Easter in Cornwall offers a special blend of coastal beauty and spring time fun. The 2025 holiday, falling on 20th April, brings perfect spring weather to enjoy this stunning county's attractions.
Whether you're looking for family activities, peaceful walks along dramatic clifftops, or lively seaside towns, Cornwall delivers. The following list highlights the best things to do during your springtime visit to this magical corner of Britain.
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Iconic Beach Destinations
One of the most famous beaches in Cornwall is Kynance Cove, known for its turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic rock formations. Easter is a great time to explore the rock pools, as it's still a bit nippy to be swimming in the sea!
Another popular spot is Porthcurno Beach, which is nestled beneath the towering cliffs of the Minack Theatre and offers a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds.
For surfers, Fistral Beach in Newquay is a must-visit destination, as it is considered one of the best surfing spots in the UK.
Perranporth Beach, with its expansive stretch of golden sand and rolling dunes, is perfect for long walks and relaxation.
Lastly, St. Ives Bay, which encompasses several beaches like Porthmeor and Porthminster, is a haven for artists and beach lovers alike, offering a blend of cultural attractions and natural beauty.
These iconic beach destinations in Cornwall showcase the region's breathtaking landscapes and make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a quintessential British seaside experience.
Action-Packed Watersports
Cornwall is a surfer's paradise with world-class waves at numerous beaches. Newquay's Fistral Beach hosts excellent surf conditions and several professional surf schools offering Easter holiday packages.
For beginners, Hayle's three-mile golden beach provides gentler waves and expert instruction. The Hayle Surf School offers family packages with discounts for children aged 8-15 during the Easter break (April 18-21).
Don't worry about equipment. Most surf schools provide wetsuits and boards as part of their lesson fees.
Book at least two weeks in advance as Easter is particularly busy. Many schools also offer multi-day progressive courses if you're staying longer.
Sailing the Cornish Seas
Experience Cornwall from a different perspective by sailing its magnificent coastline. Falmouth offers excellent sailing conditions with a protected harbour and breathtaking views of historic maritime landscapes.
Beginner sailing courses run throughout Easter week at the Falmouth School of Sailing, with half-day taster sessions or full-day adventures. No experience is necessary as qualified instructors guide you through the basics.
For families, the Fowey Estuary provides sheltered waters ideal for learning.
Wildlife
Newquay Zoo transforms into a special Easter destination with its 130+ species spread across 13 acres of lush gardens. You'll find yourself face-to-face with rare lions, playful penguins, and cheeky monkeys during your visit.
The zoo organises Easter-themed animal feeding sessions where you can watch tigers, penguins and otters enjoy specially prepared treats. Children will love the Easter trail, available from 4-21 April, which combines wildlife education with holiday fun.
Don't miss the Madagascar area, home to lemurs that become particularly active during spring. The zoo's conservation talks run hourly between 11am-3pm, offering fascinating insights into wildlife protection efforts.
A Rainforest in Cornwall
The Eden Project's massive biomes create an otherworldly experience this Easter. You'll journey through diverse plant environments, from steamy rainforests to Mediterranean landscapes.
Special Easter activities run from 5-20 April, including the popular garden-wide egg hunt and pollinator workshops. The rainforest biome maintains temperatures around 18-35°C, providing a warm retreat should typical Cornish spring showers appear.
Spring brings spectacular blooming throughout the gardens too. The outdoor gardens showcase native Cornish plant species adapted to the coastal climate.
The Eden Project stays open until 6pm during Easter holidays, giving you extra time to explore the scenic pathways and unique plant collections.
Museum Visits for the Curious Minds
The Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro offers special Easter exhibitions featuring Cornish mining heritage and Celtic artefacts. You'll find interactive displays perfect for the whole family, with hands-on activities for children throughout the holiday period.
Penlee House Gallery & Museum in Penzance showcases the famous Newlyn School artists alongside archaeological treasures. Their Easter programme includes guided tours and art workshops inspired by Cornish traditions.
For maritime history enthusiasts, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth presents spectacular boat displays and tales of seafaring adventures. Join the Cornish Caretakers as they bring Cornish history to life in an informative and hilarious show ‘The Cornish Caretakers and the Treasures of Cornishness’. There will be Make & Take workshops and a Museum trail for families to join in with too.
The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle provides a uniquely Cornish experience with its collection of mystical artefacts. You can join special Easter tours exploring ancient Cornish folklore and spring traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cornwall in April has high daily temperatures of 12°C and lows of 7°C, the mild weather is perfect for a UK getaway.
The sea temperature in Cornwall during April can vary depending on the specific location and weather conditions. On average, the sea temperature in April ranges from 9°C to 11°C (48°F to 52°F).
