Family-Friendly Holidays in Perranporth: What to Know Before You Go

Planning a family getaway to the Cornish coast? Look no further than Perranporth — a laid-back seaside village known for its vast sandy beach, surf-friendly waves, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens, or the whole extended family, Perranporth offers the perfect mix of adventure, safety, and convenience.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
🏖️ A Beach Made for Families
At the heart of any Perranporth holiday is Perranporth Beach — a three-mile stretch of golden sand that’s ideal for children.
Families love it because:
- There’s plenty of space for games, picnics, and sandcastle building
- Seasonal lifeguards make swimming much safer
- Shallow areas are perfect for paddling
- Rock pools appear at low tide for mini adventures
👉 Tip: Always check tide times and swim between the flags for safety.
🌊 Surfing & Water Fun for All Ages
Perranporth is one of Cornwall’s best spots to try surfing. Several local surf schools offer: Check out Peg’s Surf Coaching and Stoked Surf School.
- Beginner lessons for kids
- Family group sessions
- Board and wetsuit hire
Even if surfing isn’t your thing, bodyboarding and paddling are hugely popular — and a great way to keep kids entertained for hours.
🚶 Easy Walks & Outdoor Adventures
You don’t need to travel far for stunning scenery. The nearby South West Coast Path offers family-friendly walking routes with incredible sea views.
Other outdoor ideas:
- Coastal walks suitable for pushchairs (in parts)
- Dune exploring and wildlife spotting
- Beach games and kite flying
🍦 Family-Friendly Places to Eat
After a day on the beach, you’ll find plenty of relaxed dining options:
- Beach cafés serving ice cream, pasties, and snacks
- Casual pubs with kids’ menus like The Tywarnhayle Inn and The Seiners Arms
- Takeaways perfect for sunset picnics
Many places are dog-friendly too — ideal if you’re bringing the whole family along.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Holidays
Perranporth is incredibly welcoming to dogs, making it perfect for family holidays with pets. While there are seasonal restrictions on parts of the beach, there are dog-friendly areas year-round, so no one gets left behind. Check out our dog friendly accommodation.
🌦️ What If It Rains?
Cornish weather can be unpredictable — but don’t worry. On rainy days, you can:
- Visit nearby attractions and indoor play areas
- Explore local cafés and shops
- Take scenic drives along the coast
- 10 things to do on rainy days
👉 Bonus: Stormy seas can be just as memorable as sunny beach days!
🏡 Choosing the Right Family Accommodation
For families, a holiday let often beats a hotel. You’ll benefit from:
- More space for everyone
- Fully equipped kitchens
- Multiple bedrooms
- Easy beach access
Look for properties with:
- Parking – especially in peak season (all of our properties have private parking)
- Outdoor space
- Family extras like high chairs or travel cots (we can provide these)
📅 When to Visit
- Summer (June–August): Best weather, lively atmosphere, lifeguards on duty
- Spring & Autumn: Fewer crowds, great for exploring
- Winter: Peaceful, dramatic coastal views
Each season offers something different — so it depends on the kind of family holiday you want.
✅ Top Tips for Families Visiting Perranporth
- Book accommodation early for school holidays
- Pack layers — even in summer
- Bring buckets, spades, and wetsuits if you have them
- Check tide times daily
- Arrive early for the best parking spots
🌟 Why Families Love Perranporth
Perranporth strikes the perfect balance between fun and relaxation. It’s safe, scenic, and packed with activities — without feeling overcrowded or overwhelming.
Whether it’s your first visit or a yearly tradition, a family holiday here is all about simple pleasures, fresh sea air, and unforgettable memories.
Our holiday homes put you just moments from the beach—perfect for early morning surfs, family days on the sand, and evening strolls along the beach.
Check out our properties here or search availability here. All of the properties we let are in Perranporth and within walking distance of the beach. Most aceept pets and many have sea views too!
