Where to stay in Cornwall for amazing sea views

Accommodation, Beaches, Coastal

Posted by Kate Williams on 15th May 2023

Where to stay in Cornwall for amazing sea views

Discover our beautiful cottages with sea views scattered along Cornwall’s renowned coastline and start planning your next retreat to the South West. Quaint towns and villages sit on the edge of the county between top-quality beaches and impressive cliffs which can be explored via the South West Coast Path.

For more ideas while planning your next coastal break, take a look at our blog full of beaches you wouldn’t believe are in Cornwall or, if you enjoy surfing during your trips to the South West, read our surfing holidays guide.

Soak up the sea air, watch waves crash against the rocky shore, and dine high above soft sand beaches on your next break to the Cornish coast. Read on to discover the best cottages in Cornwall for amazing sea views.

Cornwall cottages by the sea


Spinnaker in Polruan

Spinnaker, Polruan

Sleeps 7 and 2 dogs  

Spinnaker, a beautiful reverse-level coastal cottage in Polruan, is perfect for a group getaway with views across the fantastic Fowey Estuary to the town of Fowey beyond.

Hop aboard the ferry to venture across the estuary or travel further afield on a trip to the iconic Eden Project or explore The Lost Gardens of Heligan.

A serene conservatory area plus a terrace ensures there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of those incredible views.

What our guests have to say:

"Views looked incredible and we weren't disappointed. Plenty of living space to accommodate a larger group. The bedrooms are a good size with cupboard space. The property is at the top of the walk down into Polruan Harbour. The walk down might be manageable for those who can't walk that far, but walking back up is hard work!" – Vikki 

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Kennack Heights on the Lizard

Kennack Heights - Kennack Sands, Lizard

Sleeps 4

Escape to an elegant penthouse apartment for a truly memorable seaside getaway in Cornwall. The coastal views at Kennack Heights encompass the scenic beach of Kennack Sands and the immense sea beyond.

Families and couples will adore the cliff-top walks and excellent views throughout the area, not to mention the many secret beaches that hide along this scenic stretch of coastline which is just waiting to be discovered.

The coastal apartment itself is beautifully styled with an electric fire, quirky touches of colour, and stylish furniture providing a wonderful space for your Cornwall holiday home.

What our guests have to say:

"Kennack Heights was all we'd hoped for and perfect for our family holiday. Clean, stylish and cosy. Even though we didn't have great weather, it didn't matter as we loved watching the stormy waves at Kennack Sands from the window over hot tea in the gorgeous living area instead! The kitchen appliances made it feel like a real home from home and our en-suite shower was heavenly. We'll definitely be back." – Jess 

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The Bay Cawsand

The Bay Overlooking Cawsand Beach, Cawsand

Sleeps 6

A beautifully elegant coastal apartment with décor that reflects the seaside location, The Bay Overlooking Cawsand Beach is a true favourite due to its excellent terrace that can be enjoyed from inside the cosy lounge/kitchen/diner.

It’s a few steps down to the quiet and pretty Cawsand Beach and you can glance out of your window if you want to check the tide is out before you go. Sit out and enjoy drinks on the terrace or shut yourselves away from the world by closing those floor-to-ceiling French doors before cosying up on the sofa.

This part of Cornwall is beautifully remote, giving you that true escapism feeling, yet you can still visit the bustling city of Plymouth for an exciting day out during your time down here if you wish – it’s just a ferry ride away!

What our guests have to say:

"The apartment is fantastic with an amazing view over the sea - would highly recommend. The welcome cream tea was a lovely touch!" - Michelle

Explore more cottages with sea views: 

  • Fairwinds, Cawsand | sleeps 5 and 2 dogs
  • Omega, Whitsand Bay | sleeps 2 and 2 dogs 
  • The Dell, Whitsand Bay | sleeps 2

Trebarfoote

Trebarfoote, Polruan

Sleeps 6

The fantastic view over the Fowey Estuary and across to the pretty town of Fowey itself will ensure you always have a tranquil place in your holiday cottage to unwind.

Take lunch out onto the terrace at Trebarfoote for al fresco dining or enjoy a nightcap beneath the stars in this excellent location.

While staying here, wander the streets of Polruan or hop aboard the ferry across to Fowey and explore the tiny winding streets and independent shops scattered throughout this scenic seaside destination.

What our guests have to say:

"Absolutely delightful cottage and place to stay: gorgeous, friendly village and surrounds. After the challenge of the drive into Polruan and Trebarfoote, it really made you feel that you had found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow." – Julie

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Seaside apartment in Bude on a sunny day

Bella Vista, Bude

Sleeps 4 

Look out across the golden sand and grassy dunes of Crooklets Beach from this contemporary beachfront apartment in Bude. Perfect for space-seeking couples or small families, this luxurious accommodation is ideally located for exploring Cornwall’s northern coastline. 

On sunny days, soak up the ocean views with a cool drink on the balcony. If the weather isn’t playing ball, then step through the large sliding doors into the open-plan living space and enjoy the far-reaching vistas from the comfortable seating that awaits. 

Wake up at Bella Vista to pleasant coast path views from the two sumptuous bedrooms before setting out to explore this splendid corner of Cornwall. With Bude on your doorstep, and Upton, Widemouth Bay, and Crackington Haven all within 12 miles, there’s no end to the opportunities for seaside adventure.

What our guests have to say:

“What a beautiful apartment. Comfortable, well equipped and a real pleasure to return to after a day of sightseeing. We loved relaxing on the balcony with a cool drink watching the waves and surfers. It's set in a perfect location for the beach and town. Safe, convenient parking.” – Allison

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Crow's Nest, Porthleven

The Crow's Nest, Porthleven

Sleeps 2

Set right on the edge of the cliff overlooking the beach at Porthleven, sea views can't get much better than this!

Enjoy morning walks down to the beach every day of your holiday from The Crow's Nest. With a delightful balcony on which to soak up the sunshine and sea air, it's also just a short stroll from the tempting eateries and boutique shops around the harbourside.

In the winter, watch as the waves crash onto the beach, and take a bracing walk to see them rolling into the picturesque harbour. It's a year-round destination with a host of things to do and annual events, including the Food Festival, Torchlight Procession, Arts Festival and Christmas Fayre.

What our guests have to say:

"Stunning cottage; can hear the sound of the waves going to sleep, and can walk to the harbour at Porthleven so no need for a car if you don't want to drive. A romantic cottage, with a stunning view of the sea. A free nearby car park up a short hill. Would highly recommend." – Sharon 

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Montage of sea view and interior at Lower Trenarthan

Lower Trenarthan, Penzance

Sleeps 4

Sat on the fringes of Penzance, Lower Trenarthan offers breathtaking views across Mount’s Bay. Chic and modern, this property is great for small families and groups of friends looking for a break by the sea. The iconic sight of St Michael’s Mount is truly awe-inspiring and you’re well-placed to explore the nearby beaches. 

The reverse-level accommodation is designed to make the most of the spectacular outlook and the wrap-around balcony is the perfect place to relax while taking in your surroundings. A light-filled living space and two beautifully presented bedrooms ensure a comfortable stay.  

What our guests have to say:

"Apart from the most amazing view from the property and gorgeous lounge/kitchen, the property is perfectly located for the town centre, station, coast path and good base to explore this lovely area of Cornwall. Hope to return in the future" – Neil

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Laburnham Whitsand Bay

Laburnham, Whitsand Bay

Sleeps 2 and 2 dogs

A wonderful stretch of beach lies directly below this coastal cottage offering up a scenic environment so beautiful that the film ‘Turner’ was filmed along this stretch of sand, and the writer Rosamunde Pilcher based many of her books in this area. Laburnham offers a dreamy destination that shows off the very best of this beautiful coastline. 

Make your escape to this beach cottage in Cornwall as a couple, perhaps with two pups in tow, for a romantic escape in a peaceful setting. Experience true quietude during your getaway here as this is a relatively undisturbed area, while the more popular beaches of Cawsand and Kingsand are both a walk away.

Colourful touches and clever design give the cottage itself a wonderful character that reflects the fantastic seaside surroundings.

What our guests have to say:

"A stunning place. We are sailors and this lovely cottage comes very close to the feeling of a yacht but on the ground. The view, solitude and nature are fantastic. And it creates peace and tranquillity. The host Paul helped us with everything, even borrowing a pot to boil our lobster in. He is very nice and reacts very fast to any questions. The cottage is lovely, very convenient and well equipped but not exceptional as is. It is the host, view and location that will make us come back." – Niki 

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Sunnycliff

Sunnycliff - Downderry, Downderry

Sleeps 4 and 3 dogs

A hidden gem down on the South Cornwall coast complete with greenery, a patio, stylish outdoor seating and glass-fronted terraces, this Cornish coastal cottage is all about that view.

You can lounge outside in the warm sunshine at Sunnycliff or, during chilly weather, duck inside this cosy getaway and enjoy a warm and welcoming environment from which to watch the sea waves crash and the stars sparkle at night.

While staying here, you’ll be midway between dog-friendly Downderry Beach and Seaton Beach, both offering pretty stretches of sand for you and your canine companions to enjoy long walks and for children to enjoy rock pooling and exploring.

What our guests have to say:

"Incredible!! The house was perfect! The views are simply breathtaking and the house was immaculate. If you want a getaway from city life and make memories to last a lifetime this house is the one to stay in! The sunsets were mind-blowing, we will definitely be back. Thank you to the owners for letting us rent their incredible home!" - Brook-Leah

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Villa Surfside

Villa Surfside, Hayle

Sleeps 6 and 4 dogs

With an absolutely stunning location, a pretty enclosed garden and room for four dogs, Villa Surfside is a unique beach cottage that would make for a fantastic seaside holiday.

Hayle Beach lies directly in front of this cottage and The Towans long wide stretch of sandy beach is nearby too where you can surf, swim or get up to a whole range of other water sports. St Ives is a drive around the bay and can be seen from the cottage – you are perfectly placed here for quiet and relaxation or for busy days full of adventure.

Dogs will love the long walks along the South West Coast Path, and there are plenty of cosy pubs and cafes locally where you can refuel after exploring the beautiful area.

What our guests have to say:

"A lovely place to stay with the most awesome views of the beach, sea and St Ives across the bay. There is a large garden for dogs to run around in the sun, a private driveway and a pub just a stone's throw away which again gives great views of the sand, sea and St Ives. It is the second year running that we have stayed at Villa Surfside and we look forward to returning again next year!" – Simon 

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Stay with us in a cottage by the sea in Cornwall

If you love to be beside the sea during your holidays, Cornwall is the place to visit. With incredible far-reaching stretches of sand, excellent surf to catch, and delicious waterside eateries and attractions, you could easily spend your entire trip right on the coast. These are some of our top holiday cottages with waterside views but we have many more wonderful holiday cottages by the sea that haven’t got a mention! 

Discover more incredible retreats with sea views by browsing our full collection of waterside cottages in Cornwall.

Cornwall cottages by the sea

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.