Best Beach Hotels in Cornwall

If your idea of the perfect holiday involves sand and sea views - and the possibility of an exceptional meal and some great surfing, sailing or walking — then Cornwall is an obvious choice. The difficult choice comes when choosing the best beach hotels in Cornwall, but never fear, our Gurus have taken care of that for you! Whether you're after art in St Ives, food in Padstow, summer fun in Newquay, stunning coastlines around Bude or remote charm in Penzance, there’s a recommendation on our Guru’s list of the best beach hotels in Cornwall for you. And they've included some Cornwall's best beach hotels for families, some of Cornwall's most romantic beach hotels and some of the best value beach hotels in Cornwall too.

For the Album

The Scarlet is a creatively designed, eco-friendly, adults-only resort hotel overlooking Mawgan Porth Beach. The architecture aims to add to the spectacular scenery – with flat roofs covered in sea thrift resembling cliff tops, and infinity pools that blend into rockpools. And the views are lauded throughout the hotel – especially in the fantastic Ayurvedic spa, the chic cocktail lounge and the stylish hotel restaurant. There are 37 rooms and suites, all with floor-to-ceiling windows, and our favourites with private, sea-view balconies too. The décor is simple and contemporary, with design pieces and art by local artists to add interest.

For a Special Occasion

The Tolcarne Beach Colonial Rooms are a collection of nine beach cabins and suites, quirkily, yet luxuriously, decorated, and arranged right on the waterfront of a private stretch of beach along from Newquay. This is a great pick for a special occasion, you’ll never forget the ceilings with their bamboo inlay, the bamboo and raffia chairs, the tropical murals, and the private stretch of sandy beach. The seafood restaurant is pretty memorable too. Adults only.

For the Views

Lewinnick Lodge is a restaurant with rooms sitting on top of a cliff around a rocky cove from Fistral Beach, which is just one beach along from Newquay. So while it’s not directly on the beach, there’s nothing between you and the ocean when you stay in one of these ten simple, yet stylish rooms and suites. Thankfully all the windows are huge, including those in the fantastic Cornish restaurant, but best of all the restaurant’s terrace juts out over the ocean, with just glass walls as a barrier.

For a Beach Break

The Nare is a country house hotel right on the beach, with lush gardens that end where the sand begins. The 36 rooms and suites are spacious and comfortable, and the atmosphere is of a stylish, very comfortable home from home – think antiques, Persian rugs, printed wallpapers and huge windows overlooking the ocean. The Nare has country house hotel facilities, like a spa, tennis courts, croquet pitch, indoor and outdoor pools and two restaurants. Plus seaside extras, like a hotel yacht and motor boat fleet, and a hot tub overlooking the ocean. Children and dogs are welcome too!

For a Bucket and Spade Holiday

The Bedruthan Hotel is a crowd-pleaser of a seaside hotel, with 101 contemporary rooms and suites, all with floor-to-ceiling windows — the best with sea views. In the small space between the hotel and the ocean are two pools, and an expanse of lush grass and garden, and you’re minutes' stroll from Mawgan Porth Beach. There’s also an indoor pool and spa, and a choice of two restaurants.

For Romantics

The Primrose Valley Hotel has been carefully converted from an Edwardian home, and sits just above the beach in St Ives, offering great views of the lively bay. There are just nine rooms, all stylishly mid-century minimal, and a comfortable lounge and bar. There’s no restaurant, but the bar turns cafe and serves breakfast, and you’re surrounded by options for your other meals. Romantically simple.
Trevose Harbour House is a stunning, nautical inspired B&B in arty St. Ives, with wonderful views of the Cornish coastline from the windows of almost all of its six, individually designed rooms and suites. There’s a snug and honesty bar downstairs, and the all-organic breakfasts are legendary. Lovers of mid century design will approve, along with lovers of Klein blue.
The Fistral Beach Hotel in Newquay is a large, clifftop, adult-only hotel, with a full service spa, and sleek, minimal décor that makes way for the fantastic views to shine. The 71 rooms and suites vary in size and facilities, from simple singles, to fancy suites complete with hot tubs on private sea-view terraces. The Cornish fine dining restaurant is romantic and grown up too.

For Foodies

The Idle Rocks is a 20 room boutique hotel right on the harbour wall in St. Mawes — a location difficult to top for sea views. The terrace gets best access to those vistas, then the popular ground floor restaurant, with its award winning Asian-twist-on-Cornish-classics-menu, and then the ocean view rooms on the first floor — some of which have French windows onto private, sea-view balconies. The decor feels fresh and on-trend, there’s plenty of people watching to enjoy, and it’s all just stylishly simple.

For Watersports

The Carbis Bay Hotel is a luxurious hotel with idyllic bay views and fantastic facilities onsite and locally. Firstly, the St. Ives location is great for all kinds of watersports, but also for arty jaunts, walking and golf, and the hotel adds to that with a great spa, a gym, a games room, plenty of watersports equipment, a choice of six onsite dining options, a hot tub on the beach you can book by the hour, a host of family-friendly activities, and a fantastic range of room shapes and sizes that allow for something for everyone.

For Families

Incredibly positioned on a clifftop overlooking the ocean and The Lizard, the Polurrian on the Lizard is a family-friendly pick. The location might sounds dangerous, but there’s a safe walk to a private sandy beach, which you can’t see from the hotel, plus expansive gardens with good fences all around the property. There are 39 rooms, suites and villas, with additional family facilities, including a creche, indoor and outdoor play areas, a cinema, and a family-friendly restaurant — but there’s also a fine dining option, and a pool, spa and gym.
Once an Art Deco seaside institution, today the St Moritz, in Trebetherick, has expanded to become a super family-friendly, resort style hotel, with a collection of 48 rooms, suites, and self-catering apartments and villas. The gardens are big and tropical, with space for an outdoor pool and tennis courts, and inside there’s another pool, a gym and a friendly brasserie. This is a great spot for walkers, surfers and sailors.
The Rosevine is a charming, family run seaside hotel on a lush, grassy peninsula between Porthbean Beach and Portscatho Beach, with views of both and the ocean in between. Its 12 rooms, suites and self-catering apartments are spacious, tastefully decorated and comfortable, plus there’s a playroom and kids under 16 stay for free. The restaurant is friendly, known for its Modern British cuisine and kids’ menu – all served with a side order of incredible view. There’s also an indoor pool and games room.

For a Waterside Retreat

The Talland Bay Hotel is an idyllically sprawling country house hotel, set on two acres of sub-tropical gardens overlooking Talland Bay. Most of the 27 rooms and suites have water views, and decor varying from plush and romantic, to country chintz and New England nautical. The restaurant specialises in Cornish fare, and has two AA rosettes. There’s lots of walking trails, including a two minute stroll to the beach.
The Driftwood Hotel is an intimate choice, set in private grounds overlooking Gerrans Bay and Porthbean Beach, but with its own perfect crescent of sand at the bottom of its cliff. It has just 14 rooms and suites, all stylishly decorated with a nod to the nautical, offering the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. The restaurant is similarly balanced, relaxed, but excellent, with an impressive wine list. About halfway between the hotel and the beach there’s a private cabin – perfect for romantics, and close to that is a pavilion where they will serve a private lunch, or an aromatherapy massage.

For Port-town Fun

Pedn Olva is so close to the beach that at high tide, sometimes the ocean splashes high enough to sent salt spray into the pool, and onto the terrace. The harbour of St. Ives sits on one side of it, and Porthminster Beach on the other. The largely white décor in the 30 rooms and suites is reminiscent of the Mediterranean, like the hotel’s name, and the restaurant menu. The restaurant, with its ocean-side terrace is a popular pick for non-residents too. Balcony Rooms have the best views, and the family suites are spacious, with a range of bunks and beds to choose from.
The Lifeboat Inn, St Ives is small, but perfectly formed: seven boutique rooms right on the pretty waterfront, with nothing but the road between guests and the bright aquamarine ocean. Most of the rooms have water views, including both of the larger, self-catering apartments, and the family room, which has a double bed and bunks. The pub is the lively heart of the inn, offering superb seafood and pub classics in the fantastic waterside spot.

For Great Value

The Godolphin Arms is fantastically positioned just along the coast from Penzance, right on the beach and directly opposite St. Michael’s Mount. It has just 12 rooms and suites, all simple, light and well equipped, and decorated in the colours of the beach, plus a friendly bar and restaurant specialising in Cornish cuisine and seafood. The best of the family suites have balconies with sea views.
Treverbyn House is an elegant property with three B&B rooms, just a short stroll from Padstow Harbour, and some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches. The property has been under the same ownership for 20 years and a lot of care is taken over the decor — wood floors, fireplaces and antiques, and over the service. And there’s an excellent Full English.
The Beach at Bude is a simple, but stylish choice perfectly positioned so that it overlooks Bude’s surf beach and channel. Its 18 rooms and suites are light and airy, decorated in fresh pastels and contemporary shapes — our favourites have sea views. The restaurant is relaxed, with a cool bar and a trendy British menu.

Still not sure where to book?

You could consult our list of all the best places to stay in Cornwall
Or refine your search by location, and consider just the best places to stay in Penzance, Rock, Newquay, Falmouth or St. Ives
Or consider our Guru’s recommendations for the best hotels in Cornwall for families, the best Cornwall hotels with a sea view or Cornwall's most romantic hotels
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

20 Best Beach Hotels in Cornwall

Bedruthan Hotel

Newquay (Cornwall)

A family-friendly hotel with fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean. Interiors are contemporary throughout. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, wooden floors, and minimalist furniture. With two Cornish restaurants, three pools, a spa, and plenty of activities - this is a real crowd-pleaser.

Spa breaks - Pamper yourself at the top of the range luxury spa, using all natural products and treatments — heaven!
Families - With family orientated rooms, great dining options and the beach close by it's ideal for families
Eco break - A sustainable and environmentally minded hotel with an extensive responsible tourism pledge
Restaurant - The Wild Cafe and The Herring serve seasonal dishes using the best of local produce

from AU$293 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Driftwood Hotel

St Mawes (Cornwall)

Set in scenic private grounds, this chic and intimate hotel overlooks stunning Gerrans Bay. Light, marine inspired rooms are the perfect example of comfort meets luxury. Fabulous food at the restaurant makes dining a spoiling yet casual affair, matched by a fine wine list. A dream Cornish location.

Romantic Break - Perfect for a romantic retreat — think sunset strolls on the beach, candlelight dinners, and a private cabin with a terrace
Foodies - Chef Olly Pierrepoint creates stunning dishes in this highly regarded 3AA Rosette restaurant
Great walks - Grab a hotel picnic and head out through the private estate right down to the coast and explore the beautiful beaches
Fishing - Right on the coast, there are plenty of fishing boats to rent for the day with equippment and guides if necessary

from AU$429 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Scarlet, Cornwall

Newquay

Relaxing, purpose-designed eco-friendly hotel overlooking Mawgan Porth beach. Rooms are decorated with contemporary furniture & local art. Enjoy sea views from the cocktail lounge and the stylish hotel restaurant. Expect fantastic spa facilities for relaxation and great outdoor activities nearby.

Romantic Break - With a spoiling spa, luxurious rooms with sea views, and fine dining - this is the perfect setting for romance
Spa - An eco spa featuring a bromine-filtered indoor pool, outdoor natural reed pool, a wooden sauna, and pod treatment rooms
Restaurant - Seasonal dishes are served in the restaurant alongside a good selection of wines
Surfing - There are several surfing beaches nearby and plenty of surf schools too

from AU$381 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Beach at Bude

Bude

A stylish boutique bolthole overlooking a popular surf beach. light and airy rooms are contemporary and fresh with pastel hues, pale wooden furniture, and sea views. The laidback restaurant serves modern British cuisine and there's a vibey bar too. A hip coastal getaway.

Contemporary - Farrow & ball hues, an atmospheric bar that feels like a members club, and coastal chic style make this a great boutique choice
Active Holiday - Whether sea activities, cycling, or hiking is your thing - there is plenty to keep busy with here
Surfing - Situated right above Summerleaze Beach, this is a prime spot for surfers
Restaurant - The Beach Restaurant is headed up by highly acclaimed chef Jamie Colman who trained with Gordon Ramsay and Michael Caines

from AU$205 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

St Moritz

Cornwall

A stylish contemporary seaside hotel set between the beaches of Polzeath & Daymer. Flexible accommodation includes rooms, suites, self-catering apartments, & villas. With a Cowshed Spa (courtesy of Soho House), two pools, and a good restaurant this is a luxury break suitable for couples or families.

Country Escape - Spend days outdoors on long hikes or surfing before returning to a massage in the spa and a hearty dinner - rural perfection
Self catering to rent - There are 38 villas & 13 apartments (all luxury) for those who want to self cater yet have access to the hotel's facilities
Local exploring - With Padstow, Port-Isaac, and Rock all nearby there is plenty to do locally from surfing to fine dining
Spa - The property boasts the UK’s only Cowshed Spa outside Soho House

from AU$234 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Idle Rocks

Cornwall

A boutique seaside hotel well positioned right on the harbour wall in St Mawes. Rooms are designed with a fresh take on traditional design. Expect sea views, plush beds, and modern fabrics. The popular restaurant serves a well-executed British menu with an Asian twist. A chic coastal stay.

Foodies - The award-winning restaurant serves British menus with an Asian influence using the best of local and seasonal produce
Families - A spacious family suite, a private cinema, and a wide choice of activities make this perfect family holiday material
Surfing - Cornwall is renowned for its surf beaches and there are several schoold nearby that offer lessons
Kayaking - Explore the picturesque creeks and hidden beaches of the Roseland peninsula on a kayak

from AU$707 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Godolphin

Cornwall (Marazion)

Boutique hotel, bar & restaurants renowned for their laid back style & stunning beachfront location. Sitting in a pocket of paradise on Cornwall’s beautiful West Coast, the lovingly restored hotel is in a spectacular spot looking out over Mount's Bay & St Michael's Mount

Active Holiday - The perfect base for active guests with surfing, hiking, cycling, and watersports all possible nearby
Restaurant - A relaxed restaurant with wonderful views serves British cuisine and specialises in seafood
Sights nearby - Take a boat trip over to the iconic destination of St Michael’s Mount
Birdwatching - For birding enthusiats, the RSPB nature reserve is nearby

from AU$215 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Lewinnick Lodge

Newquay (Cornwall)

A boutique restaurant with rooms boasting fabulous sea views from its clifftop setting. Simple yet stylish, modern rooms decorated in light hues with luxe bathrooms. With the beach on your doorstep and a brasserie serving very good modern Cornish fare, this is a charming coastal hideaway.

Foodies - The restaurant is inspired by the surrounding land and sea and served contemporary Cornish cuisine
Romantic Break - Rooms boast spectacular sea views and enormous clawfoot tubs - a very romantic setting
Sights nearby - The Blue Reef Aquarium and Newquay Zoo are a short drive
Sailing - Newquay sailing club for all your nautical needs

from AU$351 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Talland Bay Hotel

Cornwall (Porthallow )

A country house hotel set in two acres of sub-tropical gardens close to the beach. Rooms have a New England beach house vibe with contemporary fabrics, sleigh beds, and plenty of light. With award-winning Cornish fine dining and spectacular coastal views, this is a luxurious rural hideaway.

Active Holiday - There are a wide range of activities nearby including surfing, cycling, hiking, golf, and fishing
Back to Nature - Views of the sea and the coastal path just 2 minute walk away keeps you in touch with nature
Great walks - Miles of coastal paths can be explored right from the Talland Bay Hotel doorstep
Sights nearby - The Eden Project is just a 40 minute drive from the hotel

from AU$527 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Treverbyn House

Cornwall (Cornwall)

Under the same ownership for over 20 years, Treverbyn House is a well oiled machine. With just three rooms, each individually decorated with exposed wood floors, antique furnishings, fireplaces and impressive views. A famous Full English is served. The property is a short walk from Padstow Harbour.

Beach Life - Close to Padstow Harbour, the rugged Cornish coast, and several beautiful stretched of sandy beach
Surfing - Cornwall has the best surf beaches in the country. Harlyn Surf School caters for beginners and improvers
Local markets - Padstow Harbour, a traditional fishing town, is worth a wander
Sailing - Daily boat trips run from Padstow to Rock

from AU$234 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Trevose Harbour House

St Ives (Cornwall)

As refreshing as the Cornish coastline you can see from your window this nautical inspired B&B is simply stunning. Six individually designed bedrooms ooze style with colour palettes to match the sky and surf of St Ives. The downstairs snug offers an honesty bar & breakfast is totally organic.

Eco break - Food is locally sourced and predominantly organic, waste is recycled and cleaning products are enviroment friendly
Beach Life - Decorated in a nautical style, enjoying views of and walking distance from some of Cornwall's finest beaches
Sights nearby - For art lovers the Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden are worth a visit
Sailing - Take a boat trip to Seal Island where you can spot seals, dolphins and much more

from AU$478 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Polurrian on The Lizard

Cornwall (Cornwall)

A family-friendly hotel in an incredible setting with a fabulous sandy beach a stone's throw away. Breathtaking sea views can be enjoyed from the comfort of airy contemporary rooms. Indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and a gym combined with the sea air mean you can't help but feel rejuvenated.

Families - With a creche, indoor and outdoor play areas, a private beach, and plenty of space for little ones - this is ideal for families
Self catering - Self-catering villas with well-equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, & outdoor fire pits are perfect for families or groups
Restaurant - The restaurant serves delicious fresh local produce and seasonal menus. You can choose between family & fine dining
Kayaking - Go on a kayaking or coasteering trip with Lizard Adventure

from AU$234 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Nare

Cornwall (Veryan-in-Roseland)

A longstanding, privately owned “country house by the sea” offering warmth, kindness, old school manners, formal dining and comfortable, traditional bedrooms in a stunning location overlooking Carne Bay. A Cornish home-from-home beloved by many often-returning families

Families - A good choice for an inter-generational break with something to entertain all ages (plus the dog is welcome too)
Active Holiday - With pools, a tennis court, and boats there is plenty to do at the property itself
Self catering - The Pendower Suite and The Lemoria Cottage have kitchens
Sights nearby - The Lost gardens of Heligan and The Eden Project are easily accessible and worth a visit

from AU$771 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Rosevine

Cornwall (Truro)

A charming family-run hotel overlooking the south Cornwall coast. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with tasteful furnishings and warm colour schemes. The popular restaurant serves Modern British cuisine and also caters for kids. The self-catering options make this a family holiday haven.

Families - An ideal family getaway with spacious apartments, a lovely playroom, and a free stay for children under sixteen
Beach Life - A charming beach-chic hotel with stunning sea views, just one minute from the beach
Sailing - An excellent stopping point for a sailing trip around the south coast
Restaurant - Modern British cuisine is served in the restaurant with sea views

from AU$332 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Primrose Valley Hotel

St Ives

Just off the beach, Primrose Valley Hotel epitomises Cornwall's superb hospitality culture. With views that flow out across the beautiful surroundings and stylishly designed rooms, it's a hotel that makes the best of its surroundings. A coastal gem.

Boutique - A compact 11 room Edwardianm home turned into a chic boutique with minimilist style and a hint of nature in each room
Local exploring - Ideal for exploring popular St. Ives and the surrounding Cornish countryside and beaches
Surfing - The Cornish coast is a haven for surfers. From novice to pro, you'll find a wave for you
Sights nearby - Land's End is just over ten miles away

from AU$293 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Carbis Bay Hotel

St Ives

A luxury hotel overlooking one of Cornwall's most beautiful bays. Rooms are light and airy with retro furniture and magnificent views. With a wide choice of dining options, a full service spa, and the beach on the doorstep - this is suited to both couples and families.

Families - With excellent facilities and a whole host of family orientated activities, it's a great spot for a trip with the kids
Active Holiday - With a host of watersports facilities on site, a nearby beach and walking trails, it's perfect for an active holiday
Restaurant - A choice of six dining options ranging from casual fare to fine dining
Spa - C Bay Spa offers a wide range of spa and beauty treatments

from AU$976 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Fistral Beach Hotel

Newquay

Wonderful views over Fistral Beach, the UK surf capital and a relaxing atmosphere abound at this adult-only luxury hotel. Sleek rooms are minimalist in design with the unfussy design drawing focus to the fabulous sea views. With a full-service spa and Cornish fine dining, a romantic couples' escape.

Active Holiday - Whether you want to surf, hike, or stretch out in a yoga class - there are a wide range of activities for guests
Romantic Break - A sleek adult-only coastal hotel with the option of fine dining, in-suite hot tubs, and couples' massages
Spa - The full-service spa comes complete with a vitality pool, steam room, sauna, and hot tub as well as a wide treatment list
Restaurant - Local ingredients are used to produce modern British dishes at the Dune restaurant, one of the best in Newquay

from AU$244 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Pedn Olva

St Ives (St Ives)

A chic cliff top hotel overlooking the pristine white sands of Porthminster beach. White on white throughout, the hotel has a distinctly un-British feel, you could be forgiven for thinking you're somewhere in the Mediterranean. The restaurant is a hotspot for foodies and the town for art lovers.

Families - With spacious family suites, casual dining, and plenty of activities nearby this is a an easy choice for a family getaway
Active Holiday - The area offers a host of outdoor activities from watersports to rugged hikes
Surfing - Head for Porthmeor beach for excellent surf conditions
Restaurant - Seafood and pub classics are served in the restaurant

from AU$351 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Tolcarne Beach Colonial Rooms

Newquay (Narrowcliff Road)

A chic collection of beach cabins and suites set directly on a private stretch of beach. Interiors are quirky and luxurious, filled with antiques and offering indulgent bathrooms and terraces for beach views. The restaurant serves up particularly good seafood. An ideal pick for a romantic break.

Beach Life - Located directly on a beautiful stretch of private beach this is a unique option in Cornwall due to its proximity to the sands
Active Holiday - Whether you want to surf, paddleboard or spend the day hiking - there is plenty to do in the area
Surfing - The surf in Newquay is world renowned and a number of surf schools operate from the beaches
Restaurant - Modern contemporary cuisine using the freshest local produce

from AU$517 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Lifeboat Inn, St Ives

St Ives

A boutique inn overlooking the harbour in the quaint town of St Ives. A handful of smart bedrooms (most with coastal views) feature sink-into beds, simple contemporary fabrics, and indulgent bathrooms. The atmospheric pub is the beating heart of this inn and serves superb seafood.

Families - As well as a family room with double bed and bunks, there are two apartments which can sleep up to 4
Beach Life - A charming Cornish inn offering cosy accommodation right on the picturesque St Ives coast
Sights nearby - The Tate St Ives gallery is a must visit on any trip
Surfing - Book a lesson in the surf school on Porthmeor Beach

from AU$410 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

20 Best Beach Hotels in Cornwall

For the Album

For a Special Occasion

For the Views

For a Beach Break

For a Bucket and Spade Holiday

For Romantics

For Foodies

For Watersports

For Families

For a Waterside Retreat

For Port-town Fun

For Great Value

Still not sure where to book?

20 Best Beach Hotels in Cornwall

Sign up to our weekly newsletter