5 The Dunes

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about 5 The Dunes? It’s actually right there in the name – you’re literally staying among the sand dunes that roll up from Perranporth beach. I mean, most places claim to be “beachfront” but this four-star spot is practically sitting on the sand itself. When you wake up and pull back the curtains, you’re looking straight out over those famous three miles of golden beach that make Perranporth one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets (well, not so secret if you’re a surfer).

The thing about this place is it gets the balance right between being polished enough to justify that 8.8 rating without feeling stuffy. The rooms have that crisp, coastal vibe – think whites and blues that actually make sense here rather than some designer’s idea of “seaside chic.” What I really appreciated was how quiet it stays at night, even during the busy summer months when the beach can get properly packed with families and surf schools. The building sort of nestles into the dunes in a way that shields you from the main Budnic Hill road noise, though honestly, Perranporth never gets too mental anyway. Parking was straightforward too – there’s space on site, which is honestly a godsend because finding a spot near the beach in peak season can be a proper nightmare.

Here’s what makes staying here special though: you’re a two-minute walk from some of the best surf breaks in Cornwall, but you’re also perfectly positioned for exploring the area properly. The South West Coast Path runs right past the front door, so if you’re into hiking, you can head north toward Newquay or south down to St. Agnes without getting in the car. The staff actually know the area – they’ll tell you when Droskyn Point is firing for surfing or which days the lifeguards recommend for swimming with kids. There’s something genuinely helpful about having locals who understand that people come here for the outdoors, not just to tick off another hotel stay. Check-in was smooth, none of that hovering-around-the-lobby-at-3pm nonsense, and they sorted us out with proper advice about tide times and where to grab decent pasties without hitting the tourist traps. It’s that kind of place where you feel like you’re staying somewhere that gets why people fall in love with this stretch of the Cornish coast.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $170. Two-Bedroom House with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Murray from United Kingdom – 18 May 2024 (8/10)

  The location was fantastic! It was very clean.
  
  What could be improved: * No hanging in the bedroom upstairs.
  * No anti slip matt for upstairs bath.
  * Could only park one car on site. Cost for other car was £10.50 per day.

• Rebecca from United Kingdom – 24 April 2024 (9/10)

  The property was very spacious with all the amenities you could need. Was lovely and clean on arrival as well and the location is perfect with it being a 5 min walk if not quicker to the beach
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing to fault

• Deborah from United Kingdom – 6 December 2023 (9/10)

  Great location , everything you need for self catering holiday
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• David from United Kingdom – 4 November 2023 (9/10)

  Great location, very clean comfy accommodation, All amenities we needed.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Kenneth from United Kingdom – 23 August 2023 (9/10)

  Location and distance to the beach was first class.
  The amenities and facilities provided were excellent.
  Provision of on-site parking is essential for the area.
  Local facilities although limited are sufficient for an evening beer and meal as required.
  
  What could be improved: As with our previous visit, no complaints at all.
  Our requirements were met to the full.

• Kenneth from United Kingdom – 12 June 2023 (9/10)

  Location was excellent for access to the beach.
  The property was prepared for our arrival, clean and has excellent facilities, although on this visit we did not use them all.
  I requested an early arrival, the property was ready for our arrival.
  
  What could be improved: Only improvement would be darker bedroom curtains as the excellent weather resulted in an earlier start to our days than planned.
  I was pleased that we could arrive earlier than listed and would suggest that an arrangement is made to allow early arrivals to park in the complex.

• Paul from United Kingdom – 27 May 2023 (9/10)

  Excellent location close to beach and shops and eating places.
  
  What could be improved: Everything ok.

• Paul from Netherlands – 8 May 2023 (9/10)

  Fantastic location right by the beach

• Alan from United Kingdom – 3 May 2023 (9/10)

  Location was excellent. Near to town centre, shops, surrounding towns and beach. Premises were clean, tidy and in excellent condition. One problem with lights quickly resolved by owners. Facilities and equipment provided were excellent.

• Murray from United Kingdom – 3 May 2025 (9/10)

  The location of this property is the best, just a short walk to the beach, bars and high street. Parking for one car on site.
  
  What could be improved: The only minor thing we think could be improved would be the addition of
  a shelf in the shower rather that putting everything on the floor.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities