April is one of the most rewarding times of year to visit Cornwall. The cliffs burst into colour with wild flowers, the beaches are quiet but beautiful, and local cafés and hotels begin to open for the new season. It’s that sweet spot between winter and summer, with mild weather, affordable stays and a peaceful atmosphere that us locals love.

We live here in Cornwall and experience every season firsthand. April is one of our favourite months, when wildflowers start to bloom, the coast paths are full of life, and you can explore without the summer crowds. We can honestly say that spring in Cornwall feels special, the days are starting to get longer and then sun warmer, this is the perfect time to explore.

Why Visit Cornwall in April?

April in Cornwall is a wonderful blend of quiet charm and natural beauty. The days are longer, the weather improves, and there’s a sense of anticipation as spring is now in full swing.

It’s a great month for coastal walks, garden visits, and warm spring sunshine, with blue skies often appearing between spring showers. Accommodation is easier to find and much cheaper than in summer, and you’ll often have entire stretches of coastline to yourself.

If you enjoy nature, peace, and a bit of adventure, April is one of the best times to experience authentic Cornwall before the main summer holiday season begins.

April is also the perfect time for a spa getaway, imagine a clifftop hot tub overlooking a beautiful Cornish beach. Cornwall has many beautiful spa hotels to choose from and indulge in some self care.

Read our best spa hotels in Cornwall guide

💡 TOP TIP | April is one of the best months to explore Cornwall before the summer crowds arrive. Book accommodation early for Easter, pack layers for changing weather, and enjoy gardens like Trebah and the Lost Gardens of Heligan bursting into bloom.

Weather in Cornwall in April

Cornwall’s weather in April is mild and often surprisingly sunny. Average temperatures range from 8–13°C, though it can feel warmer in sheltered spots along the south coast. Expect a mix of sunshine, light rain, and fresh sea breezes.

Sea temperatures hover around 11°C, so while it’s still chilly for swimming, surfers and paddleboarders will find the conditions improving as spring progresses.

Cornwall Weather in April	Summary
Average Temperature	11°C, highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C
Average Rainfall	60mm over around 13 days
Average Sea Temperature	11°C
Daylight Hours	Around 13 hours
Typical Conditions	Mild, bright and occasionally breezy

While the wind off the ocean can feel cooler still in April, we are always surprised at how warm the sun can feel at this time of year. Making it very pleasant for coastal walks and enjoying the outdoors.

Read our what to do in Cornwall when it rains guide

What to Pack for Cornwall in April

Cornwall’s spring weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is key.
Here’s what we always recommend for April trips:

Lightweight waterproof jacket
Comfortable walking shoes or boots
Warm layers for mornings and evenings
Sunglasses and sunscreen (the UV can be stronger than you expect)
Reusable water bottle for long coastal walks
Swimwear and a wetsuit if you plan to surf or sea swim

Read our St Ives guide

Things to Do in Cornwall in April

April offers an amazing mix of outdoor adventures, scenic drives and cultural events. Many of Cornwall’s gardens and attractions reopen this month, and the coast paths are in perfect condition for exploring.

Coastal Walks and Nature

Spring is one of the best times for walking in Cornwall. The South West Coast Path comes alive with colour, with wild garlic, thrift and gorse covering the cliffs.

Some of our favourite routes include:

Sennen to Porthcurno | A rugged but rewarding section with dramatic views.
Lizard Point Circular | Perfect for spotting seabirds and enjoying turquoise coves.
Pentire Headland near Polzeath | Ideal for spring wildflowers and sea views.

April also marks the start of wildlife season, with seals often seen around Godrevy and puffins returning to the coast near Padstow.

Book a Cornwall private guided tour

Beaches and Surfing

While it’s still early for sunbathing, April can bring some surprisingly warm days for beach walks or picnics. Surfers love this time of year as the waves are consistent and the beaches are quiet.

Top beaches for April include:

Fistral Beach, Newquay | Great surf and lively cafés.
Porthcurno | One of Cornwalls best beaches on the quiet south coast.
Kynance Cove | Stunning turquoise waters and fewer visitors before summer.

If you’re new to surfing, April is a fantastic time to take a lesson before the crowds arrive in July.

Book a surf lesson at Fistral beach

Gardens and Attractions

April is wonderful time of year to experience Cornwall’s famous gardens, which burst into life with bluebells, camellias and magnolias.

Some of the best to visit are:

The Lost Gardens of Heligan | A magical spring escape full of flowers and woodland trails.
Trebah Garden | Tropical valleys leading to a private beach on the Helford River.
Trelissick | Perfect for spring colour and peaceful garden walks.

Many National Trust properties also reopen in April, offering a glimpse into Cornwall’s historic homes and estates surrounded by spring blooms.

Book tickets to The Eden Project

Festivals and Events in April

April marks the start of Cornwall’s festival season, with a fantastic mix of food, music, and local celebrations taking place across the county.

Easter at the Eden Project
The Eden Project hosts a range of family-friendly Easter activities throughout April, including themed trails, creative workshops, and seasonal events among the biomes. It’s a great day out for visitors of all ages.

Trevithick Day Camborne
This lively street festival celebrates the life and work of Cornish engineer Richard Trevithick. Expect parades, live entertainment, market stalls, and plenty of local pride filling the streets of Camborne.

Bude Spring Food Festival
Held in the seaside town of Bude, this springtime food festival features artisan producers, local delicacies, and street food stalls showcasing the best of Cornish cuisine.

Porthleven Food Festival
One of Cornwall’s most popular food events, Porthleven Food Festival combines chef demonstrations, live music, and harbour-side food stalls in a buzzing coastal atmosphere. Dates vary slightly each year.

Jesus Longboard Classic Polzeath
Surf culture comes alive in Polzeath each April with the Jesus Longboard Classic, a fun and friendly competition that draws surfers from across the UK to this iconic North Cornwall beach.

Food and Drink

April is a great month for enjoying Cornwall’s food scene before it gets busy. Many coastal restaurants reopen for the season, offering spring menus filled with fresh local seafood and seasonal produce.

Some of our top picks for April dining include:

The Boat House Newquay | Street food on the beach at Newquay harbour.
The Hidden Hut | Beachside lunches that feel like a secret find, overlooking Porthcurnick Beach.
The Ugly Butterfly 2.0 | Adam Handlings latest restaurant wowed us, fine dining at its best.

Where to Stay in April

April is a brilliant month for value stays in Cornwall. You’ll find lower prices and better availability than in summer, especially midweek.

Top picks for April stays:

St Ives| Ideal for art, beaches and scenic walks.
Falmouth | Lively harbour town with great restaurants and access to the south coast.
Padstow | Perfect for food lovers and springtime coastal walks.
Newquay | Great surf, good prices, and early-season buzz.

STAY | Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate

Many boutique hotels and self-catering cottages offer special spring deals, making it an affordable time for a short break or extended stay.

Read our best boutique hotels in Cornwall guide

Use our interactive map below to find that perfect place to stay

Tips for Visiting Cornwall in April

Book early for Easter | If your visit falls during the school holidays, book accommodation and restaurants in advance.
Be ready for all weather | Sunshine one minute, sea mist the next, it’s part of the fun.
Take advantage of quieter roads | April traffic is light, making road trips and coastal drives much more enjoyable.
Plan for outdoor days | The best way to experience Cornwall in April is to get outside and explore.
Check event dates| Local festivals and gardens can change schedules depending on weather, so double-check before travelling.

How April Compares to Other Months

Cornwall in April feels warm, vibrant and livelier, than mid winter, with more attractions reopening. It’s much quieter than May and June, though you’ll still get long days and bursts of sunshine.

If you prefer peace and affordable stays, April offers the perfect mix of mid spring freshness and pre-summer calm.

April is one of the most underrated months to visit Cornwall. The weather is often very good, nature is blooming, and the coast feels alive again after winter. You’ll enjoy peaceful walks, affordable stays, and a real sense of connection to the landscape.

We live here and see Cornwall through every season, and April always feels like a fresh start. Whether you’re coming for a spring break, a surf trip, or a quiet escape, this is a month that shows Cornwall at its most authentic and beautiful.