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When the sun shines in Cornwall, there are few better places to be. With golden beaches, sea views, coastal walks and beautiful harbour towns, warm weather can make a Cornish holiday feel extra special.
That said, during periods of very hot weather, it is important to take a little extra care. Whether you are heading to the beach, exploring St Ives, visiting Hayle, or enjoying time around St Ives Bay, a few simple precautions can help you stay comfortable and make the most of your break.
One of the advantages of being by the coast is that Cornwall can often feel a little fresher than many inland parts of the country.
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and exposed to sea breezes, coastal areas can sometimes avoid the most intense heat experienced further inland. The sea warms and cools more slowly than land, which can help moderate temperatures around the coast. A light onshore breeze can also make beach days, coastal cafés and evening walks feel more comfortable than built-up inland towns during hot spells.
However, it is still possible for Cornwall to become very warm, especially during heatwaves. Strong sunshine, high humidity and sheltered spots away from the breeze can still feel hot, so it is sensible to plan your days carefully.
During very warm weather, the best times to get out and about are usually early morning and later in the evening.
A morning walk along the beach, a gentle stroll around the harbour, or an evening visit to watch the sunset can be far more enjoyable than heading out during the hottest part of the day.
If you are planning coastal walks, beach games or more active days out, try to avoid the peak heat between late morning and mid-afternoon. Instead, use this time to relax indoors, enjoy a shaded café, visit a local attraction or take a slower pace.
Cornwall has plenty to offer away from direct sunshine. On especially hot days, consider planning a few indoor or shaded activities, such as:
The Eden Project is also a fantastic day out, although visitors should remember that the tropical biome can feel very warm and humid during hot weather. Take your time, drink plenty of water, and make use of the cafés, shaded areas and cooler parts of the site.
It sounds simple, but drinking enough water is one of the most important ways to cope with hot weather.
Carry water with you when you go out, especially if you are visiting the beach, walking the coast path, or spending time away from shops and cafés. Children, older visitors and pets may need extra care, as they can be more affected by heat.
It is also worth limiting too much alcohol during the hottest part of the day, as it can make dehydration worse.
Many traditional Cornish properties are designed to cope well with changing weather, but during a heatwave it still helps to manage the indoor temperature.
To keep your holiday accommodation cooler:
A little planning can make evenings and nights much more comfortable.
The sea can be very inviting during hot weather, but it is important to take care.
Choose lifeguarded beaches where possible and always follow local safety advice. Even on hot days, sea temperatures can be much cooler than expected, and conditions can change quickly.
Take shade with you if you are spending a long time on the sand, use sun cream regularly, and avoid leaving children or pets exposed to direct sun for long periods.
Dogs and other pets can overheat quickly in warm weather. Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening, avoid hot pavements, and always provide plenty of fresh water.
Most importantly, never leave pets in cars, even for a short time. Cars can become dangerously hot very quickly, even with the windows slightly open.
Hot weather is a good reminder to slow down and enjoy Cornwall gently. You do not need to fill every hour of the day with activity.
A shaded garden, a sea-view balcony, a quiet café, an evening paddle, or a sunset over St Ives Bay can be just as memorable as a full day of exploring.
Cornwall’s coastal setting often gives it a naturally fresher feel than many inland locations, but during very warm spells it is still important to stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan your days around the heat.
With a little care, you can enjoy the best of the sunshine while staying comfortable and safe throughout your holiday.
