Being able to pop out first thing for that morning swim before the beaches get busy is truly idyllic. Just like when the family wants a beach day and you don’t want to have to worry about how much the car park is going to cost you. We know how much being close to the beach can mean, which is why we have put together ten cottages with sea swimming on your doorstep for you.
1. The Beach House
St Agnes | Cornwall | Sleeps 10
Enjoy some of the best sea views from almost every room, this stunning house overlooks Porthtowan and its gorgeous beach. Head down to the beach for a morning dip followed by a hot drink at one of the cafes by the beach.
2. Seaclusion
Westward Ho! | Devon | Sleeps 5
Nassau Court is a striking building which has pride of place right on the seafront with the sea a stone's throw away and the stunning north Devon beaches curving away into the distance.
3. Gwel-an-Keynvor
Padstow | Cornwall | Sleeps 8
Gwel-an-Keynvor will prove the perfect base for beach holidays, clifftop walks and relaxing all year round. With gorgeous views from the windows looking out across Trevone Bay you'll be able to check the sea conditions before you head out.
4. The Retreat
St Helens | Isle of Wight | Sleeps 4
The Retreat sits between Bembridge Harbour and St Helens Duver surrounded by sandy beaches, sand dunes, rock pools and coastal woods all within a small area. Tackt-Isle Adventures is at the end of your drive and offers kayaking, bike hire and many other activities. The Retreat is ideal for those after an activity filled holiday.
5. Rockaway
Portreath | Cornwall | Sleeps 6
Rockaway occupies an idyllic coastal position, with sweeping sea views extending out across the sea towards Portreath harbour wall and beyond to Gull Rock. The family-friendly sandy beach at Portreath is popular with sunbathers, sandcastle builders and surfers alike and at certain times of year when there is a big swell at high tide the resort is visited by keen body boarders who come to surf the harbour wall to ride 'The Vortex'.
6. 4 Bowling Green
St Ives | Cornwall | Sleeps 5
From this stunning cottage you will have all that you need for a memorable holiday right at your feet; galleries, restaurants, boat trips and breathtaking coastal walks and of course beaches perfect for a swim – you will definitely be bowled over!
7. Mintons
Shaldon | Devon | Sleeps 8
Mintons is a holiday destination in itself, with so much to do and enjoy in this amazing house you will find it hard to venture out, however you must! Water lovers are spoilt for choice! With the River Teign, the sandy beach of Shaldon and a host of nearby coves, where sailing, angling, swimming and diving are all possibilities.
8. The Guardhouse
Bridport | Dorset | Sleeps 7
Snuggled into the hillside with Golden Cap behind, The Guardhouse stands watch over this stunning part of the Jurassic Coast at Seatown, with sea views from the front of the house, you are just 50 metres from the water's edge, perfect for a morning dip and day at the beach.
9. Windy Ridge
Seaview | Isle of Wight | Sleeps 10
Windy Ridge is tucked away in the idyllic setting of Seagrove Bay and just steps away from the beach. Priory Bay is the next bay along from Seagrove, a hidden treasure on the Island, the sandy beach gently slopes into the water making it ideal for swimming and a wonderful spot for a beach barbecue.
10. Goofyfoot
St Agnes | Cornwall | Sleeps 8
Nestled on the cliffs of Trevaunance Cove and commanding one of the most desirable locations in St Agnes. Goofyfoot has been designed with a life to be spent outdoors in mind. Steps lead straight from the terrace onto the little road which takes you down to Trevaunance Cove and the surf in moments. Perfect.
Find out which beaches are good for what around Cornwall in our dog friendly beaches in Cornwall blog. If you need any more tempting check out our self catering holiday cottages by a sandy beach.