Salt Life, Dunes at Upton Towans

Salt Life is a two-bedroom beach house at Upton Towans, within the Gwithian Towans sand dune nature reserve near Hayle, sleeping four. The timber-framed structure was built with sustainability as a priority: air source heat pumps, underfloor heating throughout, and local materials. Large sliding doors at the rear open onto a south-facing terrace with a hot tub and dining table.

Gwithian Towans beach is 1.1 miles through the dunes - three miles of Atlantic-facing sand that runs north to Godrevy Point. The surf here is consistent and the beach rarely feels crowded away from July and August. Godrevy beach and its offshore lighthouse are 2 miles further along the coast path. Both are dog-friendly year-round.

St Ives is about 4 miles west by car and worth a half-day for the Tate St Ives and Porthmeor Beach. Hayle town centre is 2 miles east, with the usual supermarkets and a good independent bakery. The property has parking, Wi-Fi, a dishwasher, and washing machine.

Best for couples or small families who want a base that combines surf beach access with a hot tub and eco credentials. Less good for anyone expecting to walk directly onto the sand - the 1.1 miles dune path is part of the experience, not a shortcut.