Best beach hot chocolates in Cornwall
In summer, Cornwall is renowned for its ice cream – the perfect warm weather treat to enjoy on a sunny day on the beach. But come the cooler months, there’s no better way to defrost from those biting coastal winds than with a cockle-warming mug of hot chocolate.
And Cornwall has upped its hot chocolate game in recent years. Whether you enjoy yours with a full complement of whipped cream, marshmallows and sprinkles or prefer a ‘bare’ hot choc, there are loads of places to slurp your cocoa beside the sea on a freezing-cold day.
We’ve done the hard work of finding the ultimate winter warmers for you. Here’s our guide to the best beach hot chocolates in Cornwall.
Poldhu Beach Cafe, Mullion, South Cornwall
Poldhu Beach Cafe goes all out on its hot chocolates. Whether you’re a grown up who thinks they’re too grown up for cocoa, there’s an option for you; Baileys or rum. If you’re under 12, these will probably be the best hot chocs you’ve ever tasted. Not only do they come with lashings of whipped cream and marshmallows as standard, but insane toppings, too. Choose from shortbread snowmen, chocolate orange segments, Flakes, whole cookies and even After Eight mints. The cafe is the perfect place to park, go for a cold coastal walk and return for treats. Delish.
The Beach Hut, Watergate Bay, North Cornwall
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Looking for a side of style along with your (very fancy) hot chocolate? Visit the Beach Hut, a super-chilled, beautifully understated restaurant tucked into the cliffs at Watergate Bay. It serves fresh local seafood, has sweeping views out over the beach and puts on epic sunsets. But we’re here to talk about hot chocolate. There’s a variety on offer, ranging from ‘classic’ – a delicious, no-frills hot chocolate – to ‘extreme’: an extravaganza of whipped cream, marshmallows and chocolate buttons, finished with a dust of chocolate. For sophisticated hot chocolate aficionados, choose from orange, Oreo, mint, gingerbread, pumpkin spice or chai. Yummy!
Godrevy Cafe, near Hayle, North Cornwall
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The huge golden sands, towering cliffs and dramatic coves at Godrevy are a sight for sore eyes at all times of year. In winter the lack of crowds, bracing air and ethereal light make it even more beautiful. Bundle up for a walk along the beach or brave the cold water and head in for a surf or dip. Keep your eyes peeled for seabirds and maybe even the odd seal. Afterwards, head to Godrevy Cafe to warm up. You’ll be welcomed with delicious food, such as freshly baked sausage rolls and roasted veg frittata, and seriously delicious hot chocolates, too. Choose oat milk if you’d like a dairy-free alternative. For a decadent twist, go for the chocolate orange hot chocolate.
Swanpool Beach Cafe, Falmouth, South Cornwall
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For a unique take on hot chocolate, opt for Swanpool Beach Cafe. Work up a good appetite first, by exercising the dogs and children along the coast path at Gylly beach (there’s a large car park there). This cafe is famous for its Quirkies, which are cones or tubs of ice cream covered with clotted cream and then dunked in gorgeous toppings. It’s no surprise that the hot chocolates are equally as badass. First, the hot chocolate is made from a real chocolate lolly dissolved in hot milk. Second, the toppings (and their names) are legendary: whipped cream plus honey-roasted hazelnuts (the Hedgehog), chocolate malt balls (the Malt Pleaser) and white chocolate mint sprinkles (Get Minted).
The Hungry Horsebox, Hayle, North Cornwall
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You may want to bring a blanket to protect yourself from the elements, but the Hungry Horsebox offers such a showstopper of a hot chocolate that you won’t mind the frostbite. You’ll find this quirky mobile al fresco eatery on the rugged Gwithian Towans beach in Hayle. The Ultimate Hot Chocolate is topped with wafer rolls, smarties, caramel chunks and a stick of toasted marshmallow. Is there a better way to warm up: woolly hats, whipping winds, warm hot chocolates and a spectacular view? We can’t think of one!
We have plenty of beautiful holiday cottages in Cornwall, where you can whip up your own hot chocolate, and enjoy next to a cosy fire. Take a look.
Tremerth Cottage | Carneggan Barn | Little Trevisquite | Driftwood