Sun, sea and The Surf Shack

We arrived on a golden, balmy afternoon, with the sun low in the sky and the water glinting in shades of turquoise and silver. We shed our bags, changed into swimsuits and wandered down the steps towards the beach for a refreshing evening dip. Back at the hideaway, we rinsed off in the outdoor shower on the decking, the salt-kissed breeze in the air and the vast seascape stretching out before us. It felt magical.

Dinner was a feast of veggie skewers and freshly caught fish picked up from the farm shop on our way, perfectly charred on the gas barbecue provided. With a glass of something chilled in hand, we watched from the perfect vantage point, as the sky blushed pink and the light slowly faded. Inside, the shack itself is a boho haven featuring soft washes of sage green and sea-blue tones, echoing the colours just beyond the windows. Thoughtful details, from the sumptuous sofa and luxurious bed linens to the sleek, well-equipped kitchen, made it a calming space to unwind in. Though small, the cabin felt perfectly formed, framing the breathtaking view. As night fell, we curled up, lulled to sleep by the soft sound of waves.

The next morning began with the unexpected rumble of a summer thunderstorm rolling across the bay. Rain hammered against the windows and the sea turned wild, but being tucked up in the cosy cabin with a pot of tea and Cornish biscuits (kindly left for us by the owner) felt like its own kind of luxury. There’s something about stormy seaside mornings, with nowhere else to be, that make you appreciate the calm even more.

By late morning, the clouds cleared and we set off into Sennen. Just a short walk away, it’s full of charm, with cafés, a little shop, and plenty of atmosphere. We picked up breakfast rolls from a café and wandered to the sea wall to eat them, watching the waves and the surfers already out making the most of the swell.

With the sunshine fully restored, we spent the afternoon on Sennen’s golden sands, lounging and reading between swims. For lunch we strolled over to Sennen Surf Lodge, tucked above the beach with panoramic views from the sun-dappled decking, and enjoyed hearty fishfinger sandwiches in the shade before heading back down to the beach for another dip in the sea. Later that afternoon, we explored the coastal path, winding our way up the cliffs to take in the dramatic views towards Land’s End, refreshed by the cooling sea breeze. 

Our last evening took us down to the Old Success Inn, a characterful pub, just a short stroll away and right by the water’s edge. We sat outside to soak up the final rays of sunshine, the sound of the tide rolling in beside us. Plates soon arrived, piled high with fresh local seafood and generous sides, leaving us happily full. The slow wander back up the hill to The Surf Shack was magical,  the sea glittering in the fading light, the air warm and still. 

The following morning, not quite ready to say goodbye, we lingered over an alfresco breakfast, soaking up the sunshine and taking in the views one last time. The Surf Shack has been the perfect coastal staycation, where we left feeling refreshed and entirely at one with the wild beauty of Sennen.