Why September is the best time to visit Cornwall (and still feels like summer!)
1st September 2026
September is one of the best times of year to visit Cornwall. The crowds are subsiding but the weather is (arguably) the warmest of the year with long golden evenings, bright mornings making it the ideal time to explore the very best of what Cornwall has to offer.
- September is often when the sea is the warmest of the year. With the whole of summer to warm up, typically sea temperatures have peaked to around 18͒ – not quite the Maldives but refreshing and perfect for wild swimming or surfing! We are lucky enough in Cornwall to be blessed with some of the clearest seas in the UK and an abundance of marine life from seals and sea birds, to colourful fish, spider crabs and dolphins. There are lots of helpful guides online to help with spotting our amazing range of wildlife, and also how to maintain a safe distance and observe from afar
- It’s no secret that Cornwall definitely quietens down when the schools go back and the peak summer rush of July and August subsides. September still allows for those long evenings watching the sunset, and the temperatures are still mild enough for shorts and a t-shirt (watch the sunburn!) Without the busy crowds, restaurant bookings are easier, the roads are less congested and you may even find a few hidden spots with the beach to yourself!
- For dog owners, the dog beach bans are generally lifted in September giving unlimited access again to many of our beautiful beaches. Remember to always keep your dog on a lead around cliffs and check tide times before your visit. Some of our favourites are Harlyn Bay, Mawgan Porth, Porthcothan and Tregirls (not that we’re biased!) Rip currents are particularly prominent along the north coast so it is always worth researching before your visit
- September is widely considered the best month for seafood in Cornwall. It offers the “sweet spot” where summer’s prime fish are still abundant, autumn shellfish are at their plumpest and the oyster season officially reopens. In Cornwall, many of our chefs and restaurants are totally clued up on understanding the benefits of seasonality given our wide range of fresh produce
