St Mawes is a beautiful Cornish seaside town perfect for hiking coastal trails, paddling calm estuary waters, cycling quiet lanes, and enjoying historic castles. It's a relaxed base for outdoor lovers exploring Cornwall’s south coast.
St Mawes is a beautiful Cornish seaside town perfect for hiking coastal trails, paddling calm estuary waters, cycling quiet lanes, and enjoying historic castles. It's a relaxed base for outdoor lovers exploring Cornwall’s south coast.
Outdoor Adventure in St Mawes, Cornwall
Located on Cornwall’s scenic south coast, St Mawes offers a blend of coastal charm and outdoor adventure suited for all skill levels. This small town is a gateway to water sports, hiking, cycling, and historic landmarks.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make St Mawes, Cornwall special.
★ 7⌖ 28.71 milesExplore Mount near Bodmin, Cornwall, offering serene settings with panoramic views and historic sites. Perfect for hikers, cyclists, or wildlife watchers, this quiet spot is ideal year-round, especially in spring and fall. Bring your camera for stunning vistas.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in St Mawes, Cornwall, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in St Mawes, Cornwall.
⌖ 0.2 miKarleyth Diving runs weekly SSI Explorers kids’ sessions from Carn Brea Leisure Centre — short, focused 1½-hour blocks with flexible scheduling and the option to make up missed sessions.
⌖ 1.2 miA two-day SSI Dry Suit Course run by Karleyth Diving that teaches dry suit technique, safety and issues certification on successful completion.
⌖ 1.6 miA full SSI Open Water certification run by Karleyth Diving: five confined‑water sessions, classroom theory and a final exam, plus four open‑water dives to 18 metres.
⌖ 2.0 miA focused, 2-hour evening cruise from Port Pendennis Marina that visits Frenchman’s Creek, the Helford River and Gyllyngvase Beach and Swanpool as the sun goes down.
⌖ 2.0 miA focused 2-hour river adventure departing from Port Pendennis Marina that pairs the layered history of Malpas, Turnaware Bar, King Harry Ferry and Trelissick House with chances to spot dolphins, seals and working oyster beds.
⌖ 2.0 miA 40-minute RIB powerboat ride around the bay from Challenger Quay — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring and who can join for a family-friendly adrenaline burst.
⌖ 2.0 miA two-hour SSI refresher in Portscatho led by an SSI Professional that pairs a full briefing with an hour in the water to help you regain competence before your next dive holiday.
⌖ 2.1 miA clear-eyed guide to Karleyth Diving’s SSI Explorers Kids full‑term Club — a 12‑lesson snorkel and scuba program delivered with schedule flexibility so young learners can explore marine life at their own pace.
⌖ 2.2 miA full-day, 7-hour hire of an 18′ Plymouth Pilot — pet-friendly and suitable for up to eight people with a full on‑arrival briefing and no prior experience required.
⌖ 2.2 miHourly, half-day and full-day single‑kayak rentals from Mylor Boat Hire let you explore Mylor Creek, Pill Creek and the River Fal; this guide lays out the options, common stops and what to bring.
⌖ 2.2 miGuided tours, hourly rentals and full‑day outings on Mylor Creek and the Fal River—ideal for wildlife watching, hidden beaches and a paddle‑to stop at the Pandora Inn.
⌖ 2.2 miSelf-guided double-kayak rentals from Mylor let paddlers of any experience explore sheltered creeks, the Fal River and waterside stops for as little as an hour or for a full day.
⌖ 2.2 miHire a 19′ gaff‑rigged Shrimper from Mylor Boat Hire for half‑day to multi‑day exploration of the Fal Estuary and Helford River; this guide lays out what to expect, where you can go, and who should be in charge.
⌖ 2.5 miAn award-winning, 1.5-hour walking tour that uses humour and theatrical storytelling—including encounters with the Town Pirate and Town Crier—to reveal Falmouth’s hidden corners and combustible past.
⌖ 2.5 miA 75-minute evening walking tour that blends spine-tingling maritime tales, theatrical flair, and family-friendly storytelling to reveal Falmouth’s darker local history.
Make the most of your visit to St Mawes, Cornwall with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
St Mawes, Cornwall hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of St Mawes, Cornwall during the iconic St Mawes Week Regatta. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of St Mawes, Cornwall during the iconic St Mawes Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of St Mawes, Cornwall during the iconic Fal River Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Book accommodations early in summer due to its popularity with tourists.
Public transport is limited; a car or bike is recommended to explore surrounding areas.
Check weather before paddling as coastal conditions can change rapidly.
Pack layers and waterproof gear as Cornwall weather can be changeable.
Local shops and eateries are seasonal—plan accordingly outside peak months.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in St Mawes, Cornwall. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.