How to Get on the Water in Fowey This Summer

On a still summer morning, the estuary can feel almost glass-like. Paddle around the shoreline and you'll discover a different side of Fowey. Hidden inlets, boats gently bobbing on their moorings and stretches of coastline that feel wonderfully removed from the bustle of the harbour.

Younger children often enjoy riding on the front of the board, while older ones quickly become determined to master standing up. Either way, expect plenty of laughter along the way.

By kayak, it's easy to venture beyond the harbour and explore quiet corners of the estuary, secluded beaches and stretches of shoreline that many visitors never see. Along the way, you might spot local wildlife, drift beneath wooded banks or simply enjoy the novelty of arriving somewhere by water.

Guided kayaking trips are available locally, helping families uncover the stories, history and natural beauty of the area.

Fowey River Hire offer kayak and SUP rentals along with guided tours - an ideal way to explore hidden corners only accessible by water.

Not every water-based adventure needs to involve getting wet. There's something undeniably exciting about stepping aboard a boat and setting off across the water. For younger children, it can feel like a real adventure. For parents, it's a chance to sit back and enjoy the journey.

Boat trips departing from Fowey Harbour are a wonderful way to spend a summer morning or afternoon together. Look out for seabirds, watch the harbour bustle fade behind you and enjoy the simple pleasure of being out on the water.

Even the short ferry crossing between Fowey and Polruan feels like part of the adventure.

Few places feel more connected to sailing than Fowey.

The harbour has welcomed sailors for generations and remains one of Cornwall's best-known sailing destinations. During the summer months, visitors can often watch boats racing across the estuary or setting out towards the open sea.

For families looking to try something new, local sailing schools offer introductory lessons and experiences suitable for beginners.

It is a chance to step into a long maritime tradition whilst creating a few family stories of your own.

For families keen to experience Cornwall’s surf culture, Polzeath is well worth the journey. Just under an hour from Fowey Hall, this wide sandy beach is a favourite for beginner surfers, with consistent waves and surf schools offering lessons for both children and adults.

It’s a brilliant day out in its own right. Wetsuits on, boards under arms, children racing towards the water and everyone comparing their best wipeouts afterwards. Whether you catch your first wave or simply spend the day watching from the sand, surfing at Polzeath has all the ingredients of a classic Cornish summer memory.

Some summer holiday traditions never go out of style.

Just a short walk from the centre of Fowey, Readymoney Cove is one of the area's most popular family beaches. With its sheltered setting and calm waters, it's the kind of place where a quick visit often turns into an entire afternoon.

Children can paddle at the water's edge and search for treasures amongst the rocks, meanwhile, parents can settle in with a book or watch the boats pass by. Before long there are sandy feet, half-finished ice creams and negotiations over whether it's really time to leave yet.

Some of the best holiday memories begin with the simplest ideas.

Head to the quayside with a crabbing line and it won't be long before children are peering over the edge, eagerly waiting for movement below the water. Every catch brings a fresh burst of excitement, while parents find themselves unexpectedly drawn into the competition too.

An hour can disappear remarkably quickly, replaced by stories of the one that got away and promises of one last attempt before heading home.

A simple seaside tradition that's still every bit as entertaining today.

After a day exploring the coastline, Fowey Hall offers space to slow down. Children can make the most of the pools and family activities, while parents enjoy a little time to themselves. Then it's dinner, tired legs, salty hair and stories from the day's adventures.

The kind of summer day that's simple, memorable and wonderfully Cornish.