u/njaysea

We’re camping just outside St Ives for 10 nights this July with our daughters (3 and 7). First proper family camping holiday for us, so we’ve got plenty of time to fill and want to make the most of the area beyond the obvious beach days.

Would love recommendations on:

• Best family-friendly beaches nearby (we know St Ives itself, but curious about quieter/safer ones for little ones — ideally something that works for both a toddler and a 7 year old)
• Rainy day activities in case the weather doesn’t play ball
• Kid-friendly walks or short hikes with a good payoff (waterfall, viewpoint, rock pools etc.) — bonus points if it’s manageable for a 3 year old’s legs
• Any “local secret” spots that don’t show up in the usual tourist guides
• Good places to eat that actually welcome young kids (cream tea recommendations very welcome too!)
• Anything worth booking in advance for July, given it’s peak season

Anything else you wish you’d known before a family trip to this part of Cornwall also very welcome. Thanks!

Just got a Dometic Ascension FTX 401 (4-person inflatable) for our first proper family camping holiday with two young kids. Looking for practical setup advice from anyone who’s used one for a week+ trip rather than just weekends:

• Any tips on the best layout for the bedrooms/living area for a family of 4?

• How are people using the rear storage area in practice?

• Pitching tips for getting it taut/wrinkle-free on the first go (it’s a 2-person job apparently)

• Anyone added the annexe or +1 inner tent — worth it?

• General “wish I’d known this before our first trip” advice

Thanks in advance!

Nick