Things to Do in Cornwall for Couples

Days out in Cornwall that foster genuine connection

5 Romantic Hidden Gems in Cornwall (That Locals Quietly Love)

At Cedar & Cove, we are blessed to call Cornwall our home. With staycations, romantic getaways, and a myriad of places to explore, Cornwall has something to offer everybody. But it can also be elusive and changeable, with each destination embodying its own unique feeling, or ‘vibe’, regardless of its size or proximity to civilisation.

In short, it hasn’t always been easy for us to find the hidden gems that make living here truly remarkable — and there are still so many more to discover. It’s certainly been a trial-and-error process, from walking the least spectacular section of the South West Coast Path from Polkerris to Carlyon in the middle of a cold, dark winter, to discovering a rare and beautiful pub gem on the way to an impromptu trip to Mevagissey.

Cornwall — and South Cornwall in particular — requires an explorer’s heart. But hasn’t it always? With a cove around every corner hinting at its smuggling history, and views that take your breath away regardless of the weather, every step, backpack packed and beer chilled, is a worthy effort in discovering this beautiful, sea-laden land.

So, let’s get into it, shall we?

Introducing: Things to Do in Cornwall for Couples

Be warned — this list requires a few essential (and mutual!) loves: exploring, pub grub, and steep (and somewhat treacherous) climbs. We believe it also represents the best of what South Cornwall offers. But don’t take our word for it — get out and see these places for yourself.

We now present to you an abundance of locals’ secrets — for better or worse — Kernow, forgive us!

1: Porthpean Golf Club, near St. Austell

No, you don’t need to be a golf pro for this one. However, it does require at least one individual with a passion and aptitude for golf, and an open-minded, nature-loving partner to match. And why is it number one on our list? The views are absolutely beautiful. It’s also one of our favourite places to visit on early Sunday evenings, with the café offering reasonably priced cakes and coffees, too.

The golf course itself offers two unique settings: the front nine holes are set in parkland, and the back nine overlook St. Austell Bay. Even on a slightly overcast day, you’ll enjoy a bounty of flowers, trees, and rolling waves. It’s a quiet sort of haven where time truly melts away — so long as you’re not too fazed by the odd shanked shot or lost golf ball! It’s also in a prime location for visiting Porthpean beach without paying an extortionate amount for parking.

Please note, this recommendation is not sponsored; it is purely provided to highlight a lesser-known attraction for couples in the St. Austell area.

You can learn more about Porthpean Golf Club here, and their price list can be accessed here. We recommend trying out their Twilight rate and opting for a 9-hole game. The course also offers an excellent putting green for those wanting to experience golf without the frustration of making it down a fairway! It’s a great opportunity to practise the meditative aspect of golf in a gentle, enjoyable way.

2: The Longstore, Charlestown

Next up is the ultimate date night restaurant. With over 1,000 reviews on Google, it’s hardly a well-kept secret — but it’s made the list purely on merit. And oh boy, has it earned it.

Set in a beautiful, airy location, we stumbled across The Longstore by accident. The restaurant is clean, modern, and alluring, and appeals to those seeking a relaxed, intimate setting. While we didn’t hold a reservation at the time of dining, we were seated immediately at a cosy table for two. Please note this was likely due to the time of year — we now strongly advise pre-booking as we enter the busy summer season!

The food was delicious, and the music had more of a downtown, smoky aesthetic, making it the perfect escape from the otherwise charming array of traditional pubs we are prone to frequenting. The atmosphere is lively without being too loud, and it’s a perfect spot for couples, friends, and families alike. But in the spirit of this couples-focused post, why not treat yourself to a date night with someone special? Just remember to try the Ricotta Doughnuts — and let us know what you think!

3: Lantic Bay, near Polruan

Hurry down to Lantic Bay before the summer season kicks off in full swing. It’s lush, overflowing with flowers and interesting rock formations, and has some of the clearest, most inviting water on the South Coast for swimming. We recently spent an entire day here, just soaking up the sun and capturing the beauty of nature — before the encroaching tide nudged us back up the hill home. Be warned: the path down is a little treacherous, and we wouldn’t recommend attempting it on a particularly wet or windy day.

If you’re a National Trust member, you can park in the designated car park for free. Just be mindful to check yourself and any pets for ticks (seasonally, from March to October), as much of the initial route takes you through long meadow grasses.

Lantic Bay is perfect for couples who seek adventure but don’t want to stray too far from home. It’s a taste of the North Coast on the South Coast — and a beautiful location to catch an otherworldly sunset. It’s also just a short ferry journey and drive from Fowey, or easily reachable for those in the Looe area.

4: The Rashleigh Inn, Polkerris

Popular with locals and visitors alike, The Rashleigh Inn describes itself as a “beachside country pub/restaurant serving real ale and local produce with international influences.” Again, it’s hardly a well-kept secret, but it can easily become a quaint and quiet haunt, depending on the time of year you go.

If you visit during the autumn or winter months, stop by and try The Rashleigh Inn’s Fish & Chip Friday deal. For £15, you’re guaranteed a quality portion of fish with an equally generous — and refreshing — drink to match. It’s a no-brainer for those seeking a winter warmer and a decent pint, and an excellent little pub for a more rustic and homely date night.

Alternatively, you can also drop by in the middle of the day for a simple coffee and play one of their many board games, while overlooking either a serene or stormy sea.

It’s a delightful little gem that will keep you coming back again and again. As an added bonus, you can park behind the pub for free (just mention your number plate at the bar and say hello to Tommy), or park in the main Polkerris car park for free after 6 p.m. If you visit the beach afterwards, please be mindful of tide times to avoid getting cut off due to limited access/exit points.

5: Gribbin Head (via the South West Coast Path)

Last but not least, we offer you a hidden gem in the heart of Fowey — or close to it, at least. We present to you Gribbin Head like never before...

While the gigantic hill leading up to Gribbin Head from Fowey might look appealing to the dedicated walker, forgo it and instead take the South West Coast Path route from Polridmouth Cove towards Gribbin Head. Watch as clover-strewn forests, sea stacks, and arches emerge.

It’s a small section of the Coast Path, but it arguably contains the most beautiful views in the immediate area. Tall cliffs rise out of seemingly nowhere, revealing nesting birds, wild waves, and golden flowers glowing in the afternoon sun. Paths wind into forests equally filled and intertwined with life.

It’s a very romantic walk — perfect for couples looking to discover hidden beauty nestled along the South Cornish coast. It meets every personal criterion for our “Things to Do in Cornwall for Couples” list. You’ll also pass some beautiful beaches, one of which reveals an old shipwreck at low tide.

Compared to the Lantic Bay route, it’s calm, relaxed, and doesn’t require strenuous effort. It’s also ideal for a morning or evening walk with the dog — or even as a solo walk for those seeking peace and quiet in nature. Check it out and see what you think!

Conclusion: Couples in Cornwall & Days Out That Foster Genuine Connection

Finding things to do as a couple in Cornwall is, of course, massively dependent on your schedules, interests, and passions. But thankfully, no matter where you are, Cornwall always offers the opportunity to discover somewhere — or something — new.

We hope our “Things to Do in Cornwall for Couples” list inspires you to explore more of the South Coast, whether with your partner, friends, family, or all of the above! It’s truly a fantastic place to explore and often yields you a wide variety of memories that are sure to last a lifetime.

If you liked this post, you can find more of our content at www.cedarcove.co.uk or on Instagram at @cedarcoveuk. Thank you for reading — and happy adventuring!