Port Issac is one of those magical seaside destinations, a little port tucked away in a steep gully, which has meant that the whitewashed fishermen’s cottages have been protected from change, and it feels as if you’re holidaying in history. Of course, change for the good has always been welcome, Port Isaac bats seriously above its weight when it comes to great food and drink, the RNLI station is an impressive and lively local institution, there’s a hipster cafe/deli, and some great little boutiques all squashed into the narrow seafront, where most vehicles should fear to tread. The best places to stay in Port Isaac reflect the village’s historic charms and views while also embracing the foodie revolution.

There’s a lot to commend Port Isaac for families. The contained harbour, with its tidal range, is an ever-changing playground of exposed rock pools, shallow water, and dwindling sand, and during the school holidays there’s a friendly atmosphere and lots of bucket and spade fun. There are some wonderful clifftop strolls in both directions, and lots of other beaches to visit. Neighbour, Bude, has a great toy shop and a sea pool, and Bodmin is an atmospheric inland excursion.

Port Isaac's popularity has ballooned over the last few years: this is where the ITV program, Doc Martin, was filmed, and the film Fisherman’s Friends (it's also where the story behind the film comes from), and the village is swamped during peak season with tourists hoping to see where all the action occurred! This does mean that the best places to stay in Port Isaac are often incredibly busy. So if you plan to visit during July or August book well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Port Isaac

For Harbourside Charm

• The Slipway is right in the centre of Port Isaac, right next to the RNLI station and the harbour, though the first floor views are a bit restricted by the boat ramp. Breakfast is served in a covered area overlooking the water, and is a popular option for visitors not staying in the inn. It's often busy with walkers passing through, and they offer a menu for most of the day, running into pub classics later on. There are just seven rooms and suites, all of them light and bright, with white walls and simple, rustic details. We recommend the sea-view rooms with balconies, which overlook the harbour and the sea wall.

For an Escape

• The Port Gaverne Hotel is just around the headland in Port Gaverne, a small rocky bay with just the hotel and a few cottages. It’s a pretty walk into Port Isaac, though it is hilly. If you’re staying in Port Isaac you’ll most likely come upon the Port Gaverne Hotel on a headland amble, and stop for a drink, but it also has a great little dining room and 15 guest rooms. The pub is very “seafaring pub chic”, but the rooms are simpler and more contemporary, though still with a nautical theme. Expect a friendly atmosphere, local ales and a changing menu that relies on local produce.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The closest airport to Port Isaac is Cornwall Airport Newquay, which is about half an hour away by car or cab, or about three hours away by bus (this is not the easiest region to be relying on public transport). Exeter International Airport is probably next closest, still an hour and a half away by road, but only two and a half hours by rail. If you’re coming down to Port Isaac by rail from London your journey will take you from Paddington to Bodmin Parkway station, from where you’ll need to catch a taxi to Port Isaac: duration four and a half hours, or it’s about nine hours on the bus. Port Isaac clearly isn’t easy to get to, but that is one of its charms.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Port Isaac is most popular in the summer, and school holidays. It’s the kind of place families return to year after year. But if you’re not restricted by having to travel during the school holiday window you’re going to benefit from very affordable accommodation options, and having the place to yourself. The weather is changeable whatever the season, but there’s still plenty of sunshine in winter.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all of the best places to stay in Cornwall
• Consider nearby Bude, the best places to stay in Padstow or Rock
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.