Things to do in Looe

Looe is one of Cornwall’s most appealing seaside towns; it’s compact, characterful and easy to enjoy over a short break. Split into East and West Looe by the river, it offers sandy beaches, coastal walks, boat trips and plenty of good places to eat, all without feeling overwhelming. Whether you’re visiting with children, travelling as a couple or bringing the dog along, there’s no shortage of things to do in Looe and the surrounding area.

This guide covers the best things to do in Looe with kids, dogs and for couples, offering ideas that work well over a weekend. All attractions are within easy reach of The Vale Lodges, making it a peaceful base for exploring South Cornwall, including nearby favourites like Polperro and Fowey.

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• Best things to do in Looe with kids
• Best things to do in Looe with dogs
• Best things to do in Looe for couples

Best things to do in Looe with kids

Looe is a great choice for families, especially if you like your days outdoors and your plans flexible. Everything is based fairly close together, which makes it easy to dip in and out of activities without turning each day into a military operation.

Enjoy a day on East Looe Beach

East Looe Beach is the obvious starting point for families, and with good reason. It’s a sheltered, sandy beach with gentle water and easy access from the town, making it ideal for visiting with children. Rock pools appear at low tide, and there’s plenty of space for paddling, sandcastles and relaxed beach games.

This is a beach my kids loved visiting; we enjoyed a full day by the sea, followed by fish and chips from Kelly’s of Looe, with little feet covered in sand and all of us crammed onto a bench watching the sun dip. It was simple, unfussy, and one of those golden days my children still talk about.

Our insider’s tip: Arrive earlier in the morning during peak summer weeks, as the beach is calmer, and you’ll have more space before daytrippers arrive.

Take a boat trip from Looe Harbour

Boat trips run regularly from Looe Harbour during the warmer months and are a real highlight for children. Options range from short scenic cruises along the coastline to wildlife-spotting trips where seals and seabirds are often seen.

Looe Sea Safari offers an incredible wildlife experience, with a 45-minute tour taking in the seals at Looe Island, a speed down to Polperro and a turn of Looe Bay.

Our insider’s tip: Shorter trips are best for younger kids – long enough to feel like an adventure without pushing attention spans too far.

Visit Porfell Wildlife Park and Sanctuary

Just outside Looe, Porfell Wildlife Park and Sanctuary offers an easy family day out, especially if you’re travelling with younger children. The park focuses on rescued wildlife and is small enough to explore at a relaxed pace, with short walking routes, animal enclosures and picnic spots, ideally placed for those endless snack requests. It’s a nice contrast to a beach day and great if the weather turns or energy levels dip.

Our insider’s tip: Aim for a late morning visit, as it’s usually quieter, and you can head back towards Looe afterwards for a simple lunch by the harbour.

Best things to do in Looe with dogs

Cornwall is generally dog friendly, but Looe works particularly well if you’re happy to mix coastal walks with quieter inland spots and nearby villages. You’ll find the locals very welcoming, with shops and cafes often offering water bowls and doggy treats to your canine companion.

Walk the South West Coast Path from Looe

The South West Coast Path runs straight through Looe and offers some of the most rewarding walking in this part of Cornwall. Sniff out adventures towards Polperro, and you’ll witness spectacular clifftop views, discover wooded sections and plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery. It’s a more energetic walk than a beach stroll, but well worth it.

Our insider’s tip: Walk out towards Polperro and then turn back when it suits you – the views are just as good without committing to the full distance.

Explore Polperro with your dog

Polperro is just a short drive from Looe and makes a great dog-friendly outing. While the village itself is compact and can get busy, the surrounding paths and harbourside walks offer plenty of space to explore. You’ll also find that many cafes welcome dogs, particularly outside peak lunch hours. Find yourself a cosy spot and take in the scenery over a late lunch with Rover at your side – bliss.

Our insider’s tip: Visit early or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest period in the village centre.

Tour the gardens at Lanhydrock Estate

For a dog-friendly day out that feels a little more special, Lanhydrock is well worth the short 30-minute drive inland from Looe. A National Trust estate, it offers miles of woodland trails, riverside paths and open parkland where dogs are welcome on leads; ideal if you’re looking to stretch legs away from the busier coastal paths. The routes are varied enough to suit both gentle strolls and longer walks, and there’s plenty of space to slow things down and enjoy the surroundings.

Our insider’s tip: On a hot day, head straight for the woodland walks rather than the formal gardens; they’re quieter and more shaded in summer, offering relief from the sunshine and coastal winds.

Best things to do in Looe for couples

For couples, Looe really comes into its own when you slow the pace right down. This is a place for coastal walks, long lunches and evening strolls rather than ticking off attractions. A weekend here is best spent wandering, eating well and letting the town reveal itself between tides.

Wander around West Looe

West Looe feels noticeably quieter and more residential than the eastern side of town, with pastel houses climbing the hillside and uninterrupted views back across the harbour. It’s perfect for an unhurried walk, taking in the boats coming and going, or finding a bench to sit and watch the light shift across the water.

Our insider’s tip: Cross the bridge at sunset and linger – it’s one of the best photo opportunities in town and has a very romantic atmosphere.

Take a day trip to Fowey

Easily reached from Looe, Fowey has a more sophisticated feel, making it an excellent choice for couples looking to slow things down for the day. Independent shops and small galleries line the streets, while the harbour provides a constant backdrop of boats and ferries drifting past. It’s the kind of place where plans tend to stretch; a quick coffee becomes lunch, lunch turns into a waterside drink, and before you know it, you’ve spent most of the afternoon simply soaking it all in at a tranquil pace.

Our insider’s tip: Park once and explore this pretty town on foot – Fowey is compact, and you’ll see far more by wandering.

Enjoy a long, unhurried meal

Looe has no shortage of good places to eat, particularly if seafood is high on your list. Whether it’s a casual lunch overlooking the harbour or a quieter evening meal tucked away from the main streets, dining is very much part of the experience here.

For an especially intimate evening, Fifty Looe is a local favourite; its relaxed but refined menu, seasonal produce and harbour views make it perfect for lingering over a fresh, seasonal meal after a day of exploring.

Our insider’s tip: Book ahead during school holidays – even informal spots fill quickly in summer.

Frequently asked questions about Looe

Is Looe good for families?

Yes, absolutely. Looe’s sandy beach, boat trips and walkable town centre make it well suited to family breaks.

Is Looe dog friendly?

Looe is dog friendly, particularly outside peak summer months. Coastal paths and nearby villages offer good walking options year-round.

How long do you need in Looe?

A weekend is ideal for seeing the highlights, with time for the beach, a coastal walk and a nearby village visit.

Holidays in Looe

So, if you’re planning a short break, our collection of Cornwall holiday lodges offer space, flexibility and a quieter pace than staying right in the centre of town. The Vale Lodges provide a peaceful base within easy reach of Looe, Polperro and Fowey, making them ideal for couples, families and dog-friendly stays.

Explore our available Cornwall holiday lodges and start planning your break in Looe today.