The 4 Best Cornwall alternatives for your Summer Staycation…

XploreReport
55 minutes ago
4 min read

Every summer, thousands flock to Cornwall for its rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside villages. And while we totally get the appeal, we also get the downside: crowded beaches, expensive accommodation, and traffic jams that could test even the most zen among us.

If you’re looking for Cornwall alternatives that offer all the stunning scenery with fewer crowds, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, coastal walker, wild swimmer, or just someone who wants to enjoy their ice cream without being shoulder-to-shoulder with every tourist in the UK, these four spots are worthy contenders.

1. Pembrokeshire, Wales

For dramatic coastal walks and hidden coves

When it comes to UK coastal holidays, Pembrokeshire often flies under the radar—until you see it. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the UK’s only coastal national park and is packed with natural drama: towering cliffs, golden beaches, and panoramic walking trails. The water clarity and coastal features of Pembrokeshire resemble that of Cornwall, it’s arguably the most similar place to Cornwall and is definitely a great alternative.

Must-See Spots:

Barafundle Bay – frequently ranked among the best clear water beaches in the UK
Tenby – pastel-hued harbour town with great food and beach vibes
Pembrokeshire Coast Path – 186 miles of breathtaking sea views and wildlife
Blue Lagoon

The dramatic Pembrokeshire coastline captured by drone

2. NC500, Scotland

For road trip lovers and those chasing raw, untouched beauty

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s answer to Route 66—a 516-mile loop around the northern Highlands with untamed coastal beauty, hidden beaches, and windswept cliffs. There’s a reason why it’s dubbed as one of the UK’s most scenic road trips! We understand that the NC 500 covers a vast amount of Scotland and that’s what makes it ideal for a road trip however, you can stay in one location and visit a section of it for a more relaxed holiday. You would still see so much due to the magnitude of natural beauty the NC 500 has to offer! The NC 500 is a great alternative to Cornwall and many would argue it’s actually better, you’ll find clear waters, dramatic scenery, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to match anywhere else in the UK.

Must-See Stops:

Achmelvich Bay – white sands and turquoise waters that look Caribbean
Duncansby Stacks – wild sea stacks east of John o’ Groats
Bealach na Bà – a scenic mountain pass with epic photo opportunities

The tranquil Achmelvich bay, voted one of the best beaches in Europe

3. Devon, England

For laid-back beach days and charming coastal towns

With two coastlines, historic villages, and surf-ready beaches, Devon delivers all the charm of Cornwall—minus the gridlock. Similar to Cornwall, Devon’s North coast is home to some of the best surf in the UK, alternatively the south coast of Devon boasts tranquil hidden coves, alongside charming harbour side villages. Devon is also home to one of the UK’s best National Parks - Dartmoor, the home of ancient rainforests, stargazing, waterfalls, wild swimming and some of the most magnificent views in the UK! North of Dartmoor you will also find Exmoor which is another National Park with a lot to offer! Experience the historic water powered cliff railway linking the beautiful towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. Travel just around the corner and surround yourself amongst the jaw-dropping Valley of the Rocks!

Must-See Spots:

Woolacombe Beach – perfect for families and surfers alike
Salcombe – upscale coastal town with boutique shops and sailing vibes
Dartmoor National Park – wild moors and peaceful escapes from the beach
Lynton & Lynmouth - two charming coastal villages connected via a historic cliff railway.
Valley of the Rocks - Dramatic coastal views

The Valley of the Rocks overlooking the dramatic North Devon Coast

4. Dorset, England

For fossil hunting, natural wonders, and picture-perfect coastal views

Home to the iconic Jurassic Coast, Dorset blends stunning natural formations with beach holiday vibes and historic significance.

Must-See Spots:

Durdle Door – the most iconic arch in the UK.
Lulworth Cove – crystal-clear waters in a natural amphitheatre. While both Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are listed among Dorset’s Must-See places, they are both tourist hot spots and should be avoided during peak times if you are trying to avoid the crowds! If you go in the evening they are much more peaceful!
Charmouth – perfect for fossil hunting with the family
Sandbanks – enjoy the soft sands and relaxed beach vibes after a busy day exploring Bournemouth.

Honourable mentions:

Isles of Scilly

We understand the Isles of Scilly is officially a part of Cornwall, however due to being remote it is not a typical Cornish Staycation! It is much more peaceful due to the necessity to reach the isles via ferry, boat, plane or helicopter! The beaches are some of the best in the UK, but to witness the Isles of Scilly you will have to pay a premium due to the access and demand for accommodation on the small islands.

Channel Islands - Guernsey and Jersey

Again the Channel Islands both require paying extra to get there as they are situated closer to France than Mainland Britain! Despite the extra costs it rivals a trip to Cornwall due to its variety of stunning beaches and beautiful landscape minus the crowds!

Final Thoughts:

We love Cornwall—we really do. But if you’re tired of the crowds, high prices, and jam-packed car parks, there are plenty of UK summer destinations that deliver just as much wow-factor.

From the clear waters of Pembrokeshire to the wild coastlines of the NC500, and the familiar-but-refreshing vibes of Devon and Dorset, these Cornwall alternatives offer everything you’re looking for in a UK staycation—just without the hassle.

So this summer, try something new. Swap the Cornish chaos for a quieter corner of coastal Britain—your sanity (and your photos) will thank you.

Want more ideas for UK staycations and hidden gems?