Campsites in Looe, Cornwall

Camping in Looe is a breath of fresh air. If you enjoy nice long walks on the beach, capturing stunning images of the coastline or finding colourful and unique wildlife, then camping in Looe is a must. Check out these incredible things to do on your visit.

1. Wind down at Looe Beach

Grab your beach bag, pack your favourite picnic foods and head down to Looe Beach. The sandy beach is great for adults and children alike. Enjoy activities like wild swimming, canoeing and paddle boarding on the Looe river or build sand castles and enjoy a picnic on the golden sand as you watch fishing boats depart and return to the port.

On the opposite side of the river at Hannafore, there’s a rocky beach where the Looe Marine Conservation Group runs regular rockpool classes for children of all ages. On your rockpooling adventure, you might spot squat lobsters, sea lettuce, strawberry anemones, and many more colourful creatures. If the tide is in, this is also a brilliant place to go snorkelling and see what friendly faces are swimming beneath.

Once you’re done bathing in the sun and exploring the river, treat yourself to a creamy ice cream or some fresh fish and chips from the local food kiosks. If you’re short on time and want to get back to your campsite, you can purchase fresh fish from the local fishmongers on the quayside. These fishmongers sell everything from cockles to cod, so you can go home and cook up a mouth-watering feast.

2. Discover Looe Island

Looe Island is a marine nature reserve that provides a quiet haven for wildlife. You can only travel to the island by official organised boat trips and the access is limited. It also involves climbing over the side of the boat and onto a narrow landing, so much care is needed. Once you’re safely on the island, you’ll get two hours to walk around – keep your eyes peeled for rare birds and grey seals.

3. Explore Looe Valley Vineyard

Established in 2008, Looe Valley Vineyard aims to create high-quality local artisan wines. Take a tour through the vineyard and taste their luxurious collection of unique drinks, or book a workshop and make your own creation.

4. Visit Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary

Opening in spring, the Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary welcomes everyone to spend a day with the adorable animals who have been rescued by the sanctuary. The Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary homes over 40 monkeys, all with unique personalities.

Once you’ve met the monkeys, you can head to the gardens to see Cornish bugs and beasties. If you’re camping in Looe with children, this is a great place for them to monkey around, as the sanctuary has a great children's play area.

We know you’ll need to put your feet up after a day of non-stop entertainment, so why not visit the tea room and gift shop at the end of your trip? Treat yourself to a cup of tea and a slice of cake, or purchase some amazing gifts to remember the incredible adventure you had.

5. Climb down to the Carnglaze Caverns

Nestled within 8 acres of ancient oak woodland near Looe are the Carnglaze Caverns. Whilst visiting, you’ll go 150m into the hillside and 60m below ground to see the three caverns. The first cavern sits above the second, and you’ll have to go down 50 steps to reach it. The third cavern is now flooded but forms a breathtaking underground lake with crystal-clear blue/green water.

6. Visit Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol

Uncover the history of the coastal town by visiting The Old Guildhall Museum. You can see exhibits of the canal and railway in Looe as well as the Raddy cameras and photographs. There are plenty of fun and creative activities for kids to do throughout the museum too.

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