Sunfish

Four-bedroom cottage above Porthtowan, the north-coast surf village 4 miles north-west of Truro. Sunfish sleeps 8 across four bedrooms, with an enclosed rear garden, BBQ, and the South West Coast Path running past the door. Dogs welcome.

The cottage spans two floors with two bathrooms, a dishwasher, and a washing machine. The garden is fully enclosed - useful for dogs and small kids - with garden furniture and a barbecue. No on-site parking, so use the village car park 200 metres down the hill. Sea views are partial, looking out toward the cliffs above the beach rather than directly down on the sand. Reviews average 5 stars across 14 stays.

Porthtowan beach itself is sand-backed and lifeguarded in summer, with a surf school and bodyboard hire on the sand. Dogs are allowed off the beach 1 October to Easter, and before 8am or after 7pm in summer. The Blue Bar sits on the clifftop above. Walk south for two miles to Chapel Porth and the Wheal Coates engine houses; north for 3 miles to Portreath. St Agnes is 4 miles east, with the Driftwood Spars Brewery and Trevaunance Cove.

Best for two families sharing, dog owners, and walkers who want the coast path at the door. Less good for guests who need on-site parking or a direct sea view.