Cornwall Beaches Named Among UK’s Top Alternatives to Exotic Destinations

Published On: 4 June 2025Last Updated: 4 June 2025By CornishStuff

Porthcurno and Kynance Cove lead the list of UK alternatives to long-haul beach escapes

As the search for “best beaches” in the UK surges past 245,000 in the past month, and interest in “budget holidays” rises by 127%, holidaymakers are clearly eyeing up coastal breaks without the cost or hassle of travelling abroad.

To help travellers find affordable but beautiful options, Parkdean Resorts has released a list of five UK beaches that rival some of the most popular international destinations – and two of them are in Cornwall.

Porthcurno Beach – Cornwall’s answer to the Virgin Islands

Porth Curno Beautiful beach in the springtime in Cornwall, the south coast of England

Search interest in the Virgin Islands has jumped by 200% in the past week, thanks in part to stunning beaches like Cinnamon Bay. But for a slice of Caribbean-style scenery closer to home, Porthcurno Beach delivers.

Located on Cornwall’s south coast, Porthcurno is known for its fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs. The shape of the beach and its coves even mirror the look of the Virgin Islands’ shores. Whether you’re walking the coast path or just lying on the sand, it’s easy to see why this spot is a standout.

Parkdean Resorts is currently offering over 700 Cornwall breaks with up to 30% off, including short stays from £99 in June and from £109 in August.

Kynance Cove – A Cornish take on the Dominican Republic

Not for transmission or publication without express permission of the copyright owner, Simon Burt

The Dominican Republic’s Sosua Beach is famous for its striking horseshoe-shaped bay, white sands and blue waters. But Cornwall’s Kynance Cove, on the Lizard Peninsula, offers a near-identical experience without needing a passport.

Surrounded by dramatic serpentine cliffs and turquoise seas, Kynance is one of Cornwall’s most photographed beaches – and it’s just a short drive from Lizard Point Holiday Park. Breaks there start from £99 this June and from £109 in August as part of Parkdean’s Big Summer Sale.

Other UK beaches in the spotlight

Alongside Porthcurno and Kynance Cove, three other beaches from across the UK have been highlighted as great value alternatives to global hotspots:

Camber Sands, East Sussex – A sandy, dune-filled dupe for Nehalem Bay, Oregon. Perfect for families and cycling, with holiday park breaks from £119 in June.
Shell Bay Beach, Dorset – Compared to Carnon-Plage on the French Riviera, with four miles of golden sand. It’s just 30 minutes from Sandford Holiday Park, where over 150 breaks are discounted this June.
Dungeness Beach, Kent – With its pebbled terrain and wide, open views, it’s likened to Sunrise Crescent Bay, Taiwan. Nearby Romney Sands Holiday Park offers stays from £109 in June.