Best holiday parks in Cornwall: tried and tested sites for your next family break

Cornwall is one of the most popular destinations for a UK family holiday and with good reason. Home to a cracking coastline, Blue Flag beaches and picturesque villages, the region is blessed with beauty.

But with so many sought-after spots, deciding where to base yourself can seem a little overwhelming. And accommodation can be on the expensive side, particularly in the summer holidays.

To help you plan an affordable family escape, we’ve taken to the Mumsnet holiday forums for guidance on the best holiday parks in Cornish destinations that Mumsnetters know and love. Whether you’re heading to the surfing hotspot of Newquay, the pretty town of St Ives or the beautiful beaches of Bude, we've got recommendations from families that have stayed in holiday parks in north and south Cornwall and returned as happy campers.

For more tips and inspo, we've got guides to the best holiday parks in the UK, the best Haven holiday parks, the best Parkdean holiday parks, the best holiday parks in Wales, the best holiday parks in Scotland and the best holiday parks in Devon, all featuring recommendations from Mumsnetters.

Best holiday parks in Cornwall at a glance

• Best overall: Haven Perran Sands, Perranporth 

• Best budget: Trevornick Holiday Park, Newquay

• Best location: Pentewan Sands Holiday Park, St Austell

• Best for pools: Hendra Holiday Park, Newquay

• Best for relaxation: St Ives Bay Holiday Park, Hayle 

• Best in north Cornwall: Sandymouth Holiday Resort, Bude

• Best in south Cornwall: Riviera Sands Holiday Park, Hayle

• Best small park: Crantock Holiday Park, Newquay

• Best for luxury: Retallack Resort, near Padstow

1. Best overall holiday park in Cornwall: Haven Perran Sands, Perranporth   

Haven Perran Sands | Check availability

What we like

• Steps from Perranporth Beach 

• Wide range of accommodation options

• Varied entertainment programme

• Impressive pool with flume 

What we don’t like

• The outdoor element of the pool is relatively small

• Recent reviews raised some concerns about cleanliness in the more budget-friendly caravans 

What Mumsnet users say

“We use Perran Sands Haven park at Perranporth, the beach is fantastic.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Gertie75)

“Perran sands In Perranporth Cornwall is our favourite, it’s on its own beach and walkable to the main Perranporth beach. It’s pricey in the summer for a caravan so we usually camp. We love it there.”  (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Coasterfan)

“We've been to Perran Sands a few times, it's really nice, the site itself is set amongst the sand dunes on top of the cliffs overlooking the beach. The beach is beautiful, lovely and sandy with rock pools big enough to swim in.” (Rated by Mumsnet user Gertie75)

Our verdict 

Steps from the golden sands of Perranporth Beach, Perran Sands Holiday Park is a great place to learn how to surf at the local surf school or take a stroll with your family along the picturesque coastal pathway.

There’s a range of caravan options to suit every budget. And you’ll also find safari tents, yurts, chalets, beach houses and lodges, which are ideal for longer breaks. 

Kids will love the heated outdoor pool with a giant slide, flume and lazy river. And there are loads of high-energy activities on site like aqua jets and a NERF Combat Training Camp (charges apply). On dull or rainy days, the cashless arcade is great fun for children of all ages, while the soft play area is sure to delight younger guests. There’s an extensive evening entertainment programme too. 

Dining options include Slim Chickens, the Surf Bay Cafe, and takeaway options like Papa John’s and fish and chips, so you’re sure to find something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Read next: The best family hotels in Cornwall, as loved by Mumsnetters

2. Best budget holiday park in Cornwall: Trevornick Holiday Park, Newquay 

Trevornick Holiday Park | Check availability

What we like

• Heated outdoor pool

• Excellent entertainment programme

• Budget-friendly ready tents are ideal for your family’s first camping experience (with some familiar home comforts)

What we don’t like

• Walk back from the beach can be steep for young children

• Touring part of the park may be less suited to younger children 

What Mumsnet users say

“Trevornick in Holywell is awesome”  (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user scully29)

“How about one of the ready tents at Trevornick? It’s cheap (by Cornwall’s standards), has a swimming pool onsite and is cycling distance to Newquay. There’s a surf school within walking distance at Holywell Bay.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Fivemoreminutes1) 

Our verdict 

Trips to Cornwall don’t tend to come cheap, so if you’re looking to save some of your well-earned pennies, the pre-pitched ready tents at Trevnornick Holiday Park in Holywell Bay, Newquay make a great budget-friendly choice. In addition to these glamping tents, Trenvornick also offers a range of self-catering options including caravans, luxury lodges and cosy cottages, all at different price points. 

Stunning Holywell Bay beach is just a few minutes’ walk away - it’s sheltered between the headlands for a relaxed afternoon with your kids and their bucket and spade. You can also glimpse the iconic Gull Rocks, backdrop to the hit TV series, Poldark. 

The outdoor swimming pool makes the perfect sun trap, while the smaller pool and splash pad is great for toddlers. There’s plenty of outdoor space too - including an 18-hole pitch and putt course, an adventure playground, a woodland forest trail and a large playing field for a kickabout before bed.  

Woody’s Bar and Restaurant serves a ‘mini menu’ and offers great sunset views. Or grab a children’s takeaway box and head to the decking for an alfresco spot. 

The Wild Tribe Kids’ Club offers fun activities during the day (children aged 8 and under need to be supervised) and there’s a jam-packed evening entertainment programme including things like bingo, kids’ discos, magicians, singers and comedians - a great way to end a fun-filled day at the beach.  

Read next: The best things to do in Cornwall with kids

3. Best-located Cornwall holiday park: Pentewan Sands Holiday Park, St Austell

Pentewan Sands Holiday Park | Check availability

What we like

• A five-star holiday park with sea or woodland views 

• Located on the beach 

• Indoor pool with flume 

What we don’t like

• The evening entertainment programme is not as extensive as in previous years

• Recent reviews suggest the Wi-Fi connection can be unreliable

What Mumsnet users say

“Pentewan Sands, Mevagissey. Has its own beach! Indoor pool, bar, playgrounds etc. Close to lots of fab stuff to do.”  (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user MegBusset)

“The caravan park by Pentewan Sands is the nicest one I've seen. Right on the beach, close to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Mevagissey, Eden project etc.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Xiaoxiong) 

“Another vote for Pentewan Sands. It’s right on the beach and lots to do locally. We go every year at least once.” (Rated by Mumsnet user Onionbhajisandwich)

Our verdict 

Situated directly on a privately-owned beach with a small playground right on the sand, five-star Pentewan Sands offers a relaxed base for families, with incredible views across Mevagissey Bay. And it’s well placed for visiting some of Cornwall’s most popular spots, including the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project. 

Accommodation ranges from spacious touring pitches to luxurious holiday homes with a choice of sea or woodland views. You won’t find as many facilities compared to larger Haven and Parkdean resorts but there’s still plenty to offer families. There are two indoor swimming pools, including a play pool with flume, as well as an indoor amusement arcade for a more traditional seaside vibe. 

If you’re an active family, hire bikes to explore the local villages of Mevagissey, Pentewan and St Austell, or head to the on-site tennis courts for a family tournament.

The shallow beach area is ideal for toddlers. More energetic guests can head to Cornwall Watersports to get involved with activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing. 

When it comes to food, you’ll find home-cooked dishes and sunset views across Mevagissey Bay at The Seahorse. Or opt for laid-back dining at Hubbox Beach Shack or the onsite takeaway, Pentewan Plaice (see what they did there?) 

It’s worth noting that recent changes to the entertainment programme at Pentewan Sands have had mixed reviews, with children’s shows now held in a large marquee in the garden area. While some may miss having entertainment the whole family can enjoy together, it does allow the Seahorse Restaurant to have a calmer, more relaxed environment in the evenings.

Read next: The best family-friendly beaches in Cornwall, as rated by parents

4. Best holiday park in Cornwall for pools: Hendra Holiday Park, Newquay 

Hendra Holiday Park | Check availability

What we like

• Extensive entertainment programme

• An outdoor pool and Indoor Oasis pools with flumes and a river ride

• Fun Hendra land train that travels around the park 

What we don’t like

• The indoor pool and flumes incur a (discounted) charge 

• Park is now completely cashless 

• The beach is 10-15 minutes away

What Mumsnet users say

“Hendra Holiday Park, near Newquay. Is a few minutes drive to the town and beaches. Is wonderful.”  (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user aibutohavethisusername)

“Hendra near Newquay in Cornwall has a good pool with 3 slides. Really nice holiday park.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user DefConOne) 

Our verdict 

Set in 80 acres of landscaped parkland and located within a short distance of Newquay’s popular surfing beaches, this award-winning family-run holiday park offers a wide range of touring and camping options, as well as more luxurious caravans and holiday homes.

Home to some of the largest fun pools in the South West (open to non-residents too), the Oasis indoor pool features three fast-paced flumes, a rapid river ride, a water cannon and a waterfall as well as a separate smaller pool aimed specifically at toddlers. 

While they do charge a small discounted fee for the indoor pool, Hendra also has an outdoor heated pool which is free of charge for residents - a great place to soak up some sun during the warmer summer months. 

Created with families in mind, there are loads of on-site facilities to keep children entertained, whatever the weather. Outdoors, you’ll find a variety of play areas, as well as a high-energy scooter and skate park. For an additional charge, you can even book a drive in the Mini 4x4 off-road vehicles for children aged 4-10, or head out on a guided segway tour with your tweens and teens.

Little legs will love the Hendra Land Train that tours around the park, whilst the three indoor arcades and soft play park ensure the fun continues even if the weather takes a turn. 

With a newly refurbished Terrace Bar and Restaurant, along with a pizza and chip shop takeaway, there are plenty of food options too. Hendra also has a daily entertainment programme with their loveable mascots Henry and Henrietta Hippo, with everything from live stage acts and theme nights to bingo, acrobats and magicians.

5. Most relaxed holiday park in Cornwall: St Ives Bay Holiday Park, Hayle 

St Ives Bay Holiday Park | Check availability

What we like

• Luxury accommodation options including hot tubs 

• Breathtaking views and a great base for Land’s End 

• Great children’s dining spots

• Access to a private beach

What we don’t like

• Quiet for children during the day 

• No flumes or slides at the pool 

• Lower-budget accommodation has mixed reviews 

What Mumsnet users say

“St Ives Bay Holiday Park is a great place to stay, away from the main tourist beaches in St Ives but with fantastic views over the whole bay, and well-maintained beaches right on the doorstep.”  (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user NWUK)

“St Ives Bay Holiday Park. Big park right on a stunning beach. Dunes are a bit steep though. Pool and play areas. Good kids entertainment. You can get a train round the bay to St Ives.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user TheSconeOfStone) 

Our verdict 

Not everyone loves the hustle and bustle of a traditional holiday park, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe that still offers plenty of family-friendly facilities, St Ives Bay Holiday Park could be an ideal choice. Here you’ll find touring and camping options as well as more luxurious open-plan lodges with sea views and hot tubs.

As well as offering breathtaking views across St Ives Bay, this holiday park makes an excellent base for visiting the UK’s most westerly point, Land’s End. With direct access, your steps from three miles of private sandy beach, where there’s a resident surf school.

With a relaxed feel on site, kids will love the outdoor playground and crazy golf course, as well as the indoor heated swimming pool with a smaller pool for younger children and toddlers. 

At the end of a fun-filled day, families can enjoy watching the sunset from Sands Bistro, where kids can enjoy a four-course meal for under £10. Evenings also bring Away Resorts Live entertainment to the family stage including bingo, tots discos, live music and stage shows.

6. Best holiday park in north Cornwall: Sandymouth Holiday Resort, Bude

Sandymouth Holiday Resort | Check availability

What we like

• Within walking distance of Sandymouth Bay 

• Huge Black Pearl Pirate Ship play area

• Heated indoor pool 

What we don’t like

• Walk back from the beach can be tiring for little legs 

What Mumsnet users say

“A smaller park is Sandy Mouth near Bude. It’s recently had a big upgrade. Reasonable pool and great kids play area. Close to lovely national trust beach. Lovely beaches around Bude.”  (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user TheSconeOfStone)

“Hoseasons Sandymouth Bay near Bude is fab, My daughter & I stayed in the Tintagel beach shack overlooking the sea.  We have been three times since my daughter was four when we first went & loved it.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user 5sacrowd) 

Our verdict 

Sandymouth Holiday Resort is a popular holiday park in north Cornwall home to caravans, holiday homes and lodges. Part of the Hoseasons Go Active breaks collection, it’s great for adventurous families. A 15-minute drive from Bude and close to the north Devon border, it’s set in 24 acres of meadowland and gardens.

Sandymouth Bay beach is a short walk away and home to some pretty impressive rock pools for paddling and excellent surf schools (note that the walk back up can be a little tiring for younger kids. 

There’s a large indoor heated pool and a huge pirate ship adventure playground, with an exhilarating trim trail and outdoor gym equipment to burn off any excess energy before bed. There’s archery, body zorbing and sea scooters available for an extra fee. 

As the sun goes down, you can tuck into some family favourites at the onsite bistro before enjoying some evening entertainment like pub quizzes, bingo or a visit from Charlie Bear.

7. Best holiday park in south Cornwall: Riviera Sands Holiday Park, Hayle

Riviera Sands Holiday Park | Check availability

What we like

• Excellent elevated location

• Close to the shops and beaches of St Ives 

• Outdoor pool with water slide

• Fun entertainment programme  

What we don’t like

• No indoor pool for rainy days

• Further away from other Cornwall attractions 

What Mumsnet users say

“Haven Riviera Sands has caravans right on the cliff edge so nice sea view, near St Ives.”  (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Polly111)

“We love Riviere Sands in Cornwall.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user ballsdeep) 

Our verdict 

With an elevated location, Riviera Sands Holiday Park overlooks the stunning St Ives Bay and is home to a spectacular surf school, perfect for teens wanting to try their hand at surfing, paddle boarding and windsurfing.

Kids will love the outdoor pool with its double lane water slide, and the new mini ariel adventure agility trail. If the sun turns to drizzle, the Funworks amusement arcade offers a traditional seaside vibe. 

Family-friendly dishes are served at the Bluff Inn, and the Coast Cafe terrace (complete with an outdoor play area) is perfect for a lunchtime snack with stunning views 

The Seaside Squad delivers evening fun via an entertainment programme designed to appeal to guests of all ages.

8. Best small holiday park in Cornwall: Crantock Beach Holiday Park, Newquay

Crantock Beach Holiday Park | Check availability

What we like

• Smaller park for a more relaxed holiday

• Excellent location for exploring Cornwall’s family-friendly attractions 

• Five-minute walk to the beach 

What we don’t like

• Walk back from the beach is a steep incline 

• Quieter park may be best suited to those with babies and toddlers 

• No pool

What Mumsnet users say:

“Small, low key but five min walk to the stunning surfing beach, Parkdean Crantock near Newquay.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user NoLeopard)

“Crantock beach! Absolutely gorgeous and so easy to get to from the car park. We go to every year”  (Location rated by Mumsnet user Indoorvoicesbluey)

Our verdict 

If you’re travelling with a toddler or a young child and are looking for a smaller and quieter base, Parkdeans’ Crantock Holiday Park is an excellent choice, with caravans and lodges that are conveniently located for attractions such as Newquay Zoo and the Eden Project. 

Directly overlooking the sea, the park is a five-minute walk from the beach where the beautiful golden sands provide a blank canvas for sand castles. Far less crowded than nearby beaches in Newquay, it’s also relatively sheltered and protected from the wind thanks to the expanse of sand dunes and headlands.

Young children will love the outdoor adventure playground and nature trail, while the nine-hole crazy golf course is a fun activity for the whole family. We love the picnic and barbeque areas, ideal for families wishing to make the most of those longer summer nights. 

There’s a very relaxed entertainment programme at Crantock Beach, so if you’re after kids’ clubs and daily activities, this isn’t the park for you. For an excellent location however, where you can make the most of Cornwalls’ natural beauty, it’s a great alternative to the bigger, busier sites which can be overstimulating for little ones.

9. Best luxury holiday park in Cornwall: Retallack Resort, near Padstow

Retallack Resort | Check availability

What we like

• Luxury accommodation with lakeside views 

• Fun aqua park including Cornwall’s only flow rider

• On-site spa for parents

What we don’t like

• Costly in peak season

• The nearest beach is around 18 minutes away

What Mumsnet users say

“Definitely Retallack with teens!” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Ricekrispie22)

“This place is amazing.” (Rated by Mumsnet user getoutof)

Our verdict 

If you’re travelling with older children or teens, or are simply looking for a more luxurious base for your family holiday, Retallack Resort & Spa is a big hit with Mumsnet users, despite its premium price tag.

With stylish accommodation options including barns, lodges and apartments (some with hot tubs) it offers a stunning lakeside location surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Parents will love the onsite ESYA spa for some much-needed R&R and there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained. Younger kids will love the natural adventure playground and there’s an indoor pool for children of all ages.

Retallack is home to Cornwall’s only flow rider, a fun upright surf simulator where you can practice your surfing technique (or laugh at family members when they struggle to stand up). For some serious laughs, challenge the entire family to the wipeout-style inflatable aqua park, jumping across the obstacles in a race to reach the end. 

There’s no evening entertainment at Retallack but you’ll most likely want to chill out in your accommodation after a high-energy day of fun. The Lookout Bar and Eatery is a great place for dinner with a varied menu including stonebaked pizzas, seafood and grills.

What’s included in the price of a holiday park stay?

Holiday parks and resorts may vary but most packages include family-friendly accommodation and access to on-site facilities including restaurants and outdoor facilities such as playgrounds and pools. Many Cornwall holiday parks have some entertainment included, whether that’s kids’ clubs and daytime entertainment or a jam-packed evening entertainment itinerary during peak season.

Some holiday parks charge a small fee for activities such as surf hire, archery and instructor-led sessions. Since the covid pandemic, you may also find that holiday parks have moved to a pre-booked system to manage numbers in their swimming pools and activity centres. 

What’s the best destination in Cornwall for families?

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to family-friendly locations in Cornwall, with both north and south Cornwall having plenty to offer in terms of fantastic beaches, fun attractions and breathtaking countryside. 

Newquay is a popular base for families, with a variety of attractions like Newquay Zoo, the Eden Project and The Lost Gardens of Heligan all just a short drive away. It’s also a convenient option for those flying to Cornwall, with a small airport right in the centre. 

If the longer journey doesn’t put you off however, St Ives is also a firm favourite among Mumsnet users thanks to its stunning scenery, awesome art exhibitions and picturesque cafes, restaurants and pubs. 

What’s the biggest holiday park in Cornwall?

Haven Perran Sands is the biggest holiday park on our list of recommended holiday parks in Cornwall, with a wide range of accommodation options and an extensive list of family-friendly facilities. 

Hendra Holiday Park has the biggest campsite with touring and camping facilities and pitches spanning 80 acres. 

What’s the best holiday park in Cornwall?

When it comes to our overall best pick, Perran Sands Holiday Park takes the top spot for our best holiday park in Cornwall. While the touring and camping options may not be to everyone’s taste, the park has a great location, with a wide range of accommodation options, excellent facilities and entertainment suitable for all ages.

For a more budget-friendly alternative, Trevornick’s ready tents make a great first camping experience for families keen to embrace Cornwall’s natural surroundings. 

How we chose our recommendations

In order to bring you our list of recommended holiday parks in Cornwall, we first headed to the Mumsnet forums to find out which family-friendly holiday parks and Cornwall destinations in Cornwall were being recommended by our users.

We then looked at which holiday parks in Cornwall had won awards or had been featured in top publications as well as what customer reviews said about them. Having collated all that information, we then narrowed our list down to the best holiday parks in Cornwall at the moment.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.

Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.

About the author

Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby/child and lifestyle product reviews and roundups. Having written product reviews on her own blog, Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of baby products, scrutinising reviews and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.  

As a city dweller from Birmingham, Lucy has spent many of her summers travelling down to Devon and Cornwall with her family, with a trip to Newquay planned in the not-too-distant future. 

Originally from a HR background with a degree in Business Studies, Lucy developed a real passion for blogging and writing when her children were young, going on to write for several online publications including US parenting site Pregistry and the Evening Standard. When she’s not manically tapping the keys of her laptop, Lucy loves nothing more than to cosy up with her Kindle and enjoy the latest thriller, or compete in Nintendo Switch rallies with her daughters, aged six and 10.