Colona Beach

The walk down to Colona Beach from Mevagissey feels like you're sneaking away from the crowds. It's a proper hidden corner of the Cornish coast - a small, sheltered cove backed by woodland that gives it a secluded feel even in summer. The beach itself is modest in size, golden sand that gets decent at high tide, and the water's actually swimmable if you don't mind the Atlantic chill.

This is the kind of place families appreciate because it's manageable. Kids won't get bored trudging across acres of sand, and the surrounding cliffs offer enough scrambling about to keep them occupied for an hour or two. Walkers will find it a decent diversion on a longer coastal route - the approach through the woods is pleasant rather than strenuous.

Being free and unstaffed, there are no facilities to speak of, so bring what you need. Parking can be tight in peak season, and the access path isn't paved, so it's not ideal if mobility is an issue. Go early or go midweek if you want to avoid the queues at the car park.

It slots well into a park holiday based around Mevagissey - Treveague Campsite and Pentewan Sands Holiday Park are both within a couple of miles, making it an easy morning or afternoon trip. The beach works best as part of a bigger day out rather than a destination in itself. Worth the detour, but don't expect drama.