Five to try: beaches for families

Whether you want facilities for when you have toddlers in tow, or something more interesting for the under 10's - here are five family friendly beaches for you to try.

Sandcastle building at Gwithian, Hayle
Sometimes it’s the simpliest things that are most fun and nowhere is that more true than at Gwithian beach (nr Hayle/St Ives). Here the only must have is a bucket and spade. When the tide goes out miles of golden sand are revealed ripe for building castles - make them as elaborate as you like by adding a moat and digging a channel to the waters edge. Take inspiration from the surroundings and make a sand sculpture of Godrevy Lighthouse or battle the tide with a shoreline sandcastle contest - it's innocent fun at it's best!

Beachcombing at Talland Bay, Looe
Once a haunt of smugglers, today the beach at Talland Bay near Looe reveals a different kind of bounty in a treasure trove of colourful seashells, pretty pebbles and bits of driftwood. Take a stroll and fill your buckets with some coastal souvenirs to transform into works of art or quirky pieces of jewellery back at home.

Rockpooling at Towan Beach, Portscatho
As the tide ebbs away at Towan beach in Portscatho a world of rock pools is revealed, so get your fishing nets at the ready to explore what lurks beneath. Delve from one rock pool to another and discover the abundance of marine life which hides away in the tiny crevices. From darting fish and crawling crabs to eerie sea lemon and stuck-fast limpets, you never know what you will find amongst the seaweed and under stones. But remember to return your rockpool finds to their homes!

Ice-cream eating at Chapel Porth, St Agnes
Owned by the National Trust and tucked into a landscape rich in mining heritage with enigmatic buildings perched on the cliff tops above, Chapel Porth beach is popular among families. It is especially renowned for the ice creams at the little beach cafe. And these are no ordinary ice creams – they’re hedgehog ice creams! Indulgent treats piled high with ice cream, clotted cream and honey roasted hazelnuts. It’s what trips to the seaside are made for.

Facilities at Gyllygnvase Beach, Falmouth
Falmouth’s Blue Flag awarded beach of Gyllygnvase attracts families year-round for its great facilities. As well as a seasonal RNLI Lifeguard service it boasts beach volleyball, bouncy castle and the epitome of cool, a paddleboarding school where you can learn the art of this fun watersport. Away from the action, and Gylly beach doesn’t fail to deliver with its contemporary beach café, a favoured year-round hangout with a menu to match the amazing the views across to Pendennis Castle.