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A hidden gem in Cornwall, often overshadowed by its bustling neighbour, has much to offer for those seeking a tranquil seaside escape.

This peaceful spot, known as Hayle, boasts a sprawling beach that stretches for nearly three miles, ensuring there's always plenty of room for you and your family to enjoy.

The charming town centre is home to a variety of independent shops, with the local farm shops receiving rave reviews.

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From traditional bakery goods to locally-sourced meat and vegetables, not forgetting the mouth-watering Cornish pasties, there's no shortage of delicious fare.

And thanks to its prime location overlooking Saint Ives Bay, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, you can also indulge in freshly-caught fish at Hayle's eateries, reports the Express.

Just across the bay lies the popular holiday destination of St Ives, but Hayle offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.

With miles of golden sand, an abundance of wildlife, thrilling surf and a rich history rooted in mining and fishing, Hayle is truly an unsung hero of Cornwall.

However, recent major developments on Hayle's North Quay have reportedly had a significant impact on the local fishing community.

The sea around Hayle is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, but swimmers and watersports enthusiasts are advised to be cautious of riptide currents - lifeguards are on duty during the summer season.

Lifeguards designate safer swimming zones and position red and yellow flags just offshore - and you should only swim, surf or bodyboard between these markers.

However, it's the untamed nature of the waters here that lends the location its charm, and if you'd rather not chance a swim there are numerous spectacular walks available along the South West Coast Path.

You can trek from Hayle to St Ives via the coastal route (or the other way round) and the journey spans just over six miles with jaw-dropping vistas, featuring azure waters, rolling dunes and magnificent sunsets come evening.

Visit Cornwall's website outlines the Hayle region: "Hayle Beach is an excellent 3 mile sandy beach that stretches from the Hayle Estuary to Gwithian Towans and Godrevy Point.

"The lower part of the beach is close to the town of Hayle and comprises different sections of beach known as Harveys Towans, Hayle Towans, The Towans, Black Cliff and Mexico Towans."

One holidaymaker called Hayle Towans Beach 'a beautiful clean beach in most parts with lovely views' but noted 'there are no facilities and no bins for rubbish' so visitors must carry their waste home with them.

Another beachgoer praised the same stretch of coast: "Best beach ever (for me anyway), so clean and you can walk for miles bare foot all the way.

"Lifeguards from one end to the other, if you visit you won't be disappointed."

In addition to the beach, holidaymakers have lauded the neighbouring 'interactive' wildlife centre, Paradise Park, which is home to a variety of creatures including rare red squirrels, birds of prey and 'adorable otters', among others.