Stay Cool This Summer in Cornwall with These 7 Simple Tips

Summer in Cornwall can bring long, warm days filled with sunshine and outdoor adventures. But when the heatwave hits, staying comfortable becomes a challenge for families, solo travellers, holidaymakers, and couples alike. The good news is that you don’t have to let the rising temperatures spoil your time. With a few practical strategies, you can enjoy Cornwall’s natural beauty while keeping cool and refreshed.

Move Slowly and Don’t Rush

One of the simplest ways to stay cool during a hot summer day is to slow down your pace. When the sun is high and the heatwave is in full swing, rushing around only raises your body temperature and makes you feel more tired. Instead, take your time walking, exploring, or even sitting quietly in a shaded spot.

By moving slowly, your body produces less heat, and you conserve energy. This approach works well whether you’re wandering through a coastal village or hiking a woodland trail. Plan your activities for early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are lower, and rest during the hottest hours - do like the Mediterranean's do and take a siesta!

Head to the Beach or Shaded Coastal Woodlands

Cornwall’s coastline offers some of the best natural cooling spots. Beaches are ideal because the sea breeze helps lower the temperature and keeps the air fresh. Choose a beach like Whitsand Bay with some natural shade, like trees or cliffs, where you can escape direct sunlight when needed.

If you prefer a quieter setting, coastal woodlands provide a cool refuge. The trees block the sun and the proximity to the sea means you can still enjoy the refreshing breeze. Places like Penlee Woods near our WilderMe glamping site are perfect for this kind of escape.

Drink Lots of Water

Keeping hydrated is essential when the temperature rises. Drinking plenty of water helps your body regulate heat and prevents dehydration, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and sip regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Avoid sugary drinks or alcohol during the heatwave, as they can dehydrate you further. If you want a refreshing twist, add slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint to your water for a natural flavour boost.

Use Sun Protection

Sun protection is crucial to stay cool and safe under the summer sun. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat shields your face and neck from direct sunlight. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen allows your skin to breathe and reduces heat buildup.

Don’t forget sunscreen with a high SPF rating. Apply it generously and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Sunglasses with UV protection will also help protect your eyes from glare and sun damage.

Find or Create Shade

Shade is your best friend during a heatwave. Seek out natural shade under trees, gazebos, or beach umbrellas. If you’re spending time outdoors, bring a portable sunshade or pop-up tent to create your own cool spot.

At home or in your accommodation, close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to keep indoor spaces cooler. Using fans or placing ice packs in front of them can also help circulate cooler air.

Place Ice Packs in Front of a Fan

This tip might sound surprising, but it really works. Placing ice packs or frozen water bottles in front of a fan creates a cool breeze that can lower the temperature in a room. As the fan blows air over the ice, it cools down before reaching you.

This method is especially useful in places without air conditioning. It’s an affordable and easy way to improve comfort during a heatwave without relying on electricity-heavy appliances.

Take Cold Showers or Sea Swims

Nothing refreshes the body like a cold shower or a swim in the sea. The beaches here on the Rame Peninsula offer a natural way to cool down quickly. A dip in the ocean at Kingsand, Cawsand or Whitsand Bay lowers your core temperature and invigorates your skin.

If you’re not near the coast, a cold shower at home can provide similar relief. Try alternating between cool and lukewarm water to stimulate circulation and reduce heat stress. For families, this can be a fun way to cool off together after a day in the sun.

I hope these tips provide you with some relief at home or when you're visiting us here on site! Let me know if you've tried any of these and please share this blog post with your friends and family to help keep them safe and happy too.

Lots of love, India, Nat, Geoff and the WilderMe team xx