
Kynance Cove
Kynance Cove is one of Cornwall’s most dramatic beaches. Branded as the ‘most perfect cove’ by the Victorians, its caribbean-like waters, golden sands and huge rock stacks have been attracting people for centuries. Backed by wild open heathland, the caves and rockpools entice adventure-seeking families and its waters tempt surfers and swimmers throughout the year. It’s a popular spot for geologists too — it’s home to rare serpentine rock, known as the ‘rock of a thousand hues and tones’. In the winter, grab a hot chocolate from the cafe above and watch the waves roll into this dramatic cove. Dogs are welcome between October and Easter Sunday.

Kennack Sands
Kennack Sands, near the villages of Kuggar and Ruan Minor on the Lizard peninsula, is a large beach with great amenities. It’s perfect for families, and there’s good lifeguard cover and plenty of space for kids to run. Low tide reveals amazing rockpools and there’s a great cafe serving tasty snacks and surf hire just off the sand. It is actually comprised of two beaches separated by huge cliffs and sand dunes — the one furthest from the car park is a nature reserve and often goes undiscovered by visitors as it’s hidden behind the hill that separates the two. Well worth a visit (there’s great shore fishing too!). Dogs are welcome between October and Easter Sunday.

Poldhu Cove
Poldhu is a sheltered cove with blissful golden sands, fascinating rockpools and surf school and hire next to the cafe. With seasonal lifeguards, it’s a great place to try out watersports, go for a paddle or, when the tide’s out, head to the rockpools for some exploring. There’s a cafe just up from the beach serving light lunches and legendary hot chocolates through a hatch, which you can enjoy on the benches in front. Dogs are welcome between October and Easter Sunday and there’s plenty of parking in the car park over the road.