Best outdoor family activities in Cornwall

Cornwall packs more outdoor adventure into one county than almost anywhere in the UK, with surf beaches, sheltered estuaries, sea caves and inland lakes. Here are the best outdoor family activities in Cornwall, from first surf lessons and sea kayaking to coasteering and giant slip and slides, with links to book each one.

Surfing, paddleboarding and coasteering at Crantock

Big Green Adventures is the only activity centre on Crantock Beach near Newquay, so you can learn away from the busiest breaks. Book a surf lesson in small groups, or a SUP lesson and tour up the peaceful Gannel Estuary, which is managed by the National Trust. Older kids and adults can add a kayak lesson and tour or coasteering, and there's bodyboarding too for anyone who'd rather stay in the shallows.

Surf lessons and rock pooling at Fistral Beach

Surf Sanctuary is a small surf school based at the Headland Hotel, looking straight out over the waves of Fistral Beach in Newquay. It works with families and small groups on bespoke surf lessons, and runs rock pool exploration sessions where children can hunt for crabs and anemones. For a bigger thrill, the classic coasteer lets you choose your own route and pace around the headland with a guide.

Kayaking the Helford River and St Agnes

Koru Kayaking runs two-hour guided tours on easy sit-on kayaks, ideal for families new to paddling. The St Agnes Kayak Adventure sets off from Trevaunance Cove to explore the dramatic Poldark coastline, while the Helford Kayak Adventure glides through the tidal creeks and oak woodland of the Helford River near Falmouth. Keep an eye out for seals and herons, and even dolphins on a lucky day.

Family sea kayaking at Port Quin

Cornish Coast Adventures has been running trips from Port Quin harbour in North Cornwall since 2006, led by a local who grew up there. Its family fun sea kayaking session teaches the basics in the natural harbour, then explores caves and looks for wildlife when conditions allow. You can also hire a stand-up paddleboard, and finish with a wood-fired sauna overlooking the beach.

Coasteering and harbour paddling in Porthleven

Vertical Blue Adventures is based in Porthleven on the south coast. Its coasteering trips combine wild swimming, climbing, jumping and rock pooling along the cliffs, and it also runs coastal kayak adventures for those who prefer to stay dry-ish. Beginners can start with a SUP harbour session, which uses sheltered spots in Porthleven Harbour at high or low tide.

Giant slip and slides

Cornwall's summer slip and slides are a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Giant Slip & Slide Cornwall, on the A39 between Wadebridge and Newquay, has seven lanes plus a water pistol battle park. Mega Slip and Slide Cornwall has a 120-metre slide on the Killiow Estate near Truro, and East Crinnis Holiday Park in St Austell Bay runs a 100-metre slide with a café on site.

Lake days at Stithians, Siblyback and Tamar Lakes

When the sea is rough, Cornwall's lakes are a calmer bet. Stithians Lake near Redruth is one of the UK's windiest inland waters, great for sailing, windsurfing and wing foiling, and also offers kayak and paddleboard hire and kids' multi-activity days in the summer holidays. Siblyback Lake on Bodmin Moor has SUP hire and canoe hire alongside a play area and lakeside café, and Tamar Lakes near Bude adds canoe hire and swan pedalos.

A gentle cruise on the Helford River

For grandparents, toddlers or a rest day, Helford River Cruises offers a relaxed cruise along the Helford and its creeks, including Frenchman's Creek, which inspired Daphne du Maurier. Trips launch from the Budock Vean Hotel foreshore after a stroll through its gardens, and times vary with the tides.

Laser tag in Newquay for rainy days

Not every Cornish day is a beach day. Cornwall Laser Tag in Newquay runs one-hour laser tag sessions that are perfect for burning off energy when the weather turns, and you can add a party room for birthdays.

Tips before you go

Check the tides. Many coastal activities run around tide times, so sessions can move, and providers will advise on the best slot for your group.

Book ahead for the summer holidays. Cornwall gets very busy in July and August, so secure lessons and tours early, or visit in spring or autumn for quieter beaches.

Bring warm layers and a change of clothes. The Atlantic stays cool even in summer, so ask what wetsuits and kit are included when you book.

Looking for more ideas? Read our guides to surfing in Cornwall, where to go coasteering in the UK and the East Crinnis slip and slide, or explore more activities in Cornwall on eola.

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