Pentewan Sands is one of Cornwall's most popular family campsites, and for good reason. Tucked into a sheltered valley between St Austell and Mevagissey, it sits directly behind its own private beach — a rare thing for a campsite anywhere in the UK. The combination of a sheltered, wooded setting and direct beach access makes it one of the most comfortable and convenient camping destinations in the South West.

Location

Pentewan is located on the south Cornish coast, about 4 miles south of St Austell and a short drive from Mevagissey. The Lost Gardens of Heligan are around 10 minutes away, and the Eden Project is about 20 minutes. The south coast setting means the weather is generally milder and more sheltered than the exposed north coast sites around Newquay.

The Pitches

Pitches range from grass touring pitches to electric hook-up and hardstanding options. The site is large but well-organised, with some pitches very close to the beach and others set further back in the valley. The sheltered position means wind is rarely an issue, making it one of the more forgiving sites for tent choice. That said, the south coast can still deliver rain, so waterproofing matters.

Facilities

Facilities are comprehensive — heated pools, a bar and restaurant, a well-stocked shop, laundry facilities, and clean shower blocks. The private beach is the standout feature, with direct access from the site and a calm, sheltered bay that's excellent for families with younger children and paddlers.

What Tent Works Best at Pentewan

The sheltered valley setting gives you more flexibility on tent choice than exposed north coast sites. Larger tunnel tents work particularly well here as there's generally enough space and the wind loading is lower. Our recommendations:

• Kampa Saunton 6 Air — spacious tunnel tent with large canopy, ideal for longer stays in a sheltered setting
• Outdoor Revolution Airedale 7.0S — 7-person, 6,000mm HH, excellent for larger families
• Vango Savannah Air 600XL — fast pitching, great value, includes footprint

What to Pack

• Beach kit — the private beach is the main event; paddleboards and kayaks are popular
• A camping airer — beach towels and wetsuits need drying daily
• Fabsil waterproofer — south coast rain is gentler but still real
• A good camp kitchen setup — the site has a restaurant but self-catering is easy here

Nearest Beach & Attractions

The site's own private beach is the main draw — calm, sheltered, and excellent for families. Mevagissey harbour is a short drive and worth a visit for fresh fish and chips. The Lost Gardens of Heligan and Eden Project are both within easy reach for a day out.

Verdict

Pentewan Sands is one of the best all-round family campsites in Cornwall. The combination of a sheltered setting, private beach, and good facilities makes it an easy choice for families who want comfort and convenience without sacrificing the camping experience. Book early — it fills up fast in peak season.

Browse our Cornwall Camping Essentials collection or visit our showroom at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ. Call us on 01637 877619.