Whether you’re a seasoned sea swimmer looking to explore some of Cornwall’s best swim spots, keen to dip your toes into sea swimming for the first time, or simply fancy a refreshing dip, we’ve put together some of our top cottages for a sea swimming escape. From incredible waterside locations close to popular swimming spots, these getaways have everything you need to dive right in and unleash your inner mermaid or merman!
The Pink House, Bude
Just a short stroll along the coast path from Bude’s famous Sea Pool, The Pink House (sleeps 16) is a contemporary coastal retreat with everything you need for a fun-filled seaside holiday.
The 91-metre-long tidal pool at Summerleaze beach is ideal for swimmers of all ages and abilities, from those looking for a leisurely dip to keen swimmers wanting to get their lengths in. After your sea swim, rinse off under the outdoor shower or head inside, where four bathrooms mean there’s plenty of space for everyone to wash away the salt and sea water. The handy utility room makes washing and drying your swimwear a breeze, too. Then, it’s time to warm up, wind down and head to the terrace or curl up in the cosy lounge with your favourite tipple. The perfect way to come back down to earth after making a splash!
5 South Terrace, Penzance
A cosy cottage located across from Penzance promenade, 5 South Terrace (sleeps 4) is just moments from the shoreline and a stone’s throw from Battery Rocks and the iconic Jubilee Pool.
Wake up, check the sea conditions and then take your pick! Take the plunge into the Atlantic or book a slot at the Art Deco sea pool for a refreshing swim, followed by a relaxing soak in the geothermal pool. After your dip, pop your swimming gear straight into the utility room before heading inside for an invigorating rainfall shower. Once you’re dried off and ready to go, take a stroll into Penzance for a bite to eat at one of the town’s eateries and soak up the historic architecture. A seaside stay with plenty to dive into!
The Decks, Perranporth
Perched on the edge of the magnificent sand dunes, The Decks (sleeps 6) overlooks Perranporth's three mile sandy beach, where Chapel Rock stands proudly. Hidden behind the rock is a natural tidal sea pool, which appears as the tide goes out and makes a lovely spot for a dip – and plenty of fun for little swimmers wanting to make a splash!
From The Decks, enjoy an idyllic walk through the dunes and down to the beautiful sandy beach, before heading towards Chapel Rock and the sea pool. Once you’ve had your fill of swimming, take a pit stop on the way back at The Watering Hole or Alcatraz for a well-earned treat – whether that’s a crisp, refreshing Rattler or an indulgent hot chocolate. Once you’re back, there are several bathrooms, making it easy to rinse off and freshen up, while the handy utility room means your swimwear and towels can be washed, dried and ready for your next dip!
Towan Valley, Porthtowan
Tucked away in a tranquil valley, just a ten-minute walk from Porthtowan’s beautiful Blue Flag beach and rugged coastline, Towan Valley is a collection of light and bright lodges. Dolcoath (sleeps 6), Ding Dong (sleeps 8) and Trelawney (sleeps 6) offer a relaxing escape from daily life, each boasting outdoor space, plenty of bathrooms, all surrounded by the Cornish countryside. Porthtowan is home to a popular surfing beach, lively beach bar, scenic coastal walks, rock pools aplenty and a secluded tidal pool, it is an ocean lover’s dream spot. Hidden among the cliffs, the secluded tidal pool is revealed at low tide and is accessible via the rocks, so take care on your way down. Once you’re there, you’ll find a peaceful spot for a refreshing dip! You'll find these welcoming lodges have everything you need to make the most of the nearby shoreline. Lodge pictured: Trelawney, Towan Valley.
Inter Nos, Mousehole
Located in the heart of Mousehole, Inter Nos (sleeps 6) is a charming bolthole close to the coast, as well as the picturesque harbourside shops and eateries of this beautiful corner of Cornwall. Paddle out into the sheltered harbour for a peaceful swim, or head to the quaint Mousehole Rock Pool, a great spot for little ones and anyone looking for a shallower swim. Spend your days dipping your toes into the clear waters, exploring the stunning coastal path and enjoying the laid-back pace of Mousehole, before returning to your cosy home-from-home by the sea, where you can sit back, relax and watch the tide ebb and flow, feeling refreshed and ready to do it all again!
Number 71, Newquay
Newquay’s harbour offers a sheltered spot for an invigorating sea swim. Whether you stroll out from the sandy beach or take the steps along the harbourside, you’ll soon find yourself immersed in clear waters, with a lush, leafy cliffside to one side and colourful fishing boats bobbing on the other. Overlooking the pretty harbourside, Number 71 (sleeps 8) gives you a front-row seat to the tide and sea conditions, from the terrace and vast bay windows! It’s just a short stroll from your doorstep to the harbourside, passing some some of Newquay’s most popular cafés on the way, perfect for a well-earned post-swim coffee or brunch!
8 Woodlands, Newquay
Perched above the Gannel Estuary in Newquay, 8 Woodlands is in an enviable spot, with a private path leading straight from the garden down to the water’s edge. An outdoor shower is waiting for you on the way back, while the sea-facing hot tub makes this a dreamy retreat for anyone who loves a daily dip, whatever the weather! It’s a great spot for paddleboarding too, and with stylish interiors and stunning views from the balcony, there’s plenty to enjoy once you’re back on dry land. Take a dip, rinse off, then sink into the hot tub and watch the world go by…
If you are ready to take the plunge and head to Cornwall for a wild swimming adventure or simply want to find a coastal retreat where you can relax and dip your toes in the nearby waters... browse all our holiday cottages in Cornwall.
Tags: Wild swimming