May is the perfect time to visit Cornwall, late enough into the year that the summer sun is beginning to take hold. Wonderful sunsets, BBQ’s on the beach, taking a dip in the sea, sand between your toes, rugged cliffs and wild waves: Cornwall doesn't get much better than this.
There is always lots to see and do in Cornwall and you are sure of a very warm welcome. This year (2023) we have an extra bank holiday due to the coronation of King Charles III, along with the traditional Spring bank holidays and the start of the school half term holidays, it’s the ideal time to visit. So bank holidays this year (2023) are May 1st. May 8th (Coronation) and May 29th. The half term school holiday then runs from 29th May (Monday) to 2nd June (Friday). As a family we have had some fantastic times staying in Cornwall in May, including spending many a sunny day on the beach. So………. 

1. Looking out to Sea from Polly Joke Beach

Looking out to sea from Polly Joke Beach (Picture Credit – Cornish Holiday)
Here are a few reasons to visit Cornwall during May If you have children that are school age, take advantage of the Bank Holidays and half term holiday. If you don’t have children and like to avoid the school holidays the weather can be warm and sunny with blue skies and free from the crowds you might find in the summer. If you fancy a dip in the sea, the sea is starting to heat up and retain some of the warmth we have come to expect in the summer, typically around 13.5°C (56.3°F). If you love nature and wildlife, there is an abundance in Cornwall, you may be lucky enough to see a Seal bobbing offshore or sunning itself on the sand, a pod of dolphins putting on a magnificent display or the Cornish Chough flying along the cliff edge. Gardens are a plenty in Cornwall, you really are spoilt for choice. Trebah, Glendurgan, Trelissick to name just a few and not forgetting the famous Lost Gardens of Heligan. National Trust properties and world famous visitor attractions are a must to visit, the likes of The Eden Project or St Michaels Mount. They really mustn’t be missed. Do you love your Art? If so then again Cornwall has lots to offer, not only does it have Art exhibitions and Showcases throughout the year but you can also visit Tate St Ives or the Barbera Hepworth Sculptures in St Ives. Explore the rugged coast and find a hidden beach. The likes of Nanjizal Beach, Pedn Vounder Beach, Lantic Bay and Bosahan Cove. Drive a scenic route along the coast. Travel from the small village of Zennor, near St Ives, and treat yourself to the stretch of road that winds towards Sennen. Rivalling many great drives from around the world, enjoy the sweeping views across the west Cornish coast and beyond, take your time with this journey and enjoy the view. The road quite literally hugs the remote coastline and cliffs. With every twist and turn, the view just keeps getting better and better until reaching Sennen where you can take in the view of the famous Longships lighthouse.
Sitting above Polly Joke BeachEnjoying the view over Polly Joke Beach (Picture Credit – Cornish Holiday)

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The rocks at St Mawes. The Rocks at St Mawes (Picture Credit – Cornish Holiday)
Cornwall is fantastic any time of year and it always offers something different and special depending upon the season. But the month of May is often an overlooked time, not considered part of the summer and too late for the freshness of Winter and excitement of Christmas. But, we can tell you from experience it really is a wonderful time to visit and stay in Cornwall. If you get the chance try to stay in May, even if its only for a few days and see for yourself, we are confident you will not only be surprised but have a wonderful time.

Looking at Place House opposite St Mawes in Cornwall. Looking at Place House opposite St Mawes (Picture Credit – Cornish Holiday)