Ocean Gem

Ocean Gem is a duplex penthouse at Compass Point Apartments in Carbis Bay, sleeping 4 across two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The apartment spans two floors, with the upper level opening onto a seaward-facing balcony - the standout feature in an area where balcony access at this price bracket is not a given. A private garage comes with the cottage, which matters in Carbis Bay where street parking along Boskerris Road gets tight in summer.

The two bedrooms and two bathrooms suit a couple with two children or two couples sharing. The kitchen has a dishwasher and the apartment includes wifi throughout. There is no washing machine, so factor in laundry if you're staying more than a week. Changeover day is Saturday.

Carbis Bay beach is 200 metres from the door - a 500-metre arc of pale sand with Blue Flag status and seasonal lifeguard cover. The beach café is open in season. For St Ives, the branch line rail halt is a short walk and puts you in the town centre in under 5 minutes; St Ives is also 25 minutes on foot along the South West Coast Path. Porthkidney Beach, a quieter stretch of sand, is 1.7km along the coast.

Best for couples or small families who want a proper sea-view base without the full hotel price. Less good for guests wanting a washing machine or those bringing a dog, as Ocean Gem is not pet-friendly.