Romantic Cornwall: The Ultimate Couples’ Guide

Introduction: Why Cornwall Is Perfect for Couples

Ah, beloved Cornwall. The land of sunsets, ocean views and dramatic landscapes is truly a dream place for partners to create unforgettable moments together. If you’re looking for ideas of things to do in Cornwall for couples, our romantic guide to Cornwall will provide all the inspiration you need to reconnect and unwind together. 

Romantic Beaches for Two

Fancy falling in love all over again? Nothing says romance quite like discovering Cornwall’s hidden coastal gems together. Here are our favourite beaches for romantic picnics and dreamy sundowners that couples will love. 

Kynance Cove: Nature’s Masterpiece

If Mother Nature had a portfolio of her finest work, Kynance Cove would be on the cover. This breathtakingly beautiful beach on the Lizard Peninsula is just a scenic drive from Padstow and well worth the journey for couples seeking that “wow” moment together.

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic rock formations, and powdery white sand, Kynance Cove is Cornwall’s answer to the Caribbean. Visit during low tide when the cove reveals hidden caves perfect for whispering sweet nothings with magical echoes. Our tip? Arrive early or visit in shoulder season to avoid the crowds.

Porthcurno Beach: Dramatic Scenery & Seclusion

Looking for a beach that’s straight out of a romance novel? Porthcurno delivers with its golden sands nestled between towering granite cliffs. The dramatic approach alone, with a steep descent revealing glimpses of the azure sea below, will have you clutching each other’s hands in anticipation.

What makes this spot extra special for couples is the open air Minack Theatre perched on the cliffs above – Shakespeare would definitely approve of this setting for star-crossed lovers! After a day of sunbathing and swimming in the crystal clear waters, why not catch an evening performance together under the stars?  

Lusty Glaze: Private Beach Dining Experience

Don’t let the cheeky name fool you (though it certainly sets the mood!) – Lusty Glaze is a secluded beach cove on Newquay’s outskirts offering one of Cornwall’s most romantic dining experiences. 

This horseshoe-shaped beach is privately owned but open to the public, and hosts sunset dinners, which we think is one of the best things to do in Cornwall for couples (boat trips aside, of course). 

Best Scenic Coastal Walks Hand-in-Hand

When you’re not spotting seals and dolphins aboard our boats, there’s nothing quite like exploring Cornwall’s breathtaking coastline on foot, especially with someone special by your side.  

The South West Coast Path Highlights

This magnificent 630-mile path offers couples the chance to wander through some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery, with Padstow sitting pretty as one of its crown jewels.

For a perfect day out, try the stretch from Padstow to Stepper Point. This moderate 4-mile route rewards your efforts with panoramic views across the Camel Estuary that will have you both reaching for your cameras. Pack a local pasty and find a secluded spot for lunch with a romantic view that no restaurant could match.  

St. Agnes to Chapel Porth: Sunset Walk

If you believe sunsets were invented specifically for romantic moments, then the St. Agnes to Chapel Porth walk needs to be at the top of your list for things for couples to do in Cornwall. 

This relatively easy 2-mile coastal path takes you through an area steeped in mining history. Time your walk to arrive at Chapel Porth beach about an hour before sunset. As the golden light bathes the dramatic cliffs and abandoned engine houses, you’ll understand why artists have been drawn to this coastline for centuries.

Lizard Peninsula: England’s Most Southerly Point

The circular walk from Lizard Point takes you across dramatic clifftops where the Atlantic Ocean meets the English Channel in a sometimes-dramatic flurry of waves.

This moderately challenging 4-mile route offers plenty of “just us” moments, with hidden coves and secret beaches appearing below as if by magic. The lighthouse at Lizard Point provides the perfect landmark for that “we were here” selfie, while the nearby café offers a well-deserved cream tea afterwards. 

Cultural Experiences to Share

Cornwall offers some truly spectacular cultural experiences perfect for couples looking to feed their minds as well as their hearts. Here are some of our favourites:

Tate St. Ives: Art with Ocean Views

For couples who like their romance with a side of artistic inspiration, Tate St. Ives is the gallery that proves art galleries don’t have to be stuffy or boring. Perched overlooking Porthmeor Beach, this stunning gallery celebrates the artists who’ve been drawn to St. Ives’ unique, magical light for decades.

Wander hand-in-hand through exhibitions featuring both international and local artists, occasionally getting distracted by the floor-to-ceiling windows framing perfect views of the sea. The gallery’s architecture is an artwork itself, with curved walls and natural light creating a space that flows as beautifully as the tides outside.

Lanhydrock House: Victorian Romance Among the Bluebells

With its architectural splendour and romantic gardens, Lanhydrock House offers the perfect thing to do in Cornwall for couples. 

This magnificent Victorian country house near Bodmin gives you a glimpse into the upstairs-downstairs world of 19th-century Cornwall. Unlike many stately homes that only show the fancy rooms, Lanhydrock lets you explore both the lavish family quarters and the fascinating servants’ areas. Hold hands while wandering through the morning room where ladies once wrote love letters, or whisper sweet nothings in the magnificent Long Gallery lined with rare books.

The real romance, however, unfolds in the estate’s extensive gardens and woodland. Time your visit for spring when the woods are carpeted with bluebells, creating a purple haze that looks like something straight out of a romantic movie.   

Lost Gardens of Heligan: Romantic Botanical Wonders

If you want to explore Cornwall and secret gardens set your hearts aflutter, the Lost Gardens of Heligan offer the perfect blend of horticultural magnificence and historical intrigue. Abandoned after WWI and rediscovered in 1990, these gardens tell a story of loss and resurrection that’s as moving as any romance novel.

Wander through 200 acres of garden paradise, from the lush subtropical jungle to the romantic Italian Garden. For peak romance, visit in spring when rhododendrons and camellias paint the woodland in vibrant colours. In winter, the Heligan Night Garden offers an enchanting lantern experience amidst the atmospheric Lost Gardens, which is one of the more unusual things to do in Cornwall for couples, but romantic and beautiful too. 

Adventure Activities for Couples

Who said romance can’t be a little wild? At Padstow Sealife Safaris, we believe some of the strongest bonds are formed when you’re both slightly outside your comfort zones.

While our boat trips offer the perfect blend of excitement and wildlife spotting, Cornwall offers plenty of other adventures for couples looking to create memories with a side of adrenaline. Grab your partner’s hand and dive into these thrilling experiences that are guaranteed to bring you closer, sometimes literally!

Wildlife Encounters- A Shared Discovery

Here at Padstow Sealife Safaris, we offer the ultimate shared wildlife experience for those looking for a unique idea for couples to do in Cornwall. 

Enjoy a 2-hour boat trip adventure out of the Camel Estuary to the wild Atlantic Ocean, in search of an array of marine wildlife. From the moment a pod of common dolphins decides to surf our bow wave, or a sunfish makes a rare appearance, you’re creating memories that will resurface in conversation for years to come and creating special memories together of your time spent in Cornwall. Learn about coastal points of interest such as Port Isaac, Port Quin and Trevose Head, with unrivalled sea views from the water.

Surfing Lessons for Beginners

Surfing lessons are the perfect combination of challenging, hilarious, and occasionally romantic- especially when you need to be rescued from your upside-down position by your other half. The post-surf glow is real, too – something about the combination of salt water, exercise, and shared laughter creates a special kind of euphoria.

Cornwall’s north Cornwall coast offers some of the UK’s best surfing beaches, with Fistral in Newquay being the undisputed surf capital. However, for couples, we recommend the slightly more forgiving waves of Harlyn Bay near Padstow. Perfectly positioned for a morning surf lesson followed by an afternoon wildlife safari with us, this sheltered bay offers gentler conditions ideal for beginners.

Coasteering: Facing Challenges Together

If you really want to test your relationship (in the best possible way), coasteering is Cornwall’s ultimate couples challenge. There’s something powerfully bonding about helping each other clamber over slippery rocks, offering an encouraging word before a big jump, or simply sharing the wide-eyed “I can’t believe we’re doing this!” look as you plunge into the Atlantic together.

This unique adventure sport combines cliff jumping, rock climbing, cave exploration, and wild swimming as you navigate a stretch of coastline without a boat – just your wits, a wetsuit, and a very secure helmet.

Popular locations like Newquay’s Gazzle or the rugged cliffs near Padstow offer guided sessions suitable for all fitness levels. Professional instructors ensure safety while gently encouraging you both to push your boundaries – whether that’s jumping from progressively higher rocks or swimming through a gully you’d never tackle alone.

Padstow’s Pedal-Powered Adventure

Padstow boasts excellent bike hire options, offering everything from tandems (the ultimate relationship test!) to electric bikes for those who prefer their romance without excessive perspiration.

The magnificent Camel Trail, a flat 18-mile former railway track, winds alongside the stunning Camel Estuary through wooded valleys and past picturesque viewpoints. Perfect for couples of all fitness levels, this traffic-free path connects Padstow to Wadebridge and onwards to Bodmin, with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities and charming pit-stops along the way. Just remember to book your bikes in advance during summer months, as the trail’s popularity matches its beauty.

Foodie Adventures for Two

Nothing brings couples closer than sharing amazing food and drink after a day enjoying all Cornwall has to offer. We’ve compiled our favourite culinary experiences that are guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds and create memories that will linger long after you’ve finished your romantic meal for two. 

Culinary Experiences in Padstow

We might be biased, but Padstow isn’t just our home, it’s the (unofficial) food capital of Cornwall. Affectionately nicknamed “Padstein” due to chef Rick Stein’s influence, our little harbour town packs more culinary punch than destinations ten times its size.

There’s something undeniably romantic about creating a meal together, so why not start your gastronomic journey with a seafood cookery class at Rick Stein’s Cookery School? Here you’ll learn how to fillet fish properly and create delicious restaurant-quality meals at home. 

For a refined romantic dining experience, book a table at Paul Ainsworth at No. 6, where Michelin-starred magic happens in a beautifully restored townhouse. Their tasting menu showcases Cornwall’s finest ingredients, and couples often tell us this meal was the culinary highlight of their trip to Cornwall!

Don’t miss Prawn on the Lawn for ultra-fresh small plates of seafood in a relaxed setting, or Greens of Padstow for spectacular harbour views. End your evening with artisanal ice cream as you stroll along the quay, reminiscing about your day’s adventures together.   

Vineyard Guided Tours & Wine Tasting

Did you know that Cornwall isn’t just about cider and ale – we produce award-winning wines too! Our tropical climate is a winning combination for Cornish vineyards, and the resulting wine scene has blossomed into something truly special for couples to explore.

Camel Valley Vineyard, just a short drive from Padstow, offers tours and tastings with views so spectacular you’ll be forgiven for momentarily ignoring your wine glass. The tour takes you through the sun-drenched vineyards before settling down for a tasting on their terrace overlooking the valley – the perfect setting for toasting to your Cornish adventure.

For something a little different, nearby Trevibban Mill combines organic wines with apple cider, all set in stunning countryside. Their “Wine and Wander” experience lets you stroll through the vines with a glass in hand – romance doesn’t get much better than that!  

Hidden Gem Restaurants for Couples

While everyone knows Padstow’s famous eateries, Cornwall hides some incredible restaurants with sea views that complement their menus perfectly.  

The Hidden Hut on Porthcurnick Beach near Portscatho looks unassuming from the outside – a simple beach café – until you try their food and realise you’ve stumbled upon culinary gold. Their legendary feast nights sell out in minutes, where long tables are set up on the beach and guests enjoy spectacular fresh-cooked feasts as the sun sets. Book months in advance or try your luck with their daytime offering, which is equally delicious if slightly less exclusive.

Seafood lovers should seek out The Mussel Shoal in Porthleven – the café kiosk on the quay serves French bistro-style food, including moules-frites, but the real fun part is that diners can book to be taken out to eat on a pontoon in the harbour for a dramatic dining experience on the sea. What’s more romantic than that?

If you want to take your romance inland, why not try Olive & Co at Siblyback Lake after a bracing stomp on Bodmin Moor? It’s enough to have a café on the banks of this beautiful lake, but that the café serves up award-winning breakfasts and lunches makes it even more special. We love the cosy vibe and gentle jazz playing in the background too. 

Unusual Things to Do in Cornwall for Couples

Cornwall has a treasure trove of wonderfully weird and unconventional activities perfect for couples seeking something beyond the ordinary beach day. Here are our favourite offbeat adventures that are guaranteed conversation starters for years to come.

Cast a Spell in the Museum of Witchcraft & Magic

Embrace the magical vibes at Cornwall’s famous Museum of Witchcraft & Magic – possibly the most enchanting (and occasionally eyebrow-raising) museum in Britain! Nestled in a picturesque harbour village of Boscastle, this unique collection houses over 3,000 objects related to witchcraft, folk magic, and the occult. Wander hand-in-hand through displays of spell books, potions and charms.  

For a truly unique couples’ experience, time your visit to coincide with one of their workshops or talks. Learning palmistry together creates an excellent excuse for prolonged hand-holding, while tarot card readings for couples often result in fits of laughter or meaningful glances, depending on what the cards reveal.  

Ghost Hunt at the Jamaica Inn

If you’re the kind of couple who enjoys a touch of the spooky, then a night at the notoriously haunted Jamaica Inn might just be your perfect date night.

Made famous by Daphne du Maurier’s smuggling novel of the same name, this brooding 18th-century coaching inn on Bodmin Moor is a unique experience for couples brave enough to stay there. From the ghost of a murdered smuggler who paces the courtyard to mysterious footsteps in empty corridors, there’s enough spooky atmosphere to ensure you’ll be cuddling extra close throughout the night.

Fly Over the Jungle at Eden

Ready to take your relationship to new heights – quite literally? St Austell’s Eden Project is home to England’s longest and fastest zip wire! 

The SkyWire lets you soar 660 metres across the entire Eden site, dangling 100 metres above the iconic biomes at speeds of up to 60mph. There’s something uniquely bonding about watching your normally composed partner transform into a screaming tornado of emotions as they whiz through the air.  

For couples seeking slightly less terrifying thrills, Eden also offers various events throughout the year, including enchanting light installations, ice skating and world-class music performances. Eden also hosts the annual “Sleep Out” event, where couples can spend the night in the Mediterranean Biome under the stars, all in aid of an excellent cause.  

Final Thoughts: Creating Your Own Cornish Love Story

As the sun sets over Padstow harbour and our boats return from their final sealife safari of the day, we’re reminded that Cornwall’s magic isn’t just in its breathtaking landscapes or extraordinary wildlife – it’s in the moments shared between two people discovering them together. 

Whether you’ve been spotting dolphins with us in the morning, dining on a floating pontoon at lunch, hunting ghosts at Jamaica Inn by evening, or simply holding hands on a coastal path, Cornwall weaves itself into your relationship’s tapestry in ways that last long after your tan fades. 

As you plan your journey home, you’ll find yourselves already plotting your return, with a list of missed experiences to try next time. We can’t wait to welcome you both back!

FAQs – Best Things to Do in Cornwall for Couples