Sea Spray

Three-bedroom cottage in Port Isaac, sleeping 5 with 1 bathroom and an enclosed garden. Port Gaverne Beach is 200m away - a sheltered cove that holds sand at low tide and stays calm when the north Atlantic swell is running hard on the open headlands either side. It's a more practical beach for families than the main harbour at Port Isaac, where the water is deep and landing craft still share the slipway.

Inside, the cottage has wifi, a dishwasher, and a washing machine. Dogs are welcome. The layout suits a family or group of three friends who want a proper base in the village rather than an isolated rural property with a long drive for provisions.

Port Isaac sits on the north Cornish coast between Wadebridge and Tintagel. The Platt - the flat quayside area around the harbour - is a 5-minute walk for fresh crab, fish and chips, or a pint at the Golden Lion. The South West Coast Path passes through the village, with cliff walking north toward Trebarwith and south toward Polzeath. Polzeath Beach is about 7 miles by road and one of the north coast's best surf beaches. Tregardock Beach is 5.2km - wild, tidal, and only accessible on foot. Visit Port Isaac for the full area guide.

Best for: families or dog owners wanting a village cottage with a sheltered beach on the doorstep. Less good for: those expecting sea views - the cottage faces into the village rather than the water.