Rockpool

A three-bedroom cottage in Harlyn Bay sleeping 6, set 500m back from the beach with a conservatory looking onto an enclosed garden. Part of the Harlyn Cottages cluster, no pets, with 44 reviews on the Sykes book.

Three bedrooms share a single family bathroom - worth noting for groups of 6, where mornings can queue. Downstairs the conservatory adds a useful second sitting space when the wind is up off the Atlantic. Wifi, dishwasher, washing machine, and off-road parking included. Saturday changeover.

Harlyn Bay Beach is north-facing and sheltered from the prevailing south-westerlies, which makes it the calmer family beach of the Seven Bays of St Merryn - usable when Constantine Bay a mile north is too exposed. RNLI lifeguards in summer, Harlyn Surf School from the sand, and the Harlyn Inn at the top of the beach for lunch. Padstow is 3 miles south for the Stein restaurants and the Camel Trail. Trevone Bay and its blowhole sit 1.6km east along the coast path.

Best for two-couple or small-family groups who want a sheltered surf beach within walking distance and a quiet garden to retreat to. Less good for larger parties of 6 sharing one bathroom, or anyone bringing a dog - book Polwen or 6A The Mews instead.