When is May Half Term 2026? This year, the school break runs from Monday 25th May to Friday 29th May. Factoring in the weekends, it gives you a clear window from Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st May to escape to the coast.

May half term is the sweet spot in North Cornwall. The days are stretching out, the sea is beginning to warm up, and the summer crowds haven’t quite arrived yet. It is the perfect time to pack the car, head to the coast, and shake off the last of the spring chill.

Whether your family leans towards high-energy water sports or quiet afternoons watching the tide roll in, North Cornwall offers a brilliant mix of both. Here is our insider guide to making the most of your May getaway.

Surfing Lessons and Water Skiing near Polzeath

Whether your family leans towards high-energy water sports or quiet afternoons watching the tide roll in, North Cornwall offers brilliant ways to get out on the water. For the best local experiences, we highly recommends:

• George’s Surf School (Polzeath): Polzeath is famous for its consistent surf, making it an ideal spot to improve your technique. George’s specialises in private coaching rather than crowded group lessons. Their instructors focus on building water confidence and technical skills in a relaxed environment, perfect for both young beginners and seasoned surfers refining their cutbacks.
• Wavehunters (Rock, Padstow, Port Isaac & Polzeath): Right on Polzeath beach, their surf school provides fantastic lessons and board hire to get you straight into the break. 
• Camel Ski School (Rock): As the UK’s largest waterski centre, they offer an amazing setup right on the pontoon. 

1. Discover the Coastline with Wavehunters

If you want to experience the dramatic beauty of the coastline from a different perspective, Wavehunters is essential. Operating out of Rock, Padstow, and Polzeath, they offer exceptional marine safaris.

Their powerful RIB boats take you out past the Camel Estuary to explore hidden coves, rugged cliffs, and open water. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife; it is incredibly common to spot grey seals bobbing in the water, pods of dolphins playing in the boat’s wake, and a huge variety of seabirds. It is a fantastic, wind-in-your-hair experience that the whole family will remember.

2. High-Speed Fun on the Camel Estuary

For a different kind of water-based thrill, head over to the sheltered waters of the Camel Estuary and visit the Camel Ski School. 

Older kids and teenagers will love the wake boarding and water-skiing sessions, while their inflatable banana boat rides guarantee a lot of shouting and falling in. If you prefer something a little slower-paced, they also offer stand-up paddleboard hire, allowing you to quietly navigate the estuary and take in the views across to Padstow.

3. Coastal Walks & Cornish History

If you want to trade the surfboard for ancient footpaths or historic estates, this stretch of the coast has plenty to offer.

• Pentire Head & The Rumps (National Trust): You do not even need to get in the car for this one. Overlooking Polzeath, the Pentire headland provides some of the most striking coastal walks in the county. Follow the paths out to the Iron Age fort remains at The Rumps, and look out for peregrine falcons above and seals in the water below.
• Lanhydrock (National Trust): Located just inland near Bodmin, this grand Victorian country house is set within 1,000 acres of parkland and woods. It is a brilliant option for an active family day out, featuring miles of dedicated, off-road cycling trails and a fantastic café for when everyone needs a break and a slice of cake.
• Tintagel Castle (English Heritage): A short drive north brings you to these dramatic ruins perched high on the cliffs. Linked to the legends of King Arthur, the site features a spectacular suspension bridge crossing over to the island. Time your visit for low tide so you can walk down to the beach and find Merlin’s Cave. 

4. Keep It Effortless at The Point

The beauty of a holiday in North Cornwall is the landscape, but the reality of travelling with a family means you also need moments of total ease. When you stay with us at The Point, those quiet days are built right in.

If the weather turns, or you simply need a break from the sand, our facilities are right on your doorstep.

• Active Mornings: Book a tennis or padel court to burn off some energy, or head out for a round on our 18-hole golf course while taking in the views toward Pentire Point.
• Rainy Day Rescues: Our indoor health club and heated pool mean the kids can still swim even if the Cornish weather decides to be unpredictable.
• Evenings at The Bear: After a long day of salt and sun, there is no need to fight for a parking space or a dinner reservation down in the village. Walk over to The Bear Bar for local Cornish produce, great drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere, all with a view of the sun setting over the Atlantic.

Ready to plan your escape? Browse our collection of self-catering properties and secure your May half-term break today.

Image Credits: Camel Ski School | Wave Hunters