Girls Weekend in Cornwall – Best Spots & Stylish Cottages

Posted on 29-04-25By: Claire S. | 10 minute read

Why Cornwall is the Dream Location for a Girls’ Weekend

Imagine windswept coastal walks, seafood lunches by the harbour, wild swims in hidden coves, and golden-hour moments on endless sandy beaches — a girls’ weekend in Cornwall offers all this and so much more. With its blend of natural beauty, creative culture, and laid-back charm, Cornwall is the perfect place to escape the everyday and reconnect with your favourite people.

Whether you're after a relaxed, beachy vibe or a touch of stylish adventure, girls’ weekend breaks in Cornwall deliver it all — from chic cafés and art galleries to surf lessons and spa days. In this guide, you'll find handpicked cottages ideal for groups, must-visit hotspots, and inspiring itinerary ideas to help you plan a weekend you’ll never forget. Let’s make your next girls’ getaway something truly special.

Best Places in Cornwall for a Girls’ Getaway

Cornwall is packed with unique towns and villages, each offering something special for a girls’ trip. From chic coastal getaways to vibrant towns full of life, there’s no shortage of options for the perfect weekend. Here are the best places to stay in Cornwall for a girls’ getaway, blending beaches, food, shops, and charm.

St Ives – Art, Boutiques, Beach Cafés, and Sunset Wine

If your group loves a creative vibe, St Ives is the ultimate choice. Known for its thriving art scene, this town is home to the Tate St Ives and local galleries galore. Spend the day browsing the boutiques, then unwind at one of the beach cafés with a glass of wine as the sun sets over the shimmering sea. St Ives is a perfect blend of culture, beauty, and laid-back charm, ideal for those who want a mix of arts and relaxation.

Falmouth – Harbour Views, Independent Shops, Kayaking, and Boat Hire

For a lively yet relaxed girls’ weekend, Falmouth offers a gorgeous mix of harbour views, independent shops, and great food. Rent kayaks or hire a boat to explore the waters or simply enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Afterward, indulge in fresh seafood at a harbour-front restaurant, or explore the quirky shops and cafés dotted throughout the town. Falmouth’s vibrant yet easygoing vibe makes it a great choice for a variety of tastes.

Padstow – Foodie Haven, Scenic Coastal Walks, and Rick Stein’s Restaurants

Padstow is a must-visit for food lovers. Known for its incredible restaurants — especially Rick Stein’s — this coastal town is a foodie paradise. After indulging in delicious meals, take a scenic coastal walk to work off the indulgence and enjoy stunning views of the rugged Cornish coastline. For a girls' trip that’s all about the food and the scenery, Padstow is unbeatable.

Newquay – Surf Spots, Beach Bars, Spa Hotels, and Lively Vibes

If you’re looking for a more energetic, social weekend, Newquay offers the perfect blend of beach bars, surf spots, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re surfing the waves, enjoying drinks at a beach bar, or relaxing in a luxurious spa hotel, Newquay has something for everyone. The town has a young, vibrant energy that makes it ideal for groups who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and fun.

Mousehole – Quaint Harbour Town, Slow-Living, and Unplugging

For a quieter, more relaxed getaway, Mousehole is the perfect place to unplug and recharge. This peaceful harbour town is the epitome of slow living, with its cobbled streets, quaint cafés, and beautiful harbour views. It’s ideal for groups that want to escape the hustle and bustle, enjoy nature’s tranquillity, and indulge in relaxed conversations over afternoon tea.

Polperro – Picturesque Village Vibes, Pubs, and Peaceful Walks

Polperro is a picture-perfect village that feels like stepping into a storybook. With its narrow lanes, pretty cottages, and scenic harbour, it offers a peaceful escape from the more tourist-heavy spots. Enjoy leisurely walks around the village, browse local shops, and unwind in traditional pubs. Polperro is perfect for a quieter, charming getaway with your best friends.

Cornwall Girls Weekend Cottages – Top Picks 

Seals Cove, Polzeath, Cornwall

Sleeps 6, 3 beds, 2 dogs. 7 nights from £625

Welcome to Seals Cove, a tranquil, single-level holiday retreat that embodies a stylish beach house feel. Perched on a hill overlooking the vibrant village of Polzeath, this home offers breathtaking views of the vast Atlantic and the golden sands below. Accommodating up to six guests, Seals Cove features three comfortable bedrooms: two doubles, one with an added wash basin, and a bunk room that’s perfect for younger guests. The stunning landscapes of this destination are undeniably enchanting, whether you're wandering on the beach, investigating the tide pools during low tide, or trekking along the picturesque cliffs. Just a brief ten-minute drive from here lies the fishing village of Rock, situated by the renowned Camel Estuary and affectionately referred to as Cornwall's 'Saint Tropez.'

Why Guests Love It: "Beautiful view, a little gem. Comfortable and had everything we needed." Louise March 2025

The Old FarmHouse, Pelynt, Looe, Cornwall

Sleeps 11, 5 beds, 2 dogs. 7 nights from £2111

Enjoy a fantastic breakaway at this charming farmhouse, complete with a large hot tub and cosy wood burner, ideal for those relaxing evenings in. Guests have free use of a local indoor heated swimming pool. The farm is set amongst rolling farmland and is less than 2 miles from the sea, just off the Looe to Polperro road.

Pentreath 4, St Ives, Cornwall

Sleeps 6, 3 beds. 7 nights from £769

Pentreath is a contemporary property situated within the grounds of Tregenna Castle, nestled in 72 acres—a stunning resort ideal for exploring West Cornwall. Spanning three floors, it isn't recommended for those with mobility challenges. St Ives lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering abundant wildlife and flora to admire; the coastal walks are breathtaking year-round. The nearest larger town is Penzance, just a 20-minute drive away, featuring a vibrant harbour that's perfect for purchasing fresh fish. Additionally, you can visit the renowned St Michael's Mount in Newlyn or take a trip to the charming village of Mousehole—both definitely worth experiencing.

Why Guests Love It: "We absolutely loved staying at Pentreath 4, it is very comfortable, we felt very relaxed, the beds were comfy, the kitchen was very well equipped, the location was perfect." Anna, December 2024.

View More Cottages in St Ives

Evelyn, Port Isaac, Cornwall

Sleeps 4, 2 beds, 1 dog. 7 nights from £535

This pet-friendly holiday bungalow, featuring two bedrooms, is located in a renowned holiday village made famous by the television series "Doc Martin." It's ideally situated for enjoying walks along the South West Coast Path, offering stunning views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. A brief drive will take you to charming fishing villages like Boscastle and Padstow, which boast an array of shops, pubs, and eateries—including Rick Stein's celebrated seafood restaurant and cookery school. From Padstow, you can catch a ferry to Rock for various water sports activities. The nearest shop is 500 yards away, while the pub and restaurant are just a quarter-mile distant.

Why Guests Love It: "First time in Cornwall for many years and also first time in Port Issac, really lovely place, the cottage is ideally situated, very quiet and off road parking, nice garden for our dog Lily, very clean with everything we needed for a lovey holiday, would highly recommend" Graham, October 2024

View More Port Isaac Cottages

Corner Cottage, Combe Martin, Devon

Sleeps 5, 2 Beds, 2 dogs. 7 nights from £405

A charming holiday cottage nestled less than a mile from the beach—an ideal spot to witness some of the finest sunsets this remarkable area has to offer. The vicinity is rich with attractions awaiting exploration, including Combe Martin's local beach, where you can soak in the breathtaking sunsets along the North Devon coastline. Just around the corner lies Combe Martin's own Wildlife & Dinosaur Park, while nearby highlights include Cairn Woodland Nature Reserve, Watermouth Bay & the South West Coast Path, as well as the picturesque Fuchsia Valley and Watermouth Castle & Theme Park. Don't miss out on visiting Ilfracombe, with its historic harbour and port dating back to at least the 12th Century; here you'll find ice cream shops, fish and chips, various craft boutiques, and Damien Hirst's iconic Verity statue.

Why Guests Love It: "We loved staying in corner cottage; it was so cosy and had everything we needed. The only downfall was the parking, would definitely recommend"

View More Combe Martin Cottages

Fern House, Redruth, nr Portreath

Sleeps 6, 3 beds, 7 nights from £519

This charming Victorian home comfortably accommodates six guests across three inviting bedrooms, situated just on the edge of Redruth and close to the peaceful Fairfield Park. Upstairs, you'll find all three bedrooms, while the ground floor features a spacious open-plan living and dining area, a bright conservatory opening onto the garden, and a well-equipped kitchen leading to a modern downstairs bathroom.

Blending boutique hotel style with homely comfort, the house is thoughtfully furnished with everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Outside, the garden offers a mix of patio and lawn with multiple seating areas—perfect for al fresco dining during the day or unwinding in the evening under stunning Cornish skies.

Redruth town centre is just half a mile away and offers a variety of pubs, cafes, restaurants, shops, and a supermarket. Ideally located for exploring the area, the property is within five miles of two beaches—Porthtowan and Portreath—both popular for swimming and water sports.

Why Guests Love it: "We loved our time at Fern House. The house was really clean and we really loved the style, it’s a really cool interior. Location was great, with shops only a 5 minute walk away. I would definitely recommend this place to family and friends. " David, Sept, 2024

View More Cottages in Polperro

View More Cottages in Looe

Three young beautiful happy women female friends having cozy summer picnic with lemonade, fresh bread and fruits on a beach.

Girls Weekend Ideas – What to Do in Cornwall 

Planning the ultimate girls getaway? Cornwall is the perfect destination for a weekend of fun, relaxation, and a little adventure. Whether you're craving beach time, local culture, or indulgent treats, here are some must-do activities for your Cornwall weekend itinerary.

Start your trip with a prosecco-fuelled beach picnic—Porthtowan or Porthcurno offer stunning spots with sweeping views and soft sands. For something more active, book a group surf lesson or try wild swimming in one of Cornwall’s secret coves—it's a refreshing way to bond and boost your energy for the weekend ahead.

Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the iconic Tate St Ives or browsing independent galleries showcasing local ceramics and coastal-inspired pieces. Afterwards, take to the water with a private boat trip or group kayaking session—ideal for spotting seals or simply soaking in the sea air.

Evenings are best spent indulging in seafood feasts at beachside restaurants or sipping cocktails at laid-back beach bars. Fistral Beach, St Ives, and Padstow all offer excellent dining options with unbeatable ocean views.

If you’re in the mood for a slower pace, treat yourselves to an in-cottage spa experience—think massages, facials, and fluffy robes—or go all out, cooking up a three-course dinner together.

The mix of scenic beauty, memorable experiences, and a touch of luxury makes it the perfect escape when it comes to things to do on a Cornwall girls trip. So grab your besties, pack your sunnies, and start planning!

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Tips for Planning a Seamless Girls Getaway in Cornwall

A bit of prep goes a long way toward making your getaway smooth, fun, and stress-free. Here are some practical Cornwall girls weekend travel tips to help you plan with ease.

1. Book early. Cornwall is a popular spot, especially in summer. Secure your accommodation well in advance to get the best locations and prices.

2. Check the details. Make sure your cottage has parking, is easy to find, and suits everyone’s needs. If accessibility is important, double-check stairs, bathrooms, and outdoor access.

3. Pack for all seasons. Cornwall’s weather can be changeable, so bring swimsuits and waterproofs. Layers are your best friend!

4. Stay central. If you’re planning day trips to beaches, towns, or nature spots, choose a base that keeps travel time to a minimum. Redruth, Truro, or Falmouth offer great access across the county.

5. Make budgeting simple. Use apps like Splitwise to track shared expenses so no one’s left covering the whole seafood dinner bill.

6. Stay organised together. A shared Google Doc or map with everyone's must-see spots makes it easy to build an itinerary everyone loves.

Most importantly, keep it light and enjoyable. The best girls weekends in Cornwall are the ones with laughter, good food, and a little flexibility.

Start Planning Your Stylish Cornwall Escape 

Whether your dream girls weekend in Cornwall includes sandy toes and surf sessions or indulgent spa nights and seafood feasts, this stunning coastal destination has it all. With its laid-back charm, beautiful beaches, and endless activities—from kayaking and wild swimming to gallery hopping and sunset cocktails—Cornwall is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect.

Now’s the time to start planning your girls getaway to Cornwall. Browse cosy, stylish cottages that fit your group’s vibe, drop a few ideas in the group chat, and pick a date to lock it all in. A weekend of laughter, adventure, and well-earned relaxation awaits!

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