Starfish Cottage- private beach access- dog friendly

Hotel Description

Look, I’ve stayed at a lot of coastal places that promise “private beach access,” and honestly, half the time it’s just marketing speak for a rocky path down to some pebbles. But Starfish Cottage? This place actually delivers on what it says – and then some.

First thing you notice pulling up to 4 Bay View Road is how quiet this stretch of Charlestown feels compared to the main tourist drag. I mean, you’re still close enough to walk to the Shipwreck Centre and those famous tall ships (the kids will lose their minds over those), but there’s something genuinely peaceful about this particular pocket. The cottage itself has that proper Cornish character – thick stone walls that keep things cool even when the August sun is blazing, and windows positioned just right to catch the sea breeze. What really got me though was stepping out back and realizing the “private beach access” isn’t some shared wooden steps with fifty other guests. There’s actually a little gate that leads down to this gorgeous stretch of sand that feels almost secret. During low tide, you can walk for ages – perfect if you’ve brought the dog, which, thank god, they actually welcome here instead of just tolerating.

The whole setup works brilliantly for families or anyone who wants that seaside experience without the chaos. Mornings are magical down on that beach, especially if you’re up early enough to have your coffee while the mist is still lifting off the water. And you know what surprised me? How well-equipped everything was inside. The kitchen actually has decent knives (travelers know this matters), there’s proper Wi-Fi throughout, and the beds are genuinely comfortable – not those saggy things you sometimes get in holiday rentals. Even the shower has good pressure, which honestly feels like a small miracle in some of these older coastal properties. The only tiny thing I’d mention is that if you’re driving, the road can get a bit narrow when you’re coming back during busy summer evenings – nothing terrible, just something to keep in mind if you’re not used to Cornish lanes. But really, staying here feels like you’ve found one of those places locals might actually recommend to their friends, rather than just another generic holiday let. The whole experience just feels… authentic, I guess. Like you’re actually experiencing coastal Cornwall rather than just visiting it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $199. Three-Bedroom House with 2 × 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 5

Reviews

• Rohit from India – 22 April 2025 (9/10)

  Had all the facilities we needed and the kitchen was stocked with all kinds of utensils, spices and crockery.
  The location was also amazing
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Graham from Australia – 17 April 2025 (8/10)

  Great location, huge rooms, well equipped kitchen, comfy beds
  
  What could be improved: Too short a stay!

• Paul from United Kingdom – 31 March 2025 (8/10)

  Duporth is a great location – handy for beach and Charlestown where there are good bars and cafes (breakfast at The Longstore is recommended). Good walk also to Porthpean beach.
  House is warm and comfortable with good garden and parking. Lots of crockery/cutlery – everything you might need.
  
  What could be improved: Windows were dirty and most/all contained condensation within double glazing making it look a bit grubby which is a shame because it’s a nice, clean house inside.

• Linda from United Kingdom – 27 February 2025 (9/10)

  Spacious and everything you needed
  
  What could be improved: Mud and dog paw marks on the stairs when I got there. Stair gate did not fit anywhere. Towels small.

• Paul from United Kingdom – 27 December 2024 (8/10)

  Warm and welcoming as soon as we opened the door. Was spacious and felt like home from home and not a holiday cottage run just for money.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Rosie from United Kingdom – 15 November 2024 (8/10)

  Lovely cottage – great location!

• Sophie from United Kingdom – 3 November 2024 (8/10)

  Clean, nicely decorated and perfect for a beach stay.

• Ben from United Kingdom – 21 September 2024 (8/10)

  Lovely location, great beach nearby, off street parking.
  
  What could be improved: Only thing I’d recommend adding is a full length mirror, but nothing to criticise.

• Sacre from United Kingdom – 11 September 2024 (8/10)

  Its location as well as its facilities and space within the property
  
  What could be improved: Couldn’t find the tv controller or the recycling bags. Other than that it was perfect.

• Leanne from Ireland – 19 July 2024 (9/10)

  Location was great, it had all the facilities that we needed!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities