Cornwall, England's southwestern peninsula, combines dramatic coastlines, golden beaches, charming fishing villages, and a unique cultural heritage. With the warmest climate in the UK, lush sub-tropical gardens, and a thriving food scene, Cornwall offers a perfect coastal escape with a distinctly Mediterranean feel.

Having spent childhood summers and countless adult trips exploring Cornwall's winding coastal paths and hidden coves, I'm delighted to share this guide to the region's most enchanting coastal towns and villages. Each has its own distinct character, from the artistic havens of St. Ives and Newquay's surfing culture to the maritime heritage of Falmouth and the timeless charm of fishing villages like Polperro.

North Coast Gems

Cornwall's northern coastline faces the Atlantic Ocean, with rugged cliffs, excellent surfing beaches, and dramatic scenery.

St. Ives

Perhaps Cornwall's most famous artistic community, St. Ives combines stunning beaches with world-class galleries. The quality of light here has attracted artists for generations, leading to the establishment of Tate St. Ives and numerous independent galleries and studios.

Key highlights include:

  • Tate St. Ives: A stunning gallery overlooking Porthmeor Beach, showcasing modern British artists with connections to the St. Ives area.
  • Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden: The former home and studio of one of Britain's most important 20th-century sculptors, featuring her works set in a beautiful garden.
  • Porthminster Beach: A sheltered, golden sand beach with the award-winning Porthminster Beach Café offering excellent seafood with a view.
  • The Harbour: The heart of the old fishing town, lined with cottages, shops, and restaurants, where you can watch fishing boats come and go with their daily catch.

Travel Tip: Parking can be extremely challenging in St. Ives, especially in summer. Consider staying in nearby accommodations with parking and using the scenic branch line train from St. Erth, which offers stunning coastal views as it approaches the town.

Padstow

This charming fishing port on the Camel Estuary has transformed into a foodie destination thanks largely to celebrity chef Rick Stein, who operates several establishments here. The working harbor remains the focal point, surrounded by pastel-colored cottages housing restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops.

Don't miss:

  • Seafood Restaurants: From Rick Stein's flagship The Seafood Restaurant to Paul Ainsworth at No. 6, Padstow offers exceptional dining options focusing on locally sourced fish and shellfish.
  • Camel Trail: This 18-mile recreational route follows a disused railway line along the scenic Camel Estuary, perfect for cycling or walking.
  • Stepper Point: A short coastal walk from town to this headland offers spectacular views of the estuary and coastline.
  • 'Obby 'Oss Festival: If visiting on May 1st, witness one of Britain's oldest folk festivals, featuring music, dancing, and the mysterious 'Obby 'Oss characters parading through town.

Port Isaac

Made famous as the filming location for the TV series "Doc Martin" (where it's known as Portwenn), Port Isaac is a traditional fishing village with narrow winding streets lined with whitewashed cottages. The village dates to the 14th century and retains much of its historic charm.

Highlights include:

  • The Harbour: Watch fishing boats land their catch on the slipway of this working harbor.
  • Squeezy Belly Alley: Officially named Temple Bar, this is one of Britain's narrowest thoroughfares at just 18 inches wide.
  • Fisherman's Friends: If you're lucky, you might catch a performance by this famous sea shanty group who regularly sing on the harbor during summer evenings.
  • Restaurant Nathan Outlaw: In nearby Port Gaverne, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers some of the UK's finest seafood.

Tintagel

This village is dominated by the ruins of its famous castle, legendarily associated with King Arthur. Dramatically situated on a windswept headland partially cut off from the mainland, Tintagel Castle is now accessible via a striking modern bridge that recreates the original land link.

Beyond the castle, Tintagel offers:

  • Merlin's Cave: Accessible at low tide beneath the castle, this atmospheric sea cave features in Arthurian legends.
  • St. Materiana's Church: A 12th-century church standing in isolation on the headland with beautiful coastal views.
  • King Arthur's Great Halls: Built in the 1930s by a businessman inspired by Arthurian legends, featuring stained glass windows depicting tales of the Knights of the Round Table.

South Coast Havens

Cornwall's southern coast, facing the English Channel, generally offers a milder climate and more sheltered harbors, resulting in a series of quintessential fishing villages and natural harbors.

Fowey

Pronounced "Foy," this deep-water harbor town has inspired writers including Daphne du Maurier and Kenneth Grahame. With its narrow streets, medieval and Georgian buildings, and bustling waterfront, Fowey balances its status as a tourist destination with its working port functions.

Key attractions include:

  • Fowey Estuary: Take a boat trip or ferry across to Polruan to appreciate the beauty of this natural harbor.
  • Readymoney Cove: A small, sheltered beach at the mouth of the estuary, overlooked by St. Catherine's Castle.
  • Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature: Held annually in May, celebrating the town's literary connections.
  • Hall Walk: A circular walk crossing the estuary via two ferry rides, offering outstanding views of Fowey and Polruan.

Falmouth

Home to the world's third-largest natural deep-water harbor, Falmouth combines maritime heritage with beach life, cultural attractions, and a vibrant food scene. The town has been rejuvenated in recent years, partly due to the influence of its university, which specializes in creative arts.

Don't miss:

  • National Maritime Museum Cornwall: An award-winning museum celebrating Cornwall's maritime heritage, with interactive exhibits and a constantly changing program of exhibitions.
  • Pendennis Castle: Built by Henry VIII to defend the Carrick Roads (the name for Falmouth's harbor entrance), this well-preserved coastal fortress offers panoramic views.
  • Gyllyngvase Beach: A Blue Flag beach with a popular café and water sports opportunities.
  • Events: Falmouth hosts numerous events, including Falmouth Week (sailing regatta), the Sea Shanty Festival, and the Oyster Festival.

Polperro

Often described as the prettiest village in Cornwall, Polperro is a jumble of whitewashed cottages clustered around a small harbor. With no vehicle access to the center (a park and ride operates from the outskirts), the village retains an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

Highlights include:

  • Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling & Fishing: Chronicling the village's colorful past when smuggling was a major local industry.
  • The Harbor: Still home to a small fleet of fishing boats, protected from the sea by a sturdy breakwater.
  • Willy Wilcox Cave: A sea cave beneath the cliff at the harbor entrance, allegedly used by smugglers.
  • Coastal Path: Walk east to Talland Bay or west to Lansallos for spectacular cliff-top views.

St. Mawes

Situated on the Roseland Peninsula across the estuary from Falmouth, St. Mawes is one of Cornwall's most exclusive coastal villages. Its sheltered position at the mouth of the Carrick Roads provides a unique microclimate, supporting palm trees and exotic plants that create an almost Mediterranean atmosphere.

Key attractions include:

  • St. Mawes Castle: Another of Henry VIII's coastal fortresses, smaller than Pendennis but beautifully preserved and decorated with Renaissance details.
  • St. Mawes Harbour: Watch the comings and goings of fishing boats and yachts in this picturesque harbor.
  • Place Ferry: Take the passenger ferry to Place and walk the coastal path to St. Anthony Head with its lighthouse and military defenses.
  • Hotel Tresanton: Even if you're not staying at this famous luxury hotel created by Olga Polizzi, enjoy a drink on its terrace with a stunning sea view.

Hidden Coastal Treasures

Beyond the well-known destinations, Cornwall's coastline is dotted with smaller communities that offer authentic experiences away from the crowds:

Mousehole

Pronounced "Mowzul," this tiny fishing village near Penzance was described by Dylan Thomas as "the loveliest village in England." Its narrow streets wind down to a small harbor protected by two breakwaters, creating a sheltered swimming spot at high tide.

Visit during December to see the famous Mousehole Christmas Lights, when the harbor and village are illuminated with an elaborate display including sea serpents, fishing boats, and Celtic designs.

Boscastle

This village features a spectacular natural harbor formed by a narrow inlet flanked by towering cliffs. Largely rebuilt after a devastating flash flood in 2004, Boscastle retains its historic charm with Elizabethan cottages and a medieval harbor.

The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, housing the world's largest collection of witchcraft-related artifacts, offers an intriguing glimpse into folk traditions and magical beliefs.

Portloe

One of the Roseland Peninsula's hidden gems, Portloe is a tiny fishing village that has escaped major development. Its steep, narrow lanes lead to a small cove where a handful of fishing boats still operate. The village featured in the Richard Curtis film "About Time" and offers a peaceful alternative to busier destinations.

Coverack

Located on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula, Coverack features a crescent-shaped beach, working harbor, and picturesque cottages. Geologists are drawn here to see the unique rock formations, as the village sits on the boundary between two types of rock formed when a slice of oceanic crust was pushed up onto the continental crust.

Cornwall's Beach Culture

With over 300 beaches along its 422 miles of coastline, Cornwall offers endless opportunities for beach lovers:

Surfing Beaches

The north coast is renowned for its surfing conditions, with beaches like Fistral in Newquay, Watergate Bay, and Polzeath attracting surfers of all abilities. Numerous surf schools offer lessons for beginners, while experienced surfers seek out less crowded spots like Porthtowan and Constantine Bay.

Family-Friendly Beaches

The south coast generally offers calmer waters ideal for families with young children. Beaches like Porthcurno (with the dramatic Minack Theatre overlooking it), Marazion (overlooked by St. Michael's Mount), and Swanpool in Falmouth offer safe swimming and amenities like cafés and restrooms.

Hidden Coves

For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Cornwall rewards with secret coves accessible only by foot or boat:

  • Lantic Bay: A 20-minute walk from the National Trust car park near Polruan leads to this stunning beach with crystal-clear waters.
  • Pedn Vounder: Near Porthcurno, this beach is reached via a challenging scramble down the cliff but rewards with Caribbean-like white sand and turquoise water on a sunny day.
  • Portheras Cove: Between St. Ives and Land's End, this remote beach offers pristine sands and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, including seals and various seabirds.

Cornish Culture and Heritage

Beyond its natural beauty, Cornwall offers a rich cultural experience deeply connected to its maritime history and distinct identity:

Fishing Heritage

Fishing remains integral to many coastal communities. Visitors can experience this heritage by:

  • Watching the catch being landed at working harbors like Newlyn and Mevagissey
  • Visiting the National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth
  • Dining at restaurants serving fresh-caught local seafood
  • Taking a fishing trip with a local skipper

Cornish Language and Identity

Cornwall has a distinct cultural identity, with its own language (Kernewek), traditions, and flag (St. Piran's black flag with a white cross). Although Cornish language speakers were lost by the late 18th century, revival efforts have seen increased interest, with bilingual street signs now common in many areas.

Mining History

Cornwall's landscape is dotted with remnants of its mining past, with engine houses perched dramatically on cliff edges. The "Cornish Mining Landscape" is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing the area's significant contribution to the Industrial Revolution.

Sites like Botallack Mine (featured in the TV series Poldark), Geevor Tin Mine Museum, and Heartlands in Pool offer insights into this aspect of Cornish heritage.

Cornish Cuisine

Cornwall's food scene has evolved far beyond the traditional pasty (though these remain delicious!) to embrace its abundant seafood and local produce:

Seafood

From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble harbor-side cafés, Cornwall excels in seafood cuisine. Look for:

  • The day's catch served in restaurants like The Fish House in Newquay or Outlaw's Fish Kitchen in Port Isaac
  • Traditional fish and chips from waterfront shops like The Harbour in Porthleven
  • Shellfish including Fal oysters, mussels, and Cornish lobster

Local Specialties

Beyond seafood, Cornwall offers distinctive local foods:

  • Cornish pasties, traditionally filled with beef, potato, onion, and swede (rutabaga)
  • Cornish cream tea – scones served with clotted cream and jam (in Cornwall, unlike Devon, the jam goes on first!)
  • Saffron cake and Hevva cake (a traditional fisherman's cake)
  • Cornish cheeses including Yarg (wrapped in nettle leaves)

Drinks

Cornwall's drink production has flourished in recent years:

  • Cornish vineyards producing award-winning wines, including Camel Valley and Trevibban Mill
  • Craft breweries such as Sharp's (makers of Doom Bar), Verdant, and Harbour Brewing
  • Artisan gin distilleries including Tarquin's and Curio
  • Traditional cider makers using local apple varieties

Practical Tips for Visiting Cornwall

When to Visit

Cornwall has distinct seasonal characteristics:

  • Summer (June-August): Peak season with the warmest weather and longest days, but also the busiest period with higher prices and crowded attractions.
  • Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October): Ideal times to visit, with moderate temperatures, fewer crowds, and accommodation availability. Many consider September the perfect month, with warm sea temperatures and quieter beaches.
  • Winter (November-March): Quiet and atmospheric, with wild coastal storms, empty beaches, and cozy pubs with roaring fires. Many attractions have limited opening hours, but accommodation prices are at their lowest.

Getting Around

For exploring Cornwall's coastal communities:

  • A car offers the most flexibility for reaching remote villages, but be prepared for narrow lanes and limited parking in popular destinations.
  • Public transport can work well for major towns, with regular bus services and branch line trains serving coastal communities like St. Ives and Falmouth.
  • Passenger ferries connect many harbor towns and offer scenic alternative routes.
  • The South West Coast Path connects all coastal settlements, offering wonderful walking opportunities between villages.

Accommodation

Cornwall offers diverse accommodation options, but advance booking is essential during peak periods:

  • Converted fishermen's cottages in harbor towns for an authentic experience
  • Boutique hotels like The Scarlet in Mawgan Porth or The Idle Rocks in St. Mawes for luxury coastal stays
  • Traditional B&Bs offering personal service and local knowledge
  • Self-catering options from apartments to substantial properties for families or groups
  • Glamping and camping for closer connection to Cornwall's natural beauty

Planning Your Cornish Coastal Adventure

At Horizon Travel, we specialize in creating tailored Cornwall itineraries that balance famous destinations with hidden gems, helping you experience the authentic character of this unique region. Whether you're interested in a focused exploration of artistic St. Ives, a foodie tour of Padstow and Port Isaac, or a comprehensive journey along the county's entire coastline, we can craft a personalized experience that matches your interests and pace.

Cornwall's coastal towns offer an irresistible combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. Despite its popularity, the peninsula still harbors quiet coves and authentic fishing villages where time seems to move at a gentler pace. Whether you're seeking artistic inspiration, culinary delights, maritime heritage, or simply the restorative power of where land meets sea, Cornwall's coastal communities provide a perfect setting for memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact us to start planning your perfect Cornish coastal journey, and discover why this special corner of England captures the hearts of visitors from around the world.