Summer is one of the best times to experience everything Cornwall has to offer. From golden beaches and dramatic coastal walks to delicious local food and unforgettable family days out, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your holiday itinerary.
Whether you’re visiting for a long-awaited family getaway, a romantic escape or a week by the sea with friends, this Cornwall summer bucket list is packed with ideas to help you make the most of your stay.
1. Spend a Day at One of Cornwall’s Beautiful Beaches
No Cornwall holiday is complete without a day at the beach. Whether you love long sandy stretches perfect for sandcastle building or secluded coves with crystal-clear water, there are plenty of places to relax, swim and soak up the sunshine. Pack a picnic, bring a good book and enjoy a slower pace of life by the coast.
Discover the best beaches in Cornwall
2. Learn to Surf
Cornwall is considered the surfing capital of the UK, making it the perfect place to try something new. While surfers will try to catch waves at any of the beaches in Cornwall, the North coast provides some of the best surf by far, with Fistral Beach regularly acting as the location for surfing competitions.
If you’re not sure how to surf yet, then there are also plenty of surf schools to be found along the coast, where you can pick up some tips and tricks, as well as being able to rent a wetsuit and board if you’re only at the beach for the day!
3. Explore the Coast on Foot
The South West Coast Path offers some of the most spectacular walking routes in Britain. Wander along clifftops, discover hidden beaches and enjoy panoramic sea views as you explore at your own pace. Even a short coastal stroll is enough to appreciate Cornwall’s breathtaking scenery.
Dog Friendly Coast Path Walks
4. Go Rock Pooling
Low tide reveals a fascinating underwater world waiting to be explored. Armed with a bucket and net, children and adults alike can spend hours searching for crabs, tiny fish, sea anemones and colourful shells hidden amongst the rocks.
Rock Pooling Spots in Cornwall
5. Discover a Hidden Cove
Some of Cornwall’s greatest treasures are its tucked-away beaches and secluded coves. Take the scenic route, follow a winding coastal path and reward yourself with peaceful spots that feel a world away from the crowds.
Secret Beaches in Cornwall
6. Try Paddleboarding or Kayaking
If you’re looking to get out on the water, paddleboarding and kayaking are fantastic ways to experience Cornwall from a different perspective. Glide across sheltered bays, peaceful estuaries and calm rivers while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
Where to Canoe & Kayak in Cornwall
7. Watch a Spectacular Sunset
There’s something magical about watching the sun disappear below the horizon after a warm summer’s day. Grab a blanket, your favourite takeaway or an ice cream and settle in for one of nature’s best displays.
Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Cornwall
8. Enjoy Fish and Chips by the Sea
Fresh seafood is part of any Cornwall holiday, and nothing beats eating traditional fish and chips overlooking the harbour or beach. Sometimes the simplest meals create the best holiday memories.
Best Fish & Chips in Cornwall
9. Visit a National Trust Property
Cornwall is home to some of the UK’s most spectacular National Trust places, from grand historic houses and sub-tropical gardens to dramatic stretches of coastline. Wander through beautifully preserved estates, discover fascinating local history and enjoy peaceful walks surrounded by some of Cornwall’s most picturesque landscapes.
National Trust Properties in Cornwall
10. Visit a Wildlife Sanctuary
Get closer to Cornwall’s incredible wildlife with a visit to one of the county’s animal sanctuaries. Meet rescued seals, birds of prey, otters and other native species while learning about the conservation work taking place to protect Cornwall’s unique marine and coastal environments. It’s a rewarding day out for visitors of all ages and a great way to support important local charities.
Animal Sanctuaries in Cornwall
11. Wander Around a Picturesque Harbour
Cornwall’s charming harbours are full of colourful fishing boats, independent shops, cafés and galleries. Spend an afternoon browsing boutiques, enjoying fresh seafood or simply watching the boats come and go.
Popular harbours such as St Ives, Padstow, Mousehole, Charlestown, Fowey and Mevagissey each have their own unique character, making them wonderful places to spend a leisurely afternoon soaking up Cornwall’s coastal atmosphere.
12. Visit a Historic Castle or Heritage Site
With centuries of history to discover, Cornwall is home to impressive castles, ancient monuments and fascinating heritage attractions that offer a glimpse into the county’s rich past.
Guide to Cornish Castles
13. Explore Beautiful Gardens
Summer is the perfect season to visit Cornwall’s spectacular gardens. Vibrant flowers, exotic planting and peaceful woodland walks provide a wonderful escape on warmer days.
Explore Gardens in Cornwall
14. Browse Independent Shops and Galleries
Cornwall has a thriving community of artists, makers and craftspeople. From handmade ceramics and jewellery to local artwork and unique gifts, independent shops are perfect for finding something special to take home.
Shopping in Cornwall
15. Spot Wildlife
Keep your eyes open for seals basking on the rocks, dolphins playing offshore or seabirds soaring above the cliffs. Wildlife spotting is one of the joys of spending time on the Cornish coast.
Seal Watching Spots in Cornwall
16. Take a Boat Trip
Seeing Cornwall from the water offers a completely different perspective. Whether it’s a gentle harbour cruise, wildlife safari or scenic coastal tour, it’s an unforgettable way to spend a summer afternoon.
Boat Trips from Falmouth
17. Cycle Through Cornwall’s Countryside
Cornwall offers a variety of cycling routes suitable for families, casual riders and experienced cyclists alike. Quiet country lanes, traffic-free trails and scenic woodland paths make exploring on two wheels both enjoyable and rewarding.
Explore the Bissoe Cycle Trail
18. Take a Trip to St Michael’s Mount
As one of the most famous landmarks in the county, St Michael’s Mount is a must-visit if you are in the area. Rewarding those who make the journey to the island with picture-perfect panoramic views of the area, it is certainly well worth a visit.
With the gardens that surround the spectacular castle coming to life in the spring and summer, this is the perfect time of year to explore all the mount has to offer!
19. Experience Outdoor Theatre
Watching a performance at the Minack Theatre is one of Cornwall’s most unforgettable experiences. Nestled into the cliff tops above Porthcurno beach, the Minack is a stage like no other, acting as an open-air theatre with absolutely breathtaking views out to the Atlantic Ocean. This remarkable open-air theatre provides a truly unique setting for plays, musicals and live performances throughout the summer.
Take a seat on the staggered steps carved into the granite cliffs and watch on in awe as the entertainment commences in this wonderfully unique location. Performances run from May to September, making this the ideal way to spend a summer night!
20. Discover Cornwall’s Art Galleries
Cornwall has long inspired artists with its dramatic coastlines, changing light and creative communities. Spend an afternoon exploring one of the county’s many art galleries, where you’ll find everything from contemporary exhibitions and traditional seascapes to ceramics, sculpture and handcrafted pieces by talented local makers.
Best Art Galleries in Cornwall
21. Visit Local Farm Shops and Markets
From homemade fudge to fresh seafood, local cheeses, cider and craft beer, Cornwall is full of incredible flavours. Visiting farm shops, food markets and independent producers is a great way to discover local favourites.
Pick up freshly baked bread, seasonal fruit and vegetables, homemade cakes, artisan cheeses and locally made treats. It’s the perfect excuse to create your own Cornish feast back at your self-catering holiday cottage in Truro.
22. Soar Across the Longest Zip Wire
If you’re looking to add a little adventure to your Cornwall holiday, take on the longest and fastest zip wire in England at the Eden Project. Flying high above the famous biomes at speeds of up to 60mph, it’s an exhilarating experience that rewards brave visitors with incredible aerial views of one of Cornwall’s most iconic attractions.
23. Reach Land’s End
Another of the region’s most popular destinations, Land’s End marks the most south-westerly point in the UK at the tip of the Cornish Peninsula. This part of the county has been visited for hundreds of years, and although our understanding of the world has improved, its unending views are still well worth a visit!
24. Eat a Traditional Cornish Pasty
No trip to Cornwall is complete without enjoying a proper Cornish pasty. Freshly baked with its distinctive crimped edge and hearty filling, this local favourite has been fuelling Cornish adventures for generations. Whether enjoyed warm from a traditional bakery or packed for a picnic on the beach, it’s an essential part of the Cornwall holiday experience.
History of the Cornish Pasty
25. Hike Bodmin Moor
Cornwall is renowned for its stunning coastlines, but its inland regions deserve some recognition, too! Covering over 200 square kilometres, Bodmin Moor is a prime example of the region’s rugged landscape away from the coast.
Designated an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, Bodmin Moor is a sweeping landscape famous for its wild ponies and granite formations, including Cornwall’s highest point. If you enjoy long walks, this is a place you should consider visiting!
Whether your perfect holiday involves adventure, relaxation, great food or quality family time, Cornwall offers something for everyone. From beach days and coastal walks to watersports and memorable meals outdoors, every day brings another opportunity to create lasting memories.
After a day exploring everything Cornwall has to offer, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort of your holiday cottage to unwind, recharge and start planning tomorrow’s adventure.