10 of the Best Things to Do Near Holywell Bay

If you’ve stayed at Trevornick before, you’ll know that this corner of Cornwall is a very special place. With a huge stretch of golden sand backed by grass-tufted dunes and just a short jaunt to the neighbouring towns of Perranporth and Newquay, Holywell Bay has it all. But what are the best things to do when staying with us? Here we explore ten of our favourite things to do…

1. Watch the Seals Play at Polly Joke

With its secret coves, rugged coastline and crystal waters, Polly Joke beach is the perfect Cornish beach upon which to enjoy some peace and solitude. Just two miles from Holywell Bay, Polly Joke might be small but it boasts hidden caves, rock pools teeming with wildlife and turquoise lagoons which appear as if by magic at low tide. Alongside the coast path on the left side of the beach is a secret cove where a harem of grey seals has chosen to raise their pups. Watching the seals play and sunbathe is an amazing experience, just take care not to disturb them as they frolic and enjoy this peaceful bay.

 

2. Enjoy a Cornish Ice Cream at Holywell Bay

When dreaming of Cornwall, we usually think of three things – breathtaking beaches, perfect pasties and, of course, irresistible ice cream! Cornish ice cream has a unique creaminess thanks to acres of rolling green fields and the happiest dairy cows. For us, Cornish ice cream is quite simply the best in the world. Walking, beachcombing and taking in the sweeping views of Holywell Bay is an experience bettered only by slurping a delicious Cornish ice cream. From his little blue ice cream trailer right on the beach, Lionel of St Agnes Ices serves up the most delicious Cornish whippy gelato along with barista coffee and hot chocolates – the perfect stop-off for beachgoers in search of a yummy sugar fix.

3. Take a Dip in Crantock Sea Pool

Since the 16th century, people have flocked to the seaside to experience the health benefits of saltwater bathing. Only locals and those in the know are privy to the tidal sea pool at the far south end of Crantock beach. This quiet spot is the perfect place to get your fix of ‘vitamin sea’ and enjoy an invigorating dip in clear Cornish waters. Whether you do a few lengths in a wetsuit or take the plunge in just your cossie, you’ll feel a million miles from the busy surf spots just around the corner, especially if you go early in the morning. What better way to start the day?

4. Walking on Water 

Explore the wild beauty which wends from estuary to sea with a Stand Up Paddleboard tour down the Gannel. The Gannel is a beautiful tidal estuary that separates Newquay and Crantock village with the River Gannel itself flowing into the sea at Crantock Beach. Supping (as it is known) makes you feel as though you are walking on water – flow with the tide past formidable sand dunes, duck beneath overhanging trees, and glide through clear water pools on your way to the sea. The Gannel boasts sheltered waters which have carved a unique route through the sandbanks, making it the perfect place to enjoy the wonders of stand-up paddle boarding, whatever your level. If paddleboarding isn’t your thing, why not try swimming? It’s nearly a mile so be aware of tide times, be realistic about your personal ability, and never swim alone. 

 

5. Child’s Play – Say Hi to Wild Thing

Wild Thing is a bit of a legend here at Trevornick Holiday Park and visitors of all ages look forward to his cheeky smile and welcoming hugs. Holidays in Cornwall and family adventures go hand in hand, and when Wild Thing is around, fun and adventure are never far behind! With climbing frames and balancing beams built into the trees, a large spider net to climb and tunnels to crawl through, our Forest Trail is the perfect place for little monkeys to let off some steam. We also have Wild Tribe kids club where children can get in touch with their wild side learning all sorts of new skills including mini bushcraft skills, den building, bug hunting, wild art, fire making, foraging and knife and axe skills. Wild Thing can’t wait to welcome you and your little wildlings!

 

6. Make a Splash

Here at Trevornick not only are we blessed with a stunning location close to Holywell Bay but we also have a range of amazing facilities, including a heated outdoor swimming pool. The Splash Zone is perfect for youngsters (and young at heart!) to run, jump, and splash! Brave the tipping buckets, dodge the jets and frolic in the fountains. If you’d rather just relax poolside, the sun terrace is the perfect spot for relaxing with a drink while the kids play, without getting soaked yourself. If you prefer a more rejuvenating afternoon, kick back and unwind in our tranquillity spa, or bubble away the day in the adult-only jacuzzi. Relaxation has never looked so good.

 

7. Sundowner Beach BBQs

After a blissful day at the beach, is there anything better than enjoying a BBQ as you watch the sun dip beneath the horizon? We don’t think so. With waves gently lapping at the shore and Cornwall’s rugged scenery as a backdrop, this is outdoor dining at its finest. Pick up some freshly-landed fish from the local harbour and sizzle over coals, paired with a glass of the finest Cornish cider of course. When the weather is warm and the skies are clear, you have your pick of nearby beaches to enjoy a blazing sunset and starry skies signalling the end to another perfect day. 

 

8. Get Up Close and Personal With Nature

There is so much more to discover in Cornwall beyond the breathtaking coastlines and world-class surf, and here at Trevornick we are perfectly placed to explore everything this incredible county has to offer. The Eden Project is one of the UK’s top tourist spots and is an educational, awe-inspiring eco attraction with something for everyone. A feast for the senses, Eden aims to build relationships between people and the natural world to demonstrate the power of working together for the benefit of all living things. With a rainforest biome, outdoor gardens, art installations, live music and even England’s fastest zip wire to give adrenaline junkies their fix, Eden has it all. 

 

9. Hole-in-One

Whether you consider yourself the next Rory McIlroy or just enjoy nothing more than a leisurely game of golf with friends, we have lots of options for golfing enthusiasts who want to enjoy a round during their stay with us. There is something for all age groups and abilities with three on-site golf courses. With sensibly distanced fairways and the famous cliff-hang 18th hole, our 18-hole pitch and putt course is widely considered to be one of the best golf courses near Newquay. Our 18-hole golf course boasts first-class fairways and outstanding coastal views overlooking the National Trust beach and is a truly entertaining course for all standards of golfers. Little ones will love negotiating their way around obstacles, conquering tricky shots and practising perfect putts on our mini greens. Have you got a hole-in-one yet?

10. Give Yourself the Night Off

Cornwall has earned its place on the gastro map with countless top-quality restaurants bringing food lovers here in their droves. But you don’t have to venture too far to give yourself the night off and enjoy a taste of Cornwall’s finest. We have a choice of three on-site restaurants where you can enjoy everything from a light bite to a hearty family meal. Whether you want to sample delicious burgers and meats from the grill with views to die for or enjoy fish n chips al fresco under the warm Cornish sunshine, we have something to suit all tastes.  Let someone else do the cooking and washing up, this is your holiday after all!

 

What is your favourite thing to do near Holywell Bay? Let us know by joining our vibrant community over on Facebook and Instagram!