Are you looking for exciting and unique ways to keep your teenagers entertained during your family holiday in Cornwall? Hold on tight as we tell you about the ultimate activities for families with teenagers.
- Outdoor adventure at Via Ferrata
- Splash about at Kernow Adventure Park
- Challenge yourself at Granite Planet
- Unforgettable surfing and paddleboarding
- Surfing and activities for “tweens”
- Step on it! Go Kart Racing at St Eval
- A great time for kids of all ages
- A one of a kind experience wildlife spotting with Orca Sea Safari
- Time is on your side at Eureka Escape Rooms
- Satisfy the need for speed at Cornwall Waverunner Safaris
- Discover wildlife at Newquay Zoo
- Scream if you want to go faster at Flambards Theme Park, Helston
- Your teenagers will love their family holiday in Cornwall
Outdoor adventure at Via Ferrata
Long Downs
Nearby Penryn offers a Via Ferrata experience that is sure to get your kids’ adrenaline pumping. With metal steps, suspension bridges, and zip wires, this outdoor adventure is like no other.
What Is Via Ferrata?
Via Ferrata translates from Italian as ‘Iron Road’ and is one of the most popular climbing activities worldwide. This thrilling activity provides a safe way for your teenager to climb vertical rock faces and challenging routes allowing you to scale heights that would otherwise be inaccessible.
After scaling cliff faces and balancing across high wires, your kids get to enjoy one of the most scenic zip-lines in Cornwall – soaring through the air at speeds of up to 40 mph. All equipment is provided, and no previous climbing experience is required.
Splash about at Kernow Adventure Park
Long Downs
This fun-filled destination offers four exciting activities for visitors to enjoy – the aquapark, paddle boarding, kayaking and e-boats. The aquapark is ideal for thrill seeking teens and adventure lovers alike. Bounce and jump your way around the park and enjoy hours of fun on the inflatable slides and trampolines.
And now there’s a brand-new addition to Kernow Adventure Park – e-boats! These boats are electric powered which means they are quiet enough not to disturb any wildlife living in or around the lake. You can learn how to drive them safely with instructors at hand, so you can be sure that your teenagers will be able to explore every corner of this beautiful lake on their holiday.
Challenge yourself at Granite Planet
Penryn
This small, family-run climbing centre offers an incredible variety of routes and activities that will make you and your children never want to leave. It’s perfect for families with teenagers looking for an adventurous and challenging day out.
The welcome is warm and friendly, and the size of the centre meant there is plenty of separate areas to explore. There are over 100 holds on the circuit walls alone, so climbers of all ages can find something to challenge them – from easy 3+ routes up to difficult 6+ routes.
Kids who like bouldering will love the cave and chimney. With its family-run atmosphere, Granite Planet provides a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
Unforgettable surfing and paddleboarding
Falmouth Surf School at Maenporth Beach
Maenporth
No trip to Cornwall would be complete without hitting the beach! Whether your teens are experienced surfers or first-time paddleboarders, they can enjoy the waves and have an adrenaline-filled experience in one of Britain’s most popular surfing destinations. There are plenty of instructors and schools offering lessons throughout the region for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
Catch a wave!
Surf lessons are an exciting and educational experience that will have a lasting impact on your teenager’s confidence and capabilities in the water. With the Falmouth Surf School’s experienced instructors, your teenagers will learn how to safely enjoy the waves while developing a greater respect for ocean activities. They will also gain valuable knowledge about surfing technique and board control that is essential for any successful surfer.
Surfing and activities for “tweens”
The Surf School at Maenporth has a Kids Club that offers parents the perfect opportunity for their ‘tween’s aged 8-12 to have an unforgettable summer experience that combines learning with fun. Not only will your children learn valuable beach safety skills, but they will also build relationships with new friends along the way. Plus, if weather doesn’t cooperate, there are plenty of alternative activities like marine biologist visits and SUP games that guarantee that everyone has an amazing time regardless of the sea conditions.
Step on it! Go Kart Racing at St Eval
Wadebridge
If your teens love speed, then go kart racing is a fantastic way for them (and you!) to get their adrenaline pumping. The main track at St. Eval Kart Circuit is designed for anyone aged 12 years or older—including mum and dad. The circuit is packed with twists and turns, straights and chicanes, allowing drivers of all abilities to show off their skills behind the wheel. The circuits are wide enough to accommodate two karts side by side, so you can race against your family or friends if you choose, adding an extra element of competition and fun. Helmets are provided and safety briefings are given before each session begins, ensuring that everyone is safe on the track.
A great time for kids of all ages
For kids aged 7-11 years old, there’s a dedicated Cadet circuit where they can drive solo around the track while supervised by experienced staff members. This circuit features tighter curves than the main family circuit, giving younger drivers more control over their karts as they navigate their way around the course. Again, helmets are provided and safety briefings are given prior to each session so that everyone stays safe while having fun behind the wheel.
A one of a kind experience wildlife spotting with Orca Sea Safari
Falmouth
https://www.orcaseasafaris.co.uk/
Cornwall has one of the largest populations of dolphins in the UK, so why not take a boat trip out into open water and try dolphin spotting? You could be lucky enough to have a close-up encounter with these majestic creatures—a sight that no teenager will soon forget.
The ‘Seaquest of Falmouth’ offers guided tours that take you out onto the ocean and to show you the natural beauty of Cornwall from a different perspective, while also giving you an opportunity to spot some of the amazing species that visit Cornwall
These tours offer much more than just wildlife spotting; they provide an educational opportunity as well. Whether it’s dolphins, seals, whales, seabirds or even basking sharks, there’s something to be seen by everyone aboard the Seaquest.
Time is on your side at Eureka Escape Rooms
Falmouth
Eureka Escape Rooms Cornwall offers themed rooms suitable for all types of players—from experienced escape room enthusiasts who are looking for something new, to first timers who want to test their mettle. Each location (Falmouth, Truro and Penzance) has two rooms with different themes, so there is something available for everyone. The goal is simple but challenging—you have 60 minutes to escape using only your mind, logic and teamwork. These challenges provide an exciting way for teens (and adults) to bond during the holidays, and it also encourages collaboration and communication amongst teammates. Plus, it’s an excellent way for your teenager to exercise their problem-solving skills.
Satisfy the need for speed at Cornwall Waverunner Safaris
https://www.cornwallwaverunnersafaris.co.uk/
Waverunners and Rib Rides
Jet Ski Adventures
Jet skiing is one of the most popular activities in Cornwall, and it’s easy to see why. Onboard a powerful Yamaha Waverunner, your teenager will have an unforgettable experience exploring the Cornish coast from a different angle. The experienced team will provide all the necessary safety equipment and training so that you can hit the water with confidence. You don’t need any prior experience – just a sense of adventure.
Banana Boats bring the fun
Commonly referred to as ‘The Banana Boat’, this is a fun filled adventure across the bay on an inflatable banana boat towed by a powerful Yamaha Waverunner. With up to ten people onboard, this thrilling ride is perfect for groups who want an adrenaline-filled adventure with their friends or family members. Wetsuits, buoyancy aids and lifejackets are provided for your safety.
Discover wildlife at Newquay Zoo
https://www.newquayzoo.org.uk/
Newquay Zoo is home to an impressive array of animals from both Britain and around the world. From red pandas and lemurs to meerkats and otters, visitors can get up close to some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet.
Interactive Experiences
Newquay Zoo offers a number of interactive experiences that will keep your teenaged kids entertained all day long. Visitors can learn about animal behaviour through talks given by knowledgeable zookeepers or get hands-on with one of their favourite creatures during a special animal encounter session. The zoo also provides opportunities to feed certain animals like goats or donkeys—a great way to make memories that will last forever.
Educational Opportunities
Newquay Zoo isn’t just about having fun; it’s also about learning about wildlife in a safe environment. The zoo has several educational programs available for teenagers including workshops on conservation, and how different species adapt to their environments. These activities are designed to help young people develop an appreciation for nature and gain an understanding of how vital it is to preserve our planet’s precious resources.
Scream if you want to go faster at Flambards Theme Park, Helston
Flambards has plenty of exhilarating rides for teens who are looking for an adrenaline rush. From roller coasters and log flumes to a zipwire, there’s something for every thrill-seeker. The iconic Sky Raker offers spectacular views across the park while you soar above it all. It’s one of the most popular rides at Flambards and promises an unforgettable experience that will leave your teens beaming with excitement!
Your teenagers will love their family holiday in Cornwall
It can be challenging to keep teenagers entertained on a family holiday but with our list of top activities, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time. And remember, if you want to guarantee a stress-free holiday for all, Maenporth Estate is the perfect place to stay. With plenty of activities on site as well as nearby, stunning beaches and world-class surfing, our luxury accommodation will make your family holiday one to remember.
