There’s no need to jet off to a far-flung destination this February half term – Cornwall’s beautiful beaches offer the perfect escape. From dramatic cliffs and sheltered coves to long, sandy strands – there’s endless beaches to explore! Here are some of our favourites to discover with the kids this February.
1.Plan your visit to some of the best beaches in Cornwall this February Half Term
With February Half Term on the horizon, many families are thinking about a beach-side adventure. If you’re looking for a beautiful beach destination, Cornwall is the perfect choice. There are plenty of amazing beaches to choose from, and the weather usually starts getting a bit milder in February.
Here’s a quick overview of the best beaches in Cornwall to put on your ‘to-do’ list this February half term:
Fistral Beach: This stunning beach is famous for so many reasons! Be it the powerful and breath-taking swell that attracts surfers the world over, or the iconic scenery that’s been home to many a film set over the years – Fistral is renowned for and it’s known for its awesome waves, laid back eateries and a classically ‘Cornish’ atmosphere.
Perranporth: This 3-mile beach is a great choice for families, with plenty of space for the kids to run around and tire themselves out! This wide and sandy expanse presents visitors with plenty to explore, from paddling to rock pools.
Crantock: This beach is known for its gentle waves and stunning coastline. It’s a great place to relax, wander and enjoy the natural beauty of Cornwall.
Holywell Bay: Expect dramatic coastal scenes straight out of Poldark from this magnificent sandy beach! An absolute treat for the eyes awaits you here, as beautiful Gull Rock sits majestically against the horizon. Let the children play in the dunes while you stroll hand in hand along this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Towan: Towan Beach is a true favourite among families! Sitting at the bottom of a sloping hill in Newquay, the beach sits between the harbour to the West and ‘the Island’ to the East – a towering, rocky outcrop connected to the mainland by a suspension footbridge. Head over here at low tide and you’ll be able to explore so much of Newquay’s stunning coastline – follow the sea along to both Great Western and Tolcarne Beach, connected by the sandy strip.
2.Visit some of the most popular beaches in the area, such as Fistral Beach and Perranporth
If you’re looking for some of the best beaches in Cornwall, you’ll want to make sure you visit Fistral Beach and Perranporth. These two beaches are some of the most popular in the area, and they’re known for their stunning views and great surfing conditions. If you’re lucky enough to arrive at Fistral when the swell is right, you may even see the famous Cribbar wave, renowned (and often feared) among surfers across the globe! Make sure you grab some fish & chips from Rick Stein’s while you’re here – there’s nothing quite like standing on the Headland with the family and tucking in to some delicious lunch with the waves crashing ahead.
Perranporth is located just an 18-minute drive from Newquay, and is a fantastic little seaside town to explore. The beach stretches out for 3 miles, and is a popular spot for families looking for space to explore! Pop into The Watering Hole to refuel while you’re here – one of the U.K’s only pubs located right on the beach – a superb spot to watch the sunset.
3.Take advantage of the stunning scenery and explore the coastline by foot or bike
The coastline of the province is dotted with picturesque villages, sheltered coves, and sandy beaches. A great way to explore the area is by following the South West Coast Path on foot or by bike. There are a number of trails that wind through the villages and along the coast, providing stunning views of the sea. Bikes can be rented in most towns, making it easy to get around. Be sure to stop at some of the local restaurants and pubs for a bite to eat or a drink! If you head East from Newquay, you’ll find yourself at beautiful Watergate Bay, a gorgeous two-mile beach (at low tide) that’s home to some enormous waves coming in from the Atlantic. This is also a great spot to stop for something to eat, with a collection of delicious restaurants that boast incredible sea views.
Bear in mind, the walk from Newquay is about 45 minutes, with many hills and valleys – so bring your energy!
4.Pack your wetsuits and brave the waves with a family surf lesson!
Grab your wetsuits or rent some when you get down here! For those families who believe the sea isn’t just for summer, it’s time to hit the waves! You’ll find a multitude of surf schools in Newquay who would be stoked to take you out on a lesson. A truly memorable experience for the whole family, surfing is a great way to have some fun, learn something new, connect with the sea and get some exercise. Escape Surf School is located right above Towan Beach – the perfect spot for a lesson as the swell is a bit more sheltered – book your session and get ready for the best day of your holiday!
5.Enjoy the sand and sea and take a break from the winter blues
After what feels like an endless winter, the Cornish coast offers a rejuvenating break for the whole family. With Spring approaching fast, come and take advantage of the crisp sea air as the coast begins its transition into the next season. Few places in the U.K offer such a magical place to pause, connect, reflect and recharge with the family – and the beach is the perfectly place to do it, whichever you choose to visit.
It’s time the whole family had a treat, it’s time to unwind, it’s time to tucker out the kids and make some everlasting memories in Cornwall!