If you’re planning your Cornwall staycation, we won’t blame you for getting swept up in the excitement of visiting some of the region’s most popular and celebrated destinations. From exploring the world-famous biomes at the Eden Project, to visiting one of the UK’s most iconic surfing beaches (Fistral), there’s a reason these spots regularly hit the headlines.

But what about the side of Cornwall you don’t always see? Here, we’ve pulled together some lesser-known local favourites, and how to embrace what living like a local is really all about.

Off-the-beaten track

One of the best ways to find Cornwall’s most beautiful slices of coast is by getting your walking boots on and hitting the South West Coast Path.

While the path is an attraction in its own right, the reality is that, once you’re on it, you can access beaches that can’t be easily reached by car. That means more space to spread out and enjoy the sand under your toes!

One of our favourite local spots includes Polly Joke. Tucked between Crantock and Holywell Bay, the half-mile walk to it means it gets fewer visitors than some of the more central Newquay beaches, and it’s dog-friendly year-round. In early summer, head here to see the hillsides covered in vibrant red poppies.

Shop like a local

We know it’s easy to get suckered into the home comforts of chain restaurants and shops when you’re away, but Cornwall is often celebrated for its array of boutique, artisan and independent businesses.

With this in mind, set yourself a challenge to only shop and eat local on your visit. Packing a picnic? Head to the local deli for proper Cornish cheeses and homemade sausages rolls (for a Middle Eastern twist, try Sabzi’s in Truro). Likewise, if you’ve accidentally left your toothbrush at home, The Good Lyfe in Newquay offers some great quality eco hygiene and dental products.

With so much on our doorstep, you’ll have no need to pop into a supermarket!

Eat like a local

We know it goes without saying that Cornwall is a foodie’s dream, and every independent restaurant you support goes straight back into supporting local businesses and local people.

Whether you’re eating in our cosy country pub here at The Plume, or looking for that touch of coastal glamour with cliff-side dining (our sister venue, Lewinnick Lodge, can help with that, too!), there’s plenty to tuck into.

If you’re staying with us, forget TripAdvisor – just ask our crew for their favourite local recommendations, and we promise they won’t steer you wrong.

Outdoor adventures

While Cornwall is no doubt a hub for surfers and surf culture, you don’t necessarily have to spend the week practising your pop-up in the hopes of catching a wave. Locals know there are also many other ways to enjoy the incredible ocean on our doorstep, and you can leave the board at home!

If you’re brave, go sans-wetsuit and jump in for an early morning swim (as long as you’re a confident and strong swimmer). Head west, and you’ll find an incredible community of regular sea swimmers at Penzance’s Battery Rocks (behind Jubilee Pool), or make the most of high tide at Newquay Harbour.

Many visitors are also surprised to find out that Cornwall’s underwater world is just as magical as the landscape around us. In fact, places like Castle Beach in Falmouth are hotspots for snorkel enthusiasts, where you can enjoy shallow waters and find incredible marine life hiding within the rocky reefs.

Book your stay at The Plume of Feathers

We know it’s not easy to dive into local culture in just a few days (or even a week), but, here at The Plume, we’ll help you enjoy your stay like it’s your own home-from-home.

From helping with the local lingo (if someone tells you they’ll get something done ‘dreckly’, it means when they’re good and ready!), to off-guide beach recommendations, we’ve got you covered.

Once you’re done exploring, switch off in our cosy bar with a well-deserved pint or plate. Our team showcases the finest, seasonal ingredients sourced from local suppliers – all for that authentic Cornish experience.

With our stylish suites over the courtyard from the pub, you can then snuggle between Egyptian cotton sheets, or soak away the day in a free-standing bath.

Book your stay today and start planning your Cornwall staycation.

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How to live like a local on your Cornwall staycation