For millions of us in the UK, the seaside getaway is a firm favourite when it comes to holidays, and when you look at the stunning beaches that are right on our doorstep, it’s easy to see why.
Cornwall attracts around 1 million visitors every year, as people flock to the coast to enjoy the sea, sand and surfing.
Most holidays are taken in July and August, when the school holidays begin and we take the opportunity to escape the day-to-day routine and head off for the annual get-away.
So if you’re planning your visit to the coast, here are some essential ingredients for the perfect Cornish beach holiday.
5. Bucket and spade
Sometimes it’s the simple pleasures that bring the biggest reward, and when you lift that bucket triumphantly to reveal a pristine sandcastle beneath, you’ll see what we mean.
You may choose to use a brightly coloured plastic bucket, bought from one of the many seaside shops near to the beach to create a simple sandcastle from a mould.
Or you may channel your inner architect to carve out a moat with drawbridge and turrets by hand.
Either way, building a sandcastle is essential to living the Cornish beach holiday experience, and with plenty of beaches within easy reach of the holiday park here at Monkey Tree, you’ll find it hard to resist.
4. Fish and chips
British consumers eat around 380 million portions of fish and chips every year, and they rarely taste better than when enjoyed out of the paper overlooking one of Cornwall’s beautiful beaches.
You could go completely mad and treat yourself to a side portion of mushy peas or a battered sausage, but our favourite is freshly caught battered cod served with vinegar-soaked chunky chips. Yum.
(And if you’re worried about the health benefits, remember that fish and chips provide a third of the recommended daily allowance of vitamins for a man and nearly half for a woman – any excuse).
3. Sunbathe
Don’t laugh – we accept that UK Summers aren’t always blessed with wall to wall sunshine, but there is almost always the opportunity in a week to hit the sand and soak up some rays*.
So pack a book, a newspaper or just a pair of sunnies, and settle yourself down for some serious rest and relaxation on the sand.
2. Cornish ice-cream
If you haven’t yet tried a Cornish clotted cream ice-cream, you’re in for a treat.
Made with rich clotted cream and served simply in a waffle cone (perhaps with a flake), the traditional Cornish ice-cream is a treat for the senses with its smooth texture and pleasing curves.
(Word of warning: eat it quick before it melts).
1. Paddling in the sea
Oh that feeling as the waves gently lap over your toes for the first time this year.
Yes, it might be cold. Yes, it might give you brain freeze, but it’s one of the best ways to relax and live in the moment.
Research shows that the sound of waves helps you relax and the sea air increases happiness and the quality of your sleep.
That might explain why it’s one of the top beach holiday past-times for millions every year.
What else tops your list when you hit the beach on your holiday to Cornwall? Share on the Facebook page.
And if you’re looking for a last minute getaway, check out our latest special offers and book online to stay at Monkey Tree Holiday Park today.
* Safely of course – don’t go and get sunburnt but make sure you wear the appropriate sun protection.
