Sunset Sands

Sunset Sands

Modern holiday home with sea views in Holywell Bay on the north coast

Sleeps up to 8 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 dogs welcome Saturday arrival Short breaks available
The Retreat
Tucked into the corner of a peaceful cul-de-sac in Holywell, Sunset Sands is a stylish four-bedroom holiday home just moments from the sand dunes, beach bar and coast path. Set across one light-filled level with sea views towards Gull Rock, this homely yet contemporary retreat is made for easy-going beach holidays — with surf, sand and sunsets all on the doorstep.
Inside

Step through the front door into a bright and spacious open-plan living area, where full-length windows frame views across the dunes and towards the sea. With an L-shaped sofa, smart TV, and high-ceilinged dining space with a table spacious enough for all guests, it’s a sociable heart to the retreat. Folding doors open fully to the outside terrace, letting the sunshine and sea breeze in — perfect for al fresco suppers or slow mornings with coffee and a view.

The kitchen is well-equipped for relaxed family meals, with a central island, bar stools, and everything you might need for self-catering. Down the hallway, the bedrooms are calm and comfortable, with quiet corners for reading, playing or simply winding down.

The principal bedroom has a king-size bed, modern en suite and sea glimpses from full-length windows. The en suite is spacious with a walk in shower. The second bedroom and third bedroom are both doubles, one with views to the sea and the other tucked just off the living space, ideal for extra privacy or early risers. The fourth bedroom is a fun, playful space ideal for children, with a bunk bed and room to spread out.

A family bathroom with freestanding bath and overhead rainfall shower sits along the main corridor, next to a practical utility room with washing and drying facilities — ideal after a day of beach adventures.

Outside

The garden is perfectly placed for golden-hour sunsets, with views stretching across the valley and dunes. A raised patio wraps around the retreat, giving a villa-like feel, and there’s plenty of outdoor furniture for long lunches and laid-back dinners. A barbecue and firepit area sit in a sheltered front nook, while a suntrap by the door makes a lovely spot for morning coffee or a good book.

Children will love the in-ground trampoline, set safely behind the house with surrounding net walls for peace of mind. The garden is enclosed which means it's great for those with dogs, and it's very well thought-out, offering space to play, dine and relax in comfort.

There’s parking for two cars on the gravel drive, framed by tropical palms, and the retreat’s single-storey layout makes it a great choice for multigenerational stays. Whether you're looking for a break with friends or family, this holiday home really does have it all.

Things we love

Holywell Bay is a hidden gem on Cornwall’s north coast — with golden sands, dramatic dunes, and a gentle stream running down to the sea. Popular with families and surfers alike, it’s a laid-back and unspoilt stretch of coastline. You’re just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, a friendly beach bar and a thatched-roof local pub.

From the retreat you have direct access to join the South West Coast Path. Walk north to Polly Joke for a peaceful picnic or a chance to spot seals, or follow the cliffs into Newquay with its cafés, beaches and independent shops. Head south for a scenic route to Perranporth, where you’ll often find live music on the beach at The Watering Hole.

Back at Sunset Sands, soak up the sunset from the terrace, get cosy in the lounge on rainy days, or gather round the firepit for marshmallows and stargazing. This is a retreat that feels both special and lived-in — stylish, comfortable, and just the right amount of fuss-free.
Beautiful accommodation
Beautiful accommodation in a beautiful part of the world. Was exactly what we needed for a trip to catch up with family & friends. Holywell Bay beach is beautiful. We enjoyed a surf lesson with Lee on the beach during our stay. Pub is super friendly and a one min walk. The beach bar does great coffee/breakfast/dinner and is a great spot for patting lots of super friendly doggies! Super comfy beds and great facilities, bodyboards x2 which we enjoyed using. The garden is wonderful and such a great spot for evening drinks. Everything was very clean & looked pretty new.
Melanie
Details

Retreat Details

SLEEPING
Principal bedroom: super king bed with en suite
Bedroom two: king bed
Bedroom three: double bed
Bedroom four: bunk beds
All bed linen provided
BATHROOM
Family bathroom with bath
En suite with shower
All bathroom towels provided (please bring your own beach towels)
LIVING & RELAXING
Comfortable seating or all guests
Open-plan living area
Smart TV
WiFi
COOKING & DINING
Breakfast bar seating three
Dining table seating all guests
Dishwasher
Induction hob
Kitchen island
Oven
OUTDOORS
Built in trampoline
Firepit
Outdoor kitchen
Outside area with seating
BABIES & TODDLERS
Travel cot and highchair available on request (linen not provided)
PETS
Up to two well-behaved dogs welcome
Dog secure garden
UTILITIES & HEATING
Separate utility room
Tumble dryer
Underfloor heating
Washing machine
Essential cleaning items
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Check in from 4pm
Check out by 10am
PARKING
Private parking for three cars
ACCESSIBILITY
Not suitable for wheelchairs
Single floor property
Steps down to retreat from parking
Please contact us for more accessibility information
Location

Holywell Bay

Holywell Bay is made up of towering dunes winged by rugged cliffs, with the distinctive Gull Rocks sitting just offshore. The long stretch of sand and azure waters make for a stunning location – so stunning that you may recognise it as a filming location on BBC’s Poldark or James Bond! When on the beach you can see very little buildings, which makes the place feel unspoiled and a world away from any town or city. If you want to be somewhere a bit more rural and peaceful without missing out on the action of Newquay, Holywell Bay is ideal for you.

The holywell bay guide

Perfectly placed

Holywell Bay is one of North Cornwall’s best-kept secrets. Tucked between Perranporth and Newquay, this peaceful coastal village is known for its sweeping golden beach, towering sand dunes and the iconic Gull Rocks that rise from the sea. While it’s just a short drive from some of Cornwall’s most popular attractions, Holywell Bay has retained its relaxed atmosphere and unspoilt charm.

Staying in one of our Holywell Bay holiday homes means you’re only moments from the beach, with the South West Coast Path, spectacular sunsets and miles of coastline right on your doorstep. Whether you’re planning a family beach holiday, a dog-friendly getaway or a surfing escape, Holywell Bay offers the perfect base, with Newquay, Crantock and Perranporth all within easy reach.

Sand dunes in Holywell Bay, Newquay, Cornwall, Forever Cornwalll

Beach life in Holywell Bay

Holywell Bay Beach is the reason so many visitors return year after year. Backed by one of the largest sand dune systems in Britain, this vast stretch of golden sand offers plenty of space to relax, even during the height of summer. Popular with families, surfers and dog walkers alike, it’s one of North Cornwall’s most loved beaches. Dogs are welcome all year round, while RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach throughout the summer season.

At low tide, you can explore the fascinating Holywell Cave beneath the cliffs, discover rock pools or paddle in the stream that winds its way across the sand before reaching the sea. Surfers can hire equipment or book lessons directly on the beach, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced wave riders.___

With its dramatic dunes, iconic Gull Rocks and breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic, Holywell Bay Beach is a place you’ll want to return to time and time again, whether you’re spending the day on the sand or simply enjoying a walk along the shoreline.

Eat, Drink & Unwind

One of the joys of staying in Holywell Bay is that everything is within walking distance. After a day on the beach, enjoy a relaxed meal at the traditional Treguth Inn or stop for drinks and food at Gull Rocks Beach Bar overlooking the dunes. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast before a surf or watching the sun disappear into the Atlantic with an evening drink, Holywell Bay has a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

If you’d like more choice, the restaurants, cafés and seafood spots of Newquay and Perranporth are only a short drive away, but many guests find themselves happily spending their entire holiday without leaving the village.

Beaches

Holywell Bay

This wide sweep of golden sand, backed by one of Britain’s largest sand dune systems, is a beach for every season. Whether you’re storm watching in winter, relaxing with a book in summer or letting little ones paddle in the winding stream, Holywell Bay Beach offers something for everyone. If you’re keen to get out on the water, surf and bodyboard hire, as well as lessons, are available from Holywell Bay School of Surf and Cornwall Surf Academy.

At low tide, you can explore the fascinating Holywell Cave (just be sure to check the tides) and spot the remains of the Argentinian coaster SS Francia, which struck the rocks in 1917. End the day with a picnic amongst the dunes or watch the sun set behind the iconic Gull Rocks – one of the most photographed views in North Cornwall.

Lifeguarded: Mid May–end of September
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round

Porth Joke (Polly Joke)

Better known locally as Polly Joke, this beautiful National Trust beach lies between Holywell Bay and Crantock and feels wonderfully secluded. Reached via a gentle 20-minute walk from the National Trust car park at West Pentire, it’s a peaceful alternative to some of North Cornwall’s busier beaches.

A small stream winds its way across the sand, making it ideal for children to paddle and build sandcastles, while dogs are welcome all year round. With no facilities nearby, it’s the perfect place to bring a picnic and enjoy a slower pace. Visit in early summer to see the surrounding headland carpeted with red poppies and yellow corn marigolds.

Lifeguarded: No
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round

The Gem Newquay Crantock

Crantock

Where the River Gannel meets the sea, Crantock Beach is one of North Cornwall’s most picturesque stretches of coastline. Sheltered by rolling sand dunes and backed by the charming village of Crantock, it’s a favourite for families, paddleboarders and anyone looking for a more relaxed day by the sea.

At low tide, the wide expanse of golden sand is perfect for beach games and long walks, while the calm waters of the estuary are ideal for paddling and kayaking. During the summer months, RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach, making it a great choice for families with younger children.

Lifeguarded: Mid May–end of September
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round

Food & drink

The Truguth Inn

This beautiful 13th-century thatched pub in the centre of Holywell is just a couple of hundred metres from the epic sands of Holywell Bay so it’s the perfect place for an post-surf pint and basket of loaded chips, or a hearty lunch or dinner; their Sunday roasts are popular so make sure you book ahead. Inside, it’s full of character, with low beams interior and cosy atmosphere. There’s a large garden which you can spill out into on sunny days, and you’re only a few minutes’ walk to the golden sands of Holywell Bay.

Gull Rocks Bar & Coffee House

At the head of the track that winds to Holywell Bay you’ll find the Gull Rocks Bar & Coffee House, a friendly beachside bar and cafe serving breakfast baps, homemade lunches, such as fish and chips and chunky sandwiches, and delicious cream teas. It’s a brilliant spot for dog walkers to refuel, with it’s large outside terrace and benches under parasols and has stunning views of the bay beyond.

 

Bowgie Inn Crantock

Bowgie Inn

On a dramatic clifftop halfway between the beautiful beaches of Crantock and Polly Joke, the popular Bowgie Inn (Bowgie means ‘cowshed’ in Cornish — there used to be an old farm on this site) has wonderful views over the bay below and is just a short hop from the coastal path, making it the perfect stop off on a coastal walk. Inside, the sleek curved bar serves up local craft ales and liquors, with plenty of Cornish gins, and there’s award-winning food with lots of veggie and vegan options. Outside, the sun terrace has to be one of Cornwall’s loveliest, with spectacular views over the bay.

Buying local

Holywell Bay, Newquay and the surrounding area has lots of places where you can get hold of fresh, local produce, including bakeries and delis, butchers and breweries. Its weekly farmers’ market, held in the heart of town, is a great place to get hold of all your Cornish goodies to take back home. Mawgan Porth, five miles north, is also home to a brilliant beachfront food market supporting local suppliers and artisan food producers.

Check out our guide to Shopping local in Holywell Bay, Newquay and the surrounding area

Things to do
Surfers at Mawgan Porth beach near Forever Cornwall holiday cottages

Take to the waves

Staying in Cornwall invariably involves getting out on the water, so if you fancy trying your hand at surfing while you’re here, you can’t beat this area. Holywell Bay, sandwiched between Crantock and Perranporth, two other brilliant surf beaches, offers fantastic surf for all abilities, whether you’re a pro or just starting out. There are two surf schools that run board hire and lessons from Holywell Bay, including Holywell Bay Surf School, the longest running surf school in the area who are based on the beach front, and the Cornwall Surf Academy, who also run coasteering, paddleboard sessions and biking lessons in the surrounding countryside.

Train

Lappa Valley

The railway originally operated as a mineral line in the mid 19th century, transporting minerals between Newquay and East Wheal Rose, five miles south. Lappa Valley is now one of Cornwall’s favourite tourist attractions, ferrying passengers through the Cornish countryside on a nostalgic steam train ride. There’s a boating lake with canoes and pedaloes, crazy golf course, a huge soft play area, outdoor play areas, and woodland walks and trails to discover across the 35-acre site.

Trerice House and Gardens

Three miles east of Newquay, the Elizabethan manor house of Trerice is one of north Cornwall’s finest National Trust properties, a small but stately Tudor house surrounded by extensive gardens that include many specimen trees and beautiful apple orchards, a maze and a ‘kayling’ lawn where you can try your hand at the traditional game of Cornish kayles. Rooms include a long hallway fille with paintings and a stunning master bedroom with vaulted ceilings.

Beach near holiday cottages in Newquay by Forever Cornwall

Newquay’s attractions

One of the best things about Holywell Bay is that you can enjoy the peace and quiet of this little bay but still be within easy reach of the bright lights of Newquay and all the brilliant things to do in the town. Not only are there some great places to visit for rainy days, such as the aquarium and zoo, but there are amazing places to eat and drink, including farm shops and markets, spas for indulgent days, great shopping and, of course, some of the north coast’s best surfing beaches.

Enhance your stay

Affordable private dining

Imagine your own private chef! It’s far more affordable than you think, and it supports local businesses. Discover how to find and book the right chef for you!

Follow this link to read more.

Reviews
  • Incredible

    We had an amazing week. The house was fantastic, with a beautiful view of the sea from a gorgeous garden and patio area with incredible sunsets. Very lucky with the weather (May bank holiday) which made it feel like we were in a Villa in Spain. The garden was perfect for the children to play. Enjoyed a BBQ and Fire Pit with toasted marshmallows. This accommodation for a family of 5 had everything we needed. Lovely decor, great facilities. The layout of the house was perfect, very family friendly and a social house for gatherings. Can’t recommend this house enough, 10 minute walk to the beach. Great beach bar/cafe. Took coastal walk to Polly Joke to see the seals; and a walk the other way to Perranporth. Sand dunes on Holywell beach were great fun for the children. It was an incredible week. Thank you so much for the use of such a well looked after home.

    Christine & family — May 2026
  • Amazing

    Amazing accommodation, we looked forward to coming back at the end of the day. Had some wonderful barbecues looking out at the stunning views and had everything that we needed for a relaxing, stress-free stay. Thank you.

    May 2026
  • Very close to the beach

    The most beautiful stay in a great location, very close to the beach and local pubs. The property is perfect too!

    Eleanor — May 2026
  • Stunning house!

    A beautiful stay for a week, the house itself is stunning and we also got very lucky with the weather making it the most perfect stay! We will be back, thank you!

    The Price family — May 2026
  • Lovely

    Just perfect...this is my second stay here...the location and beach/sea views are just lovely. We were blessed with lovely weather too which just added to our stay.

    Izabela — April 2026
  • Memories we will cherish

    What a perfect stay. House is beautiful and so well thought through. Views and area are just idyllic and we have all loved the beach. We had great fun at Lappa Valley, Newquay aquarium and paddle boarding at Crantock beach. Amazing home. Memories we will cherish forever!

    April 2026
  • Gorgeous views

    A very enjoyable stay with family for the Easter week. A perfect home for a family get together. We loved the gorgeous views and the trips to the beach.

    The Wright family — April 2026
  • Beautiful accommodation

    Beautiful accommodation in a beautiful part of the world. Was exactly what we needed for a trip to catch up with family & friends. Holywell Bay beach is beautiful. We enjoyed a surf lesson with Lee on the beach during our stay. Pub is super friendly and a one min walk. The beach bar does great coffee/breakfast/dinner and is a great spot for patting lots of super friendly doggies! Super comfy beds and great facilities, bodyboards x2 which we enjoyed using. The garden is wonderful and such a great spot for evening drinks. Everything was very clean & looked pretty new.

    Melanie — July 2025
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Good to know

Short breaks are available on selected dates (Friday, Saturday or Monday arrivals only, 3 night minimum). If you can't see the dates you would like online please contact the team.