Attractions

Things to do in South Cornwall

Discover the best of South Cornwall

Walk along towering clifftops with spectacular views or explore hills that roll gently down to sandy coves and bays. Find wooded river valleys and estuaries that are perfect for sailing, or wander around whitewashed fishing villages, harbour towns and exotic gardens. Or if you fancy something a little different, there’s the Tate St Ives gallery, the National Boat Museum, and the world's largest indoor rainforest at the Eden Project.

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Godrevy beach

Popular with surfers, families and walkers, this sandy beach is on the edge of St Ives Bay and around three miles northeast of the town of Hayle.

Blue Reef Aquarium

Get up close to over 40 naturally themed habitats and discover an underwater aquarium tunnel with incredible views of giant loggerhead turtles, reef sharks and tropical fish.

Cornwall's Lakes

Cornwall’s lakes are an important habitat for local wildlife and plants. These lakes are also used for a wide range of outdoor water activities at five visitor centres.

Newquay Zoo

Get close to the animals, from Africa to South America, as you journey around this terrific zoo, set in tropical botanical gardens. Enjoy the adventure play areas and hands-on experiences including feeding time for the monkeys, lemurs, penguins and lions.

Praa Sands Beach

The sand on this mile-long beach is made from seashells smashed into tiny particles by the sea, so you will be struck by how white the sand glistens in the sunlight!

Eden Project

Visit the largest indoor rainforest in the world and enjoy everything from the spectacular canopy walk and fascinating outdoor sculptures to the longest zip wire ride in England.

Walk Cornwall

Put on your hiking boots and enjoy the history, heritage, and beauty of over 227 different coastal and beach walks ranging from 2 to 10 miles.

The Isles of Scilly

28 miles off the Cornish coast, this group of islands is surrounded by azure waters, white beaches and a wonderful climate where sub-tropical plants thrive.

Portreath Beach

Popular with surfers and bodyboarders, this large sandy beach is set in a steep valley and backs onto a small town which has several small shops and cafes.

Gwithian Beach

The closest beach to the estate, Gwithian Beach is family friendly with lifeguard cover during the summer months. There is a large area of rock pools and even a few caves.

Flambards

Brave the twists and turns of the sky-high thrill rides, discover fossils in the Dino Dig, or step back in time at the Victorian Village and Britain in the Blitz's life-size attractions.

Tate St Ives

A stone’s throw from Porthmeor Beach, the gallery features international contemporary art presented within dramatic spaces or against breathtaking coastal backdrops.

National Maritime Museum

Explore 15 galleries, the National Small Boat Collection plus the 100ft tall Look Out Tower, Under the Sea Tidal Zone and exciting new family-friendly exhibitions.

Lizard Adventure

Take the plunge and experience Cornwall from a different perspective. Go coasteering, kayaking, surfing, paddle boarding, rock climbing and learn some essential survival skills.

The Cornwall Seal Sanctuary

Set in the picturesque Helford Estuary by the beautiful village of Gweek, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary has over 55 years' experience in seal rescue, rehabilitation and release.

Cycling in Cornwall

From routes along old railway lines and through picturesque woodland to the iconic Camel Trail, there are plenty of stunning cycle routes up and down the county.

The South West Coast Path

This world-famous walking trail begins in Minehead and ends in Poole, and takes you along some of Cornwall's most beautiful stretches of coastline.

Lost Gardens of Heligan

Home to tropical plant life and woodland walkways, this historic 200-acre is the perfect place for a relaxing day out. A visit to their bakery for a proper Cornish cream tea is a must.