying Padstow’s renowned food scene. For fun indoors, the brand-new games cabin ensures endless entertainment for all ages, making it a superb choice in any season.
Insider tip: If you want to leave the car at home, you’re also in walking distance of an award-winning restaurant, a Cornish vineyard and a micro brewery… what are you waiting for?
Where is it? Perranuthnoe
Why we love it:
When it comes to holiday homes, a lot of attention is given to the living space, and while we assure you Angel View has an incredible open-plan space downstairs, we fell head over heels for the master bedroom. Facing southwest, expect floor-to-ceiling windows, with sweeping view across Perranuthnoe and the sea, electric full-length blinds which can be operated from the lavish super king-sized bed, and an opulent en-suite which features not only a freestanding shower but a tub to sink into, too. In the morning step out to the private balcony with chairs and a table for two, offering unrivalled views for your morning coffee.
Insider tip: You’re just a four-minute walk from the cosy village pub The Victoria Inn which serves up award-winning food and is a must try. Once you’ve refuelled, enjoy the bespoke fire in the lounge back at Angel View – it’s the perfect spot for a warming hot chocolate.
Where is it? Rock
Why we love it:
Tucked away in the exclusive village of Rock, Balangan is a contemporary coastal hideaway designed for indulgent escapes. With three beautifully styled bedrooms, this chic retreat blends open-plan living with thoughtful luxury. The spacious kitchen and lounge open out onto a private sunny terrace, where a hot tub and barrel sauna await for the ultimate unwind. Sleek interiors, quality finishes and a serene setting make it perfect for both lazy beach days and cosy evenings in. Just moments from Rock’s foodie spots, ferry to Padstow and glorious coastal walks, Balangan offers a boutique-style base in north Cornwall’s most sought-after spot.
Insider tip: Balangan has just had traditional Scandinavian-style barrel sauna installed! Crafted from smooth timber, it offers a blissful, aromatic escape for post-beach relaxation and wellbeing.
Where is it? Near Fowey
Why we love it:
If you’re in the throes of planning a special family holiday, let us introduce you to Daymarker, which has all the ingredients for a memorable getaway sleeping eight in comforting luxury. We love this property’s positioning as you have the best of both worlds, just over a mile drive from fabulous Fowey – which is the south coast’s answer to Padstow (think amazing food, picturesque harbour, and Cornish charm) while family-friendly sandy Polkerris Beach with its world class watersports is a short stroll away. The best bit for us has to be the private heated pool, whether you choose to start of end your day with a dip, it’ll be a holiday highlight for all ages.
Insider tip: If you’re wanting to holiday with other families, join forces and book Lantic Barn and Little Polkerris too (combined guest total 20), set on the same heavenly spot of land.
Where is it? Watergate Bay
Why we love it:
Set just 400 m from the sand and surf of Watergate Bay, Stable Cottage is a bright, contemporary retreat for up to eight guests. Its vaulted ceilings, exposed stone walls, and coastal‑tone décor echo its seaside surroundings. The open-plan kitchen/living/dining space, complete with quality appliances and a skylight-lit dining table, is ideal for relaxed family gatherings. It divides into two bedroom wings – luxurious super‑king and king doubles at the front, plus a twin and bunk room at the rear – each with ample storage. Outside, it’s secluded among lawns, yet just moments from award‑winning beaches, making it perfect for a quintessential Cornish getaway.
Insider tip: With Newquay Airport just minutes away, Stable Cottage is perfect for a car-free Cornish escape. Walk to Watergate Bay, dine locally, and enjoy scenic coastal paths right from your doorstep.
Where is it? Bude
Why we love it:
Out of all of our properties at Cornish Secrets, this one triumphs with the shortest distance to the beach. And it’s not just any beach, Crooklets Beach in Bude scooped both a Seaside Award and gained prestigious Blue Flag status in 2025, meaning it’s recognised as a well-managed beaches with excellent water quality, and at Ocean Edge, it’s a thirty second walk away.
You won’t need to worry about parking either with your own private parking space and complimentary electric car charger. This property’s wow factor has to be the private south-facing balcony at the front of the property.
Insider tip: After a winter dip at Crooklets Beach why not book in at Ocean Soul Sauna where you can experience breath-taking sea views through a panoramic half-moon window in this wood-fired sauna, just a minute’s walk from Ocean’s Edge.
Where is it? Near Bude
Why we love it:
You’ll feel like lord or lady of the manor at Ravenscourt. Decadence reigns here, making it an opulent choice for a holiday in Cornwall; from the five well-appointed bedrooms on offer, to the expansive secluded grounds, this grand Grade II listed building is a former rectory which stands tall amidst the immaculate gardens which wrap around the house. The outside space is just colossal, garden games are supplied, there’s a bespoke clay pizza oven, Norfolk Grills BBQ and a brilliant patio space kitted out with plush outdoor furniture.
Insider tip: Book a stay during the months of April or May and you’ll see the house draped with pretty wisteria, and the garden in springtime bloom.
Rebecca Moore
LOCAL EDITOR AND CORNISH AFICIONADO
Rebecca Moore is a seasoned editor and content writer with over a decade of experience, specialising in Cornwall’s unique lifestyle, travel, and culinary scene. Her expertise has been featured in media outlets such as The Sun, Express, and Cosmopolitan. A proud Cornish resident, Rebecca’s authentic insights help readers explore the best of the Duchy.
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