Sunny UK county where the beaches are better than abroad – with crystal-clear water, white sand and perfect sunset pubs

CORNWALL is known for its breathtakingly beautiful beaches – and for good reason.

With over 300 beaches to choose from, there’s a stretch of sand to suit everyone, from vast, wide open beaches to hidden coves accessible only at low tide.

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As a rule of thumb, Cornwall’s north coast is wild and rugged, and generally best for surfing, where beaches are backed by windswept cliffs or sand dunes and exposed to the Atlantic swell.

By comparison, the south coast of Cornwall tends to be more sheltered, boasting some of the most picturesque fishing harbours, green landscapes and stunning estuaries.

You’ll also find mainland England’s most southerly and westerly points (Lizard Point and Land’s End), with their legendary shipwrecks. 

But which beach should you visit first on your £9.50 Holiday? Here’s our handy guide - with tips from Cornwall experts, local holiday park and Sun readers to help you whittle the choice down… 

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Best for scenery 

Whichever beach you pick in Cornwall, the vistas will blow you away.

Perhaps the most stunning visually is Kynance Cove, with its white sands and mesmerising rock stacks.

Its islands and caves are only accessible at low tide (tip: check tide times before you visit) and it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Carol Harris, 72, from Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, stayed at Parkdean Resorts Lizard Point on a 9.50 Holiday and she said: “Kynance Cove is less than a 15-minute drive away, and it’s just stunning – the scenery is incredible.

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"It also has a National Trust car park so is free for members to park, and staff are helpful at pointing out the easier and harder routes to walk as you arrive.”

Best for surfing 

Cornwall expert and Sun travel writer Ellie Ross recommends Newquay for surfing. She said “The town is regarded as the UK’s surf capital, and you’ve got 12 beaches to choose from, so there are lots of options for all abilities.

"For instance, beginners can catch small waves in the sheltered Towan Beach (beside the harbour) while intermediate and advanced surfers can find consistent swell at Fistral Beach.

"There are loads of surf schools to choose from – I’d recommend trying or .”

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Best beaches to escape the crowds

Anne Walton, 71, from Newport, stayed at Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay.

She said: “Cornwall’s beaches are second to none – they’re one of the reasons that I prefer to go to Cornwall rather than abroad.

"The beaches around St Ives and Carbis Bay have the best sand – it’s so soft.

"Then I like the waves at Fistral Beach. But it can get busy so I prefer the neighbouring Little Fistral Beach.

"It’s much smaller and only accessible at low tide, but not as many people know about it so you can get the beach to yourself. It’s a more secret beach." 

“Another tip is knowing where to park in Newquay. We avoid the main Fistral Beach car park, and instead park at , which not as many people know about and only costs around £1.50 per hour.

"From here, you can walk to and everything else on Fistral Beach in five minutes.

You’re also right next to the steps that lead down to the lesser-known Little Fistral Beach.”

The Sun's Head Of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire said: "I stay in St Mawes every summer and one of my favourite beach days is when we take the tiny 12-seater across to Place Landing, on St Anthony Head.

"From there, a lovely 25-minute walk through the countryside, along car-less lanes takes you out to and Little Molunan beach, beautiful sheltered cove with crystal clear waters that are never busy.

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Best beach with a pub

For a beach with beer, Ellie Ross recommends Perranporth Beach - a vast sandy beach that’s fantastic for everything from surfing and sea swimming to dog walking (tip: dogs must be on leads in July and August).

She said: "beach bar sits right on the sand and it's the perfect place for a pint as the sun sets.

"As well as serving great food with a sea view, the pub is also a local favourite and hosts live music events all year round."  

Best for families

Ellie recommends Watergate Bay, on the edge of Newquay, for families, saying: "There’s a ramp all the way down to the sand – perfect for prams – and at low tide it’s rockpooling heaven for children.

"Crantock, just a ten-minute drive from Newquay is also a good choice for families – it’s backed by sand dunes, with a river for shallow paddling.

"Crantock also has a coffee truck, , right on the beach selling everything from local pastries to handmade ice creams.”

(Tip: the coffee truck is weather dependent so check their Instagram page; Crantock National Trust car park gets busy in summer, so arrive early to avoid long queues!)

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Best for dogs

Not all of Cornwall’s beaches allow dogs all year round – many have a summer ban, so check ahead if you’re travelling with a four-legged friend.

Watergate Bay, Fistral Beach and Crantock Beach are among the beaches with no summer restrictions, so are great choices for canine lovers.