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Haven holidays in Cornwall are caravan, lodge and glamping breaks on a holiday park, with entertainment, pools and activities on site, usually priced as a package for the whole family. At the time of writing, the Cornwall parks people most often look at are Perran Sands near Perranporth and Riviere Sands near Hayle, and both are on or close to the coast. Park details, facilities and prices change from season to season, so treat this guide as a starting point and confirm everything on Haven’s official website before you book.
Which Haven parks are in Cornwall?
Haven’s Cornwall line-up has changed over the years, so always check the current list on the official site. The parks we are aware of are:
- Perran Sands: on the north Cornwall coast near Perranporth, a long-standing family favourite that sits close to dunes and a large sandy beach.
- Riviere Sands: near Hayle on the west of the county, close to the Hayle estuary and beaches along St Ives Bay.
If you want a Haven park elsewhere in the south west, the company also operates in neighbouring areas, so it is worth searching by region rather than one county only. For a broader look at self-catering and park stays across the county, see our guide to Cornwall holiday homes and cottages.
What is a Haven holiday like?
Haven parks are designed so that you can arrive, unpack and have plenty to do without leaving the site. That makes them popular with families who want a simple, sociable break. Typical features across the brand include:
- Self-catering accommodation, such as caravans, chalets and lodges, with different grades that offer more space or extras.
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools and play areas, though exact facilities differ by park.
- Evening entertainment and children’s activity programmes, usually included in the price on many breaks.
- Bars, cafes and takeaways on site, plus a shop for essentials.
Some activities and extras cost more, such as certain sports sessions, arcades or premium dining. Check what is included in your booking so you can budget properly.
Is Haven good for toddlers?
Haven markets itself heavily to families, and many parks offer features that suit younger children, such as soft play, shallow pool areas and early evening shows. That said, what each park provides, and what ages the clubs cover, varies. Before booking with a toddler, it is worth checking:
- Whether the park has a toddler pool or a separate area for little ones.
- Which indoor play spaces are available if the weather is poor, because Cornish weather can be unpredictable.
- Whether cots and highchairs can be added to your booking, and if there is a charge.
- How far the accommodation is from the main facilities, as long walks with a pushchair can be tiring.
- Show times and whether they run late, which may not suit early bedtimes.
Read recent family reviews from independent sites to get a feel for the atmosphere, as it can differ between parks and between school holidays and quieter weeks.
What does a Haven break cost?
We do not quote prices because Haven’s rates vary widely. The main things that affect the cost of a Haven break are:
- Time of year: school holidays, especially the summer weeks, are the most expensive. Term-time short breaks are usually cheaper.
- Length of stay: weekend, midweek and full week breaks are priced differently.
- Accommodation grade: larger or newer accommodation with extras such as hot tubs usually costs more.
- Extras: pet fees, bed linen, towels, parking add-ons and activity charges may not be in the headline price.
- Offers: the company often runs promotions, but always read the terms and check what is actually discounted.
Before you pay, add up the likely total including travel, food and activities. Our cheap holidays guide has general advice on keeping a family budget under control, and our UK holidays page compares other options around the country.
Is Haven near the beach?
Both parks we mention are in coastal areas, but being in the same area as a beach is not the same as being on it. Distances vary, and some routes involve a short drive or a walk through dunes. Check the following on the park page or map:
- The walking distance to the nearest beach, and whether the route is suitable for a pushchair.
- Whether the beach has lifeguard cover and when it operates, which differs by season.
- Tide times, as some Cornish beaches shrink dramatically at high tide.
- Dog restrictions on the beach, if you are travelling with a pet.
For more ideas for coastal breaks around the UK, see our UK coastal holidays guide.
Getting to Cornwall and getting around
Most families reach Cornwall by car, and traffic on the main routes can be heavy on summer Saturdays. Leaving very early, or travelling midweek, often makes the journey calmer. If you do not drive, there are rail links to the county, but you will then need a taxi or bus to reach a park, so check the options in advance.
Once there, a car is useful for exploring beyond the park, because Cornwall’s attractions are spread out. If you are flying in and hiring a vehicle, our car hire guide explains how to compare deals and avoid surprise charges.
What to do near a Haven park in Cornwall
You may not need to leave the park, but a day out can add variety. Typical ideas for the area include:
- Beach days, with a bucket and spade or a go at bodyboarding where conditions are safe.
- Coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, which runs along much of the county.
- Small harbour towns and fishing villages with cafes and ice cream shops.
- Wet weather options such as museums, aquariums and indoor play centres.
Opening times and prices change, so check each attraction’s own website before you set out.
When is the best time to book?
If you want to travel in school holidays, book as early as you can, as the best accommodation is often reserved first. For a quieter and often cheaper break, consider term-time dates in late spring or early autumn. Be prepared for mixed weather whenever you go. If your dates are flexible, comparing a few weeks side by side usually shows how much the price changes. For ideas if you decide at the last minute, see our last-minute holidays guide.
Haven or something different?
A holiday park suits families who value convenience and on-site fun. If you would rather have a quieter, more independent trip, a cottage, a campsite or a small hotel may suit you better. Think about how much you want to cook, how much you want to travel around and how important organised entertainment is for your children. There is no single right answer, and many families try both styles over the years.
Practical packing tips for a Cornish park break
Cornwall’s weather can change quickly, so pack for sun, wind and rain even in summer. A few items make a park stay smoother, particularly with young children.
- Layers and waterproofs: coastal breezes can be cool, and a light waterproof jacket is useful on any day.
- Swimwear and a beach bag: pools and beaches may both be on the agenda, so keep towels and spare clothes handy.
- Sun protection: sun cream, hats and sunglasses matter near the sea, where reflected light can catch people out.
- Food basics: if you are self-catering, bring a few store cupboard items for the first evening, then check where the nearest supermarket is.
- Games and books: a small stash of cards, colouring and board games helps on wet afternoons.
- Chargers and adapters: bring extension leads if you need to charge several devices, and check what is provided.
Booking tips to avoid disappointment
Read the booking terms carefully, especially on arrival and departure times, which on holiday parks are often fixed. Check the final price before paying, because extras can change the total. Keep a copy of your confirmation and the park’s contact details, and ask about any special requirements in writing so there is a record. If you are travelling with grandparents or extended family, ask whether neighbouring accommodation can be requested, although this is rarely guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to take my own bedding and towels?
This depends on the booking type. Some packages include them and others charge extra, so check the details in your confirmation.
Can I bring a dog to a Haven park in Cornwall?
Pet policies vary by park and accommodation type, and there may be an extra charge or a limit on numbers. Confirm with the park before you book.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Many parks offer Wi-Fi, but coverage and any charges differ. If you need to work or stream, ask before you book.
Are Haven holidays suitable for teenagers?
Some parks offer activities for older children, but teens may prefer to explore the coast. Check what is provided for their age group.
Should I buy travel insurance for a UK break?
It is worth considering, as cover can help if you need to cancel or if belongings go missing. Our travel insurance guide explains what to look for.
Are there other places for a family break near Brighton and Sussex?
Yes. If you do not want to travel as far as Cornwall, our Sussex breaks guide and our post on Chichester and Selsey holiday parks show closer options.
What is the cancellation policy?
Policies differ by booking. Read the terms on the official site and consider whether you need extra protection.
Summary
A Haven break in Cornwall can be an easy, sociable family holiday close to the sea. Check the current park list, ask about toddler facilities, compare prices across dates and confirm the distance to the beach before you commit. Always rely on Haven’s official information for up-to-date details.