Botanical gardens, biomes and beach cleans

Cobbled streets, sandy beaches and picture-perfect harbours – it’s no surprise that South Cornwall is an up and coming holiday destination. Aside from its natural beauty, the calmer waters and sheltered coves lend themselves well to wild watersports weekends, while the world-famous Eden Project and vibrant social hub of Looe promise something special.

We’ve hand-picked a few of our favourite seasonal events so you can get a taste for Cornwall’s southern coast, whether you’re considering a family break in the school holidays or an escape with friends in the quieter months. For a touch of extra inspiration, we’ve also featured our three magical South Cornwall beach houses.

Beach days with a twist

No matter where you’re based, a holiday to Cornwall wouldn’t be complete without getting acquainted with the nearby beaches. Celebrating a quieter current, take to the south’s waters by kayak, stand up paddleboard or sea scooter for voyages along Polkerris, Lantic Bay or Pentewan Sands’ coastline. If you manage to tear yourself away from the water, a local beach clean is a great way to give a little something back.

Known and loved for its shingles, reef and rock pools at low tide, Hannafore Beach in West Looe is a haven for young adventurers. Explore hidden worlds with one of the ever popular Rockpool Rambles, scheduled for the February half term and Easter holidays.

Dates to remember:

February 23 and April 9 – Rockpool Ramble on Hannafore Beach

March 28 – Millendreath beach clean

February – December – Hemmick monthly beach clean near Gorran Haven

April – September – Pettifox sea charters from Fowey Harbour

Family-friendly fun

Although the south coast is renowned for embracing a calmer way of life, action-packed day trips and family-friendly activities, festivals and events are only ever a few moments away.

Spectate from the shoreline as hundreds of boats take to the water during Looe’s annual raft race in June, join the locals for the carnival parade in July or head to Looe’s three-day arts and music festival in September. As the weather takes a turn, wrap up with a winter warmer in hand and head to Polperro for their much loved November firework display.

Dates to remember:

July 27 – August 1 – Looe carnival week

September 25 – 27 – Looe Live!

October 16 – 18 – Mevagissey Shanty Festival

November 7 – Polperro fireworks

December – Fowey Christmas market (details TBC)

Get lost in botanical gardens

Peaceful roams around The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a must, no matter the time of year. Located near Gorran Haven and Mevagissey, Heligan is a paradise for nature-lovers and garden-romantics, with 200 acres of botanical gardens, plants and wildlife waiting to capture the hearts of all who visit.

Heligan comes alive during the school holidays, with so many family-friendly experiences to catch your eye. Idyllic woodland wanders bring native wildlife discoveries, while spring sees a proud surge in daffodil buds and winter promotes festive cheer with the Christmas fair. For out of season escapes with friends, a historical garden tour is highly recommended.

Dates to remember:

February 15 – Love Nature - sensory trails, wildlife films and hands-on workshops

May 9, August 29 and October 3 - Tim’s Anniversay Tours

December – Heligan by Night (details TBC)

Explore Eden’s treasures

Famed for its rainforest and Mediterranean biomes, awe-inspiring exhibitions and England’s longest zip wire, Eden also have a whole host of unique experiences on the horizon, sure to add some extra sparkle to your escape. The Eden Sessions thrive in the summer months, this year welcoming Lionel Richie, The Script and Diana Ross, while Hangloose Adventure satisfy thrill-seekers with a giant swing, cliff jump and climbing tower.

Eco-friendly and environmentally conscious in every way, Eden’s conservation and community workshops offer something different for the little ones.

Dates to remember:

February-May – Radical Botany exhibition

March 28 – April 19 – Easter at Eden

May 17 – Eden Classic sportive cycling event

June 17, July 15 and July 21 – Eden Sessions

November – December – Festival of Christmas (details TBC)

An enchanting south coast home

Each a magical base for exploring South Cornwall, our beach house in Gorran Haven promises stunning sea views and stylish interiors. With the waves directly on your doorstep, let the ocean air work wonders on your wellbeing at Beachcombers. A short drive away from Mevagissey and Poldark’s Charlestown, the charming harbours and classic fishing boats will make a sunset seafood dinner seem far too tempting.