Little Polstreath

Little Polstreath is one of those Cornish beaches that doesn't announce itself loudly, which is precisely why it's worth knowing about. Tucked just outside Mevagissey, it's a compact cove with golden sand, backed by low cliffs and a handful of beach huts that give it a proper seaside feel without the carnival atmosphere of the bigger resorts. The beach itself is manageable - you can wade, swim if conditions allow, and poke about in the rock pools when the tide's out. Families with younger kids will appreciate how contained it feels; there's nowhere for them to disappear to, and the shallow approach means they can build sandcastles without you sweating bullets the whole time.

What makes it work for a park holiday is the proximity to Pentewan Sands Holiday Park, just a mile away - close enough for an easy stroll without it feeling like a forced march. If you're based at any of the sites scattered around here, Polstreath is the sort of beach you can hit for a couple of hours, grab a swim, and move on to something else. It's not a destination in itself, but it's absolutely worth the detour if you're staying locally. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the school runs and day-trippers from Mevagissey proper. Parking is tight, though - expect a bit of a hunt in peak season. Bring a picnic; facilities are minimal. Low key, no pretence, and all the better for it.