Wild, windswept, and magical, Cornwall is where the land ends and the adventure begins. With its turquoise waters, epic cliffs, secret coves, and colourful harbour towns, this sun soaked stretch of southwest England feels like another world. Whether you are chasing waves, chasing legends, or just chasing the perfect view, Cornwall delivers the kind of moments that stick with you long after the sand is out of your shoes.
What makes Cornwall truly special is its sheer variety. One day you are surfing world class waves at Fistral Beach, the next you are exploring ancient castles, spotting seals at Mutton Cove, or sailing alongside dolphins on a sea safari. From zip lining above the Eden Project’s rainforest canopy to hiking the South West Coast Path or devouring a just baked Cornish pasty by the sea, there is no shortage of “wow” moments here.
In this guide, we will dive into the best things to do and places to visit in Cornwall, whether you are a thrill seeker, a nature lover, a history buff, or simply here to soak up the views. So grab your walking boots, your appetite, and a healthy dose of curiosity, because Cornwall is calling, and adventure is waiting at every turn.
- Portchurno Beach
- Minac Theatre
- St. Michaels Mount
- Fistral Beach
- Tintagel Castle
- Kynance cove
- St Ives
- Lands End
- Eden Project
- Sea Safaris and Fishing
- Godrevy Point and Mutton Cove



- Portchurno Beach
Imagine golden sand beneath your feet, majestic granite cliffs soaring above, and sparkling turquoise waves kissing the shore while the vast Atlantic stretches endlessly toward the horizon. This is Portchurno Beach, one of the most scenic beaches in UK, a wild, windswept paradise that feels like your own private beach. Accessible only by foot, this off the beaten path gem dares you to leave the crowds behind and embrace pure coastal freedom.
Getting there is half the thrill. Wander down cliffside paths or hike the scenic South West Coast Path from Pendeen Lighthouse, and you will arrive at a cove so untouched it feels like time stopped. No cafes, no crowds, just the sound of crashing waves, salty sea breeze, and the occasional seal popping up to say hello.
Whether you are a hiker, photographer, wild swimmer, or daydreamer, Portchurno Beach delivers a slice of untamed Cornwall at its most breathtaking. Bring your spirit of adventure, pack a picnic, and dive into the wild. This is nature, raw and exhilarating, exactly the way Cornwall was meant to be experienced.
- Minack Theatre
Perched high above the turquoise waters of Porthcurno Bay, the Minack Theatre is one of the breathtaking and unique open air venues in the world. Hand carved into the granite rock by theatre lover Rowena Cade in the 1930s, this cliffside amphitheatre offers an unforgettable blend of drama, history, and natural beauty.
What makes the Minack truly magical is its setting. As you watch a play unfold under the open sky, the backdrop is not just a stage set, it is the vast Atlantic Ocean, with waves crashing below and seabirds wheeling overhead. From Shakespeare to musicals, every performance here feels elevated by the breathtaking scenery.
Even if you do not catch a show, the theatre is worth visiting for its spectacular views, subtropical gardens, and the incredible story of how it was built. Whether you are a theatre lover, a photographer, or simply someone chasing Cornwall’s most awe inspiring sights, the Minack Theatre is a must see experience.
- St. Michael’s Mount : A Legendary Escape by the Sea
Rising from the sea like something out of a fairytale, St. Michael’s Mount is one of Cornwall’s most captivating treasures. This tidal island just off the coast of Marazion is magical from the moment it comes into view. One moment it is cut off by water; the next, like magic, a cobbled causeway emerges, guiding you across the waves to a castle perched high on the granite cliffs.
Every step toward the Mount builds excitement. At the top, the medieval castle greets you with sweeping, jaw dropping views and layers of rich, dramatic history, battles fought, monks once in prayer, and myths of giants woven into the stone. Inside, the worn floors and twisting staircases whisper their own stories. I remember pausing in the silence of one room, just to soak it all in. Below, the subtropical gardens feel like a dream, with hidden paths, bright blooms, and peaceful corners you almost want to keep secret.
It is no wonder filmmakers have fallen in love with its cinematic beauty. Most notably, St. Michael’s Mount starred as “High Tide” in House of the Dragon, the Game of Thrones prequel, portraying the ancestral seat of House Velaryon. Yet beyond the legends and the screen, what I love most about St. Michael’s Mount is its spirit. It is not just a historic site, it is a living island with a vibrant community, a small village, and a sense of wonder that lingers long after you leave.
- Fistral Beach : Where the Coast Comes Alive
Located in Newquay on Cornwall’s north coast, Fistral Beach is one of the UK’s most famous and beloved beaches. There is something electric about arriving at Fistral Beach. Maybe it is the crash of the waves, the salty breeze, or the sight of surfers carving through the Atlantic swell, but from the moment you step onto the sand, you feel the energy.
It is known as the home of British surfing, and once you see the waves, you will understand why. I remember watching surfers glide effortlessly through the water, the sun low in the sky, and thinking there is no better place to be. Even if you have never touched a surfboard, it is worth trying a lesson just for the thrill and the laughs. If not, simply sitting on the beach, toes in the sand, and taking it all in is just as satisfying.
Beyond the waves, Fistral is a perfect spot for beach days, coastal walks, and stunning sunsets. There is a great mix of beachside cafes, bars, and shops just steps from the sand, giving it a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Whether you are there to ride the tide, explore the cliffs, or just relax on the sand with fish and chips in hand, Fistral Beach delivers a true Cornish coastal experience.
- Tintagel Castle: Step Into the Legend
Set high on the rugged cliffs of Cornwall’s north coast, Tintagel Castle is a place where history and legend collide in the most breathtaking way. Surrounded by crashing waves and dramatic sea views, the ruins of this medieval stronghold are steeped in mystery, most famously as the legendary birthplace of King Arthur.
Walking across the modern footbridge that connects the mainland to the island, you can not help but feel a sense of awe. The wind, the sea spray, the sheer drop below, it all sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. As you explore the weathered ruins, climb the stone steps, and stand where kings and knights may have once stood, the stories seem to come alive around you. Don’t miss the stunning bronze sculpture of King Arthur overlooking the Atlantic, it is a modern tribute to the myth, and a powerful moment of reflection.
Beyond the legend, Tintagel is a spectacular place in its own right. The views are absolutely jaw dropping, especially at sunset, and the nearby village is full of cosy cafes, local shops, and welcoming pubs. Whether you are drawn by the Arthurian tales, the wild beauty of the Cornish coast, or simply a desire to stand somewhere steeped in history, Tintagel Castle promises a visit full of drama, wonder, and inspiration.
- Kynance cove: Cornwall’s Coastal Gem
Tucked away on the rugged Lizard Peninsula, Kynance Cove is one of the most breathtaking spots in all of Cornwall. With its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and white sand beaches, it looks more like a scene from the Mediterranean than the southwest of England. The first time you glimpse it from the cliff path above, it truly takes your breath away.
At low tide, the cove reveals a maze of sea caves, rock stacks, and little coves to explore, perfect for adventurers and families. The contrast of dark serpentine rock against the vivid blue sea is unlike anywhere else and on a sunny day, the colours are unreal. Whether you are paddling in the shallows, enjoying a swim, or just relaxing on the sand, it is a place that invites you to slow down and soak in the beauty.
The coastal walk to Kynance is just as rewarding as the cove itself, with panoramic views across the cliffs and sea. When you need a break, the charming beach cafe tucked into the hillside serves up local treats with a view you will never forget. Kynance Cove is not just a beach, it is an experience. Wild, remote, and impossibly picturesque, it is the kind of spot you will want to return to again and again.
- St Ives : Cornwall’s Coastal Jewel
St Ives is a town that captures hearts the moment you arrive. Located on the north coast of Cornwall, it is famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, winding cobbled streets, and a light so pure it has inspired generations of artists. Whether you are visiting for a relaxing seaside escape or a dose of culture, St Ives offers a little bit of magic for everyone.
The town has a laid back charm, with whitewashed cottages, working fishing boats, and cafes overlooking the harbour. Wander through the narrow streets and you will find independent shops, art galleries, and the world renowned Tate St Ives, perched dramatically above Porthmeor Beach. Art lovers will also enjoy the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, offering a glimpse into the life of one of Britain’s most celebrated artists.
St Ives is more than art and scenery, it is about moments. Watching the sun set over the Atlantic, enjoying fish and chips on the harbour wall, taking a dip in crystal clear water or simply soaking in the atmosphere with a coffee as gulls glide overhead. Whether you are here for a day or a week, St Ives leaves a lasting impression.

- Land’s End
Standing at Land’s End, you are quite literally at the edge of England, the most westerly point of mainland Britain. With dramatic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean, crashing waves, and vast skies stretching in every direction, this place feels wild, powerful, and awe inspiring. It is not just a geographical landmark, it is a feeling of standing at the end of something grand and the beginning of something even greater.
Visitors come to Land’s End for its sweeping coastal views, scenic cliff top walks, and that iconic signpost marking distances to far off places like New York and John o’ Groats. But there is more to it than just the view. Watch seabirds soar along the cliffs, spot seals in the water below, or catch a golden sunset as the last light fades into the sea, it is nature at its most raw and beautiful.
Whether you are a photographer, a hiker, a dreamer, or simply someone who wants to say they have stood at the end of the land, this spot delivers. With a mix of natural wonder, heritage, and breathtaking scenery, Land’s End is a bucket list experience that leaves you feeling small in the best possible way.
- The Eden Project: A World of Wonder Under Glass
Tucked into a former clay pit in the heart of Cornwall, the Eden Project is one of the most unique and inspiring places you can visit in the UK. From the moment you see the futuristic biomes rising from the earth, like something out of a sci-fi film, you know you are about to experience something extraordinary. Part botanical garden, part ecological wonder, and part immersive adventure, Eden is where nature, science, and sustainability come together in the most beautiful way.
Step inside the Rainforest Biome, the world’s largest indoor rainforest, and you are instantly transported to a steamy jungle alive with waterfalls, towering trees, and the sounds of tropical wildlife. The Mediterranean Biome offers a different kind of escape, filled with olive trees, fragrant herbs, and sun soaked beauty that feels like a stroll through Southern Europe. Each space is not just stunning, but also packed with stories about the planet and how we can better care for it.
What I love most about Eden Project is how it blends education with inspiration. You do not just learn about the natural world, you feel part of it. There are art installations, interactive exhibits, seasonal events, and even a zip wire if you are feeling adventurous. Whether you are a nature lover, a family with curious kids, or someone who just wants a fresh perspective on the world, the Eden Project is a place that leaves a lasting impression and a spark of hope.
- Sea Safaris and Fishing in Cornwall: Dive into Adventure
Cornwall’s wild coastline and rich marine life make it the perfect playground for sea safaris and fishing adventures. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, setting out on the water here offers a chance to connect with the wild Atlantic in a way few places can match. Imagine cruising along dramatic cliffs, spotting seals basking on rocks, watching seabirds dive, and maybe even catching a glimpse of dolphins or porpoises swimming alongside your boat.
Fishing here is about more than just the catch, it is the thrill of reeling in bass, pollock, or mackerel while surrounded by stunning sea views. Local operators like Cornwall Fishing Adventures and Porthleven Fishing Charters provide all the gear and expert guidance, making it fun and accessible for all skill levels. Plus, nothing beats tasting your fresh catch afterward at a seaside pub or onboard.
For a fantastic sea safari experience, companies like Cornish Seal Sanctuary Boat Tours and Falmouth Sea Safaris offer guided trips that combine wildlife spotting with stunning coastal scenery. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a fresh perspective on Cornwall’s natural beauty, sea safaris and fishing trips are experiences you will not forget.
- Godrevy Point & Mutton Cove: A Wild Corner of Cornwall
If you are craving a mix of dramatic coastline, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking sea views, Godrevy Point and Mutton Cove are hidden gems worth discovering. Perched on Cornwall’s north coast near St Ives Bay, this rugged headland is known for its panoramic ocean views, windswept cliffs, and the striking Godrevy Lighthouse, said to have inspired Virginia Woolf’s To the Lighthouse. It is a place that feels raw and untouched, where the land meets the sea in the most spectacular way.
A short walk along the cliff path leads you to Mutton Cove, a natural amphitheatre carved into the coastline and a favourite haul out spot for a large colony of grey seals. Seeing dozens of them lounging on the beach below or bobbing in the surf is an unforgettable sight, especially in autumn and winter when numbers peak. Bring binoculars for the best view, and keep a respectful distance from the edge to avoid disturbing the animals.
Whether you are a keen hiker, wildlife lover, or just looking for a peaceful place to breathe in the sea air, this part of the Cornish coast delivers. The South West Coast Path winds through the area, offering stunning walks and photo opportunities at every turn.
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