What is there to do at the Cornish seaside?

Crabbing off the harbour wall, rock-pooling, beach games, wildlife spotting and learning a few fascinating seafood facts to share, the coast is one big playground for all ages.

What is crabbing and how do you do it?

Crabbing means catching shore crabs on a weighted line or drop net, usually off a harbour wall. It is simple, cheap and great fun, just remember to return your catch gently to the water.

What can you do at the beach on a rainy day?

Print our free puzzles and crosswords, learn some crab jokes and seafood facts, or wrap up and go rock-pooling, as some of the best finds appear after a blustery tide.

Where can I find activities for children?

Our kids' page has crab-care tips, jokes and free downloadable puzzles, and our crabbing kits make a brilliant first seaside adventure.

Coastal story3 min readUpdated 13 May 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Fun Stuff

The Cornish coast is one big playground, whatever your age. From the simple joy of crabbing off a harbour wall to a head full of fascinating seafood facts to share, this is our growing collection of ideas to help you enjoy the seashore. Pop back often, as we are always adding more.

Read the guide

Background to this story

Family read

Story notes

Why this is worth sharing. A few calm notes before you settle into the full read.

It keeps the coast friendly and approachable, especially for younger readers and families planning time together.

Little coastal joysThe simple coastal moment that makes it fun.

Some of the best coastal memories are simple: crabbing, paddling, funny facts, first fish, beach games and small adventures.

For curious familiesWho the read is especially good for.

This story is for families who want something easy to share before a day out or around the kitchen table.

Across generationsWhy these small memories keep coming back.

The details change from generation to generation, but children still find wonder in the same saltwater moments.

Make it playfulHow to enjoy it with children or visitors.

A light, family-friendly read for children, grandparents, holiday days and anyone who wants the coast to feel playful.

The full story

Read straight through, or use the story notes above to settle into the place, memory and detail.

The coastline is a great place to have fun and our plan is to provide lots of ideas and information to help you enjoy the seashore.

You will see this section grow in the future so please keep popping back for new ideas and activities.

For the time being, if you have never been crabbing, you really should try it as it is great fun - whatever your age!

Our Seafood Facts page is a great place to gather lots of interesting facts to impress your friends!

Common questions

What is there to do at the Cornish seaside?: Crabbing off the harbour wall, rock-pooling, beach games, wildlife spotting and learning a few fascinating seafood facts to share, the coast is one big playground for all ages.
What is crabbing and how do you do it?: Crabbing means catching shore crabs on a weighted line or drop net, usually off a harbour wall. It is simple, cheap and great fun, just remember to return your catch gently to the water.
What can you do at the beach on a rainy day?: Print our free puzzles and crosswords, learn some crab jokes and seafood facts, or wrap up and go rock-pooling, as some of the best finds appear after a blustery tide.
Where can I find activities for children?: Our kids' page has crab-care tips, jokes and free downloadable puzzles, and our crabbing kits make a brilliant first seaside adventure.

Two ways to make a day of it

Fresh air, good food and a bit of headspace. Here are two places to start.

Small Cornish harbour with fishing boats moored in clear water

Explore the coastline

Places and practical tips for days by the sea.

Grilled mackerel fillet with rocket and lemon on a plate

Find your next recipe

Ideas for preparing, cooking and enjoying seafood.

Editorial illustrations; explore the guides for place and recipe details.