Sands Resort Hotel

Here are our latest customer reviews

“We so did not want to come home ”
20th Aug
I think that the staff are a big part of what makes Sands so special - nothing was too much trouble and they all seemed to genuinley enjoy working there and were a happy bunch.

We were at the outdoor pool one morning and the pool maintenance man must have overheard us saying that it was shame we didn't have some toys to play with as it wasn't yet warm enough to swim. 5 mins later he was back with a soft football, a tennis ball and some floats (equipment that other holiday makers have left behind and Sands just keep a stock of).

Sands has a Surf Shack where you can borrow buckets, spades, fishing nets and wind breaks - those sort of touches are what make you want to return.

The new outdoor equipment (we last went 5 years ago) is fab. A zip wire, football pitch and wooden climbing frame/adventure area were used daily by my children (9 and 5) plus there is a basketball court, area for mini tennis, pitch and putt golf course and a bouncy castle (staff supervision required).
The children both had a few sessions in the various clubs and were always keen to go. The staff were friendly and again, seemed to genuinely enjoy what they were doing.

The food was fantastic - 4 choices for each course and the soups were specially good.

I was impressed that the gym had new cv equipment (2 treadmills, 2 life cycle bikes, 2 cross trainers and 2 rowers.) I was disappointed with the free weights and mentioned this to a member of staff, also commenting that there were no mats. The very next day there were 2 mats and some more new free weights! Apparently they are planning a gym extension in the next 18 months and will properly equip a free weights section then.

We considered extending our stay - that's how happy we were with Sands. And we will definitely be going back. They seem to have got the right mix of everything for a family with young children.

“ Not just for families ”
20th Aug
I decided to visit cornwall for a weekend by myself, having never travelled alone before i was a little self conscious.

The hotel was beautiful, and every member of staff i came across - reception, bar staff and waititng staff made me feel at ease, were really friendly and couldnt do enough for me, making my stay a great experience...although sold as a family hotel, which it does a great job of, it is also set out in such a way that this doesnt encroach on holidays of people not travelling with children.

I also had the best back, neck and shoulder massage in the salon on site that i've ever had!

“ Fantastic stay in a wonderful hotel. Great staff too ”
18th Aug
I stayed for the 2nd year running at this hotel and again it was superb. The staff in the nursery were very understanding and great with my two kids. One of my children has down syndrome and her behaviour can sometimes be quite challenging in new situations but the staff were very capable and a delight. I had no doubts on them being able to manage with my two kids who are both under4. They loved their morning sessions.

On a different note I thought the facilities were excellent for young children. Lots of space and facilities around the hotel to keep kids amused. The restaurant is also very good and excellent value. I will be back next year....no doubt!

“ A perfect stay ”
18th Aug
I must say that we, this is my wife, my 11-year-old daughter and I, had two perfect weeks in Cornwall. The hotel is situated near NEWQUAY but far away from the noisy town and perfectly situated near the ocean. The service, the room, everything was excellent, well, even the weather was not too bad....

“ These people really know how to run a hotel for families ”
17 Aug
If you are parents with young or youngish children looking for a family holiday that gives you a real break and is rewarding and enjoyable for the kids then this is the place. We've just returned from our third stay, and this time we took some friends along as well - they loved it too. The hotel and its grounds are rich in facilities for children and adults alike. Ther staff are friendly, responsive and unobtrusive. The restaurant is excellent and the service great. It's hard to fault Sands - we think it is unassuming and low key in a positive way that caters for many tastes, cultures and classes of people...but most important they seem to understand what modern hard pressed families need from a holiday!

“ Back Up To Standards Again ”
17th Aug
After a blip when we stayed at Easter out stay in August was top notch. Once again the owners have invested funds on the site - this time a new shower area in the pool facility - full marks to them for striving to improve the facilities. The staff were great as usual - we had a few problems with our door locking mechansim and it was sorted with a degree of courtesy, professionalism and speed that other hotels could learn from. Indeed the staff make the place - for example our waitress was clearly a little inexperienced - but she made up for the occasional mishap with her enthusiasm, fiendliness and general desire to do the best job she could.

The rooms are pretty large, clean and quiet in the main

The play area for kids is great - I could barely drag my son off of the zip wire! Probably the only think the owners need to think about is the evening entertainment - and whether there could be more seating available for parents who want to sit with their kids but do not want to be in the disco / quiz etc

To be honest I can't speak highly enough about the place!

“ Another fantastic week at great Hotel ”
5th Aug
we have just spent another week at Sands, our 4th visit, and we had a great time. Facilities and child care are amazing and the staff are all great, very helpful. Our room is great and we all slept very well. The food was really good. To be honest I cant fault the place. It works for families with mixed age kids and couples alike there is always somewher to go, sit, visit etc If there was one thing I would change if I could that would be make it a little cheaper so we could go for longer!

“ If it wasnt for that drive ”
29th July
I could go on and on about this resort (and it is, rather than just a hotel), but I think pretty much everything has been covered ( even the crying when we had to leave!). I will say however, that the staff must be congratulated, they were excellent! Nothing was too much trouble, they were friendly, helpful, enthusiastic, the list goes on. After much reseach, we chose Sands over another highly rated rated nearby because of the friendly and helpful conversation my husband had when he rang to make some enquires. A rarity today so thank you everyone for helping us have such a lovely two week holiday! We loved it! Our toddler loved it! My In-Laws loved it! Next year I'm hoping my brother, sister and sister in law and their families will love it as much as we did.

“ Perfect stay We will be back ”
28th July
We have just got back from staying at the sands and we had the most fabulouse time. We booked on a whim and were not expecting to be blown away but we were. The rooms were excellent- the ideal set up for children. we made use of the baby listening service on both nights of our stay and stayed in the adult only section of the restaraunt over looking the sea. the food was good with plenty of choice and our 18 month old loved the high tea and having breakfast with us. The swimming pool and spa were both very good and the trip as a whole was laid back and relaxing. the staff were accomadating and helpful and the entire hotel was well designed and clean. The activities for children were excellent with nursery and children's clubs as well as bouncy castles a maze and very good play areas. what more can I say- we loved it and are going back in September.

“ Amazingly willing and amenable staff , intuitive to family's all round needs.”
27th July
we have a new baby,2 and 3 year old. Eating and sleeping was easy. the listening service allowing us to sneak off for dinner was very diligently provided for. the service personnel, quick,responsive and very in tune with the challenges of this age range.Good amenities and what better way to end the day than watching the toddlers belt it across the mile long beach down the road.Brill.

“ A pleasant trip ”
27th July
My wife and I stayed at the Sands Resort for four (4) nights on a half board basis. We met up with our Daughter, her husband and two children -- they were staying for eight (8) days. My wife and I had the benefit of a family room which was naturally very roomy with a king size bed and two singles, plus a cot. The staff at Sands were unbelievably friendly -- nothing was too much trouble, especially where our two grandchildren were concerned. Nicholas, our Polish waiter was exceptional, very kind, quietly spoken and a dream of a waiter.. The resort was clean, the facilities good and the food OK. By that I mean not exceptional but very acceptable. Drinks about the right price. Overall, we had a very nice time and I would be more than happy to recommend the resort. I would rate 9 out of 10. Mr J.S. Woods & Mrs L.D. Woods.

“ Having just left after an 8 night stay, our children wanted an immediate return!” ”
26th July
The staff are conscientious, extremely courteous and professional! It was our 4th time and it's super to see ongoing improvements, the bedrooms having been upgraded since our last trip.

“ Amazing hotel, perfect for family trip ”
15th July
Just had to add, we've been to the Sands Resort 4 or 5 times, it is such an amazing place, the family suites are amazing and the kids are so well catered for.
If you get a chance chat to the people who work there, they are so nice and friendly and will advise you on the best local attractions, pubs and restaurants.

“ A rare chance to relax with two young children ”
13th July
We stayed for a week and after our initial slight disappointment at the location of the hotel right on the main road, we checked in to our room which was fabulously spacious and looked newly done. From then on, what can I say - the staff were fantastic, the food was excellent, the childcare was amazing, the grounds were lovely, sea views stunning.....I could go on. Basically any initial concerns we had were quickly dispelled - we will definitely be back, Our 3 year old and 8 month old had an absolute ball - with two truly exhausted children at the end of the day we took full advantage of the baby listening and settled down to a great dinner every evening. Our 3 year old cried when it was time to leave and I have to say I wanted to join her.

“ Fantastic...wanted to stay longer ”
12th July
Just returned from a four night stay at Sands Resort with our two young daughters. Where to start...when we arrived it was two and a half hours before check in but we wanted to see where it was and my little one needed the loo so i explained at reception and they said our room was ready so we could check in now! We booked a comfort room but when we arrived although the rooms(master linking to the kids room) were clean and modern i was put off that the master room had no view but a frosted glass window on to the hallway. I went downstairs to see if there was any avaliability for the contemporary suites and the bloke on reception went out his way to make that happen...so a BIG thank you. In fact thank you to the lady who showed us the suite before changing it...she got the porter to carry our bags over...this wouldnt happen in a normal three star.
Kids club great all of the ladies friendly and extremely approachable. This was the first time my baby daughter been left in any creche etc and they managed to settle her each night within minutes...and shes going through a very clingy stage so it can be a hard task!
We will defiantly be returning but also we would like to try the sister hotel bedruthan steps four star although i hear that sands resort is just as good.

“ Just what every family wants ”
12th July
Modern hotel, great rooms and facilities, superb food and happy kids. We returned after our first visit last September as, altohugh a 6 hour drive, you can't go wrong. From playing tennis, football or golf, to getting lost in the maze or taking a dip in one of the pools - and that's just for the kids. Sensible family rooms and eating arrangements which just make things so simple - kids eat and, when they are in bed, parents eat and not self serve 'chips with everything' but choices from a proper menu. The hotel is right on the beach and, although that beach is 120+ steps down from the cliff top, its brilliant and one of many to choose from. All this and plenty of family activities in and around Newquay, with Dairyland and Lappa Valley well worth visiting. We will be back :O)

“ Amazing hotel facilities, food and service in a great location.”
8th July
Having checked all the great reviews we wondered if Sands would live up to our expectations but It exceeded them. It's just far enough out of Newquay to enjoy the view of it but miss the bedlam and it's above Watergate Bay which is stunning. The hotel and rooms are very clean and modern. Our contemporary suite had a wonderful sea view. The hotel seems to be run by teenagers or maybe we are just getting old, anyway they were all cheerful and willing to please - what more can you ask? The food is excellent and we looked forward to every meal, 5* food in a 3* hotel and very reasonable drink prices.

The facilities are incredible, everything is there especially for children. Our grandson spent ages on the scaled down football pitch and tennis court. We didn't expect a the maze or the super 9-hole pitch and putt course. And no extras, bats, racquets, clubs, surf gear, everything was inclusive.

Overall an excellent choice for a family with children.

“ Excellent family hotel ”
7th July
This is a family Hotel positioned on the cliff side with breathtaking views of the surrounding coast and sunsets. The Hotel is set up to provide maximum convenience to young families with facilities such as baby listening in the evening and buggy loan along with hire of baby back-carriers etc. This does result in a busy atmosphere that might be a little overwhelming for visitors hoping for a quiet retreat although the busiest times (breakfast dinner etc.) are easily avoided. The Hotel also offers a spa, inside and outside swimming pools that are modest in size but clean and well maintained.

Facilities in and around the area are replete and there are many high quality visitor attractions. The headland walks to nearby beaches are also easily accessible and offer stunning views. The adjacent beaches are amongst the best in the UK.

On first look the external aspect of the Hotel is a bit daunting, perhaps reflecting the heritage of the buildings and a rather individual style of decoration, but don't be put off by the appearance. The standard of internal finish is high and the grounds are quite extensive and well kept. Parking was easy.

We found the staff very helpful, friendly and courteous. Baby-listening was invaluable for concerned parents who want to enjoy a “normal” evening. The restaurant and bar facilities are very good! We have returned once already and will do so again.

“Great Family Friendly Hotel ”
1st July
We stayed at the Sands a few weeks ago. We were a bit nervous as we usually wouldn't stay in a 3 star resort but the reviews were very positive. We were pleasantly surprised. We had booked a contemporary family suite, which had 2 rooms, both with TVs, kettle, fridge. Bathroom was a bit small but fine, and everything was clean. Nice family friendly touches, like steps for kids to reach the sinks, and nappy disposal bins. The baby listening service was a boon, we preferred to eat without our children after they'd gone to bed. The meals were lovely, and it was definitely worth going for the dinner bed and breakfast option. Drinks were very reasonable, you didn't feel like you were being fleeced at every turn. Kids meal times were a good idea, they could make a mess and shout a lot and you didn't feel bad about it. They even had jars of baby food, which was great.
Facilities were good, the outdoor pool was shut when we were there, but it wasn't that hot anyway. Indoor one was fine, although I can see it being crowded at busy times, especially as there aren't many changing areas. The kids clubs were good and reasonably priced, and there was entertainment for children after their tea. Good play areas too. All in all, would definitely recommend it

“ What a brilliant hotel ”
23rd June
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Sands. It was the first time we'd stayed here and we'll definately be returning. The staff made us feel extremely at ease and were on hand at all times to help. The buffet breakfast was plentiful and the 3 course meal we had each night was a dream come true! Even the kiddies tea at 5pm was delightful, as not only was it nutritious, it was relaxing as everyone was in the same boat , all struggling to feed our excited and hungry kids!! We made full use of the baby listening service wihich I was a bit tentative about doing,but I can honestly say it made our holiday . To be able to sit down, relax, have a chat and eat fantastic food for 6 nights in a row was the icing on the cake!
We used the swimming pool every day which was always clean and our 5 year old loved the adventure playgrounds, zip wire and maze. The entertainment for the children after tea was a brilliant idea as it gave them a chance to wind down , and the times we used the kids club were met with 'I want to go again!!'
Our baby had an allergic reaction to some food while we were there, and because of the way the staff reacted so quickly to help , he was luckily Ok. They were on the ball with the first aid and paramedics and I'll be forever thankful how they dealt with the situation.
Big thanks to Leanne (manager) on the desk for her kindness and thoughtfulness.
We will be recommending this hotel to our friends, purely because we actually felt so relaxed and de-stressed there- a huge achievment when holidaying with small children!!

“ Perfect family hotel ”
23rd June
If you are wondering about going away to a hotel with young children and feel it might not be for you, think again, this hotel has everything you could think of and more to make your precious time on holiday an enjoyable and relaxing experience. If you look at the hotels website you will find all the information you require, they are honest about everything, but, I don't think they tell you enough about the excellence of their staff and the quality of their food, rooms etc. Also, as has been stated before, there really is no need to worry about the children 'letting you down', as the restaurant is designed to keep the little ones and their anxious parents away from the 'grown ups'. We have stayed in top quality hotels in a number of different locations, the only difference. as far as I can see, is the use of free slippers, expensive soaps etc. and towelling robes. As the slippers and the robes are not always a perfect fit, really The Sands offers a much better opportunity for value for money. I doubt anyone would want to go self-catering again once they have plucked up the courage to use this hotel. Oh, I nearly forgot, the best bit is they do not accept pets, a real bonus as we have allergic and asthmatic members of the family, it is amazing how the majority of places are 'pet friendly' and are therefore totally off limits for us.

“ Haven't been able to find a place in the UK to match it ”
10th June
Purpose built family suites, baby listening while we ate wonderful 3-course evening meals, a great kids club, kids meals at tea time, free buggy hire, free wetsuit hire, plenty of buckets, spades, fishing nets, body boards, tennis racquets, golf clubs etc to borrow - I can't say enough about this place. The staff made it truly stand out, though - they were so friendly and helpful and it made such a difference. All for an excellent price too. We will be going again.....

“ Great location but... ”
17th June
Been to this hotel half a dozen times over the years - initially with my young children, latterly as 'adults only'. Great location, great staff - but twice now we have arrived on a Friday/Saturday night when there has been a wedding reception taking place, and, quite frankly, the thump thump thumping of the disco music until the early hours is NOT funny - even a TV and/or hairdryer doesn't drown out the noise. This seems terribly bad to me considering that it is mainly families with young children that this hotel is targeting - I don't know what the answer is, short of them building a separate extension for these function nights - but it seems an awful oversight for somewhere that otherwise caters so well for children.

“ This Hotel is totally geared up for the benefit and enjoyment of the guests ”
10th June
When my wife and I agreed to travel to Cornwall for a five day stay at the Sands resort with our son, his wife, and our two grandchildren, five and nearly three, we didn't quite know what to expect. We are used to staying in five star Hotels and we are both quite picky. There are many lessons to be learned, by some of the five star Hotels, about how to provide for and look after guests and the Sands resort could certainly teach them a thing or two! Smiling, helpful staff who are working with a difficult clientel, young children. Spotlessly clean bedrooms and bathrooms, excellent food in the resteraunt and a range of activities to keep everone happy. The kids clubs are great and allow the parents some resting time and the child listening service in the evenings allow them a stress free dinner. Our grandson tested the system by calling out just after we had gone down for dinner on the first night, a member of staff came into the dinning room to advise us and a quick visit to the room settled him down and we heard no more from him. There are lots of activities for the kids during the day to keep them happy and the parents can pamper themselves with some of the spa treatments. All in all this is a great, reasonably priced, treat for the whole family and we will certainly be more than happy to return.

“ Great Staff - Lovely Views. Good Food and Kids Club ”
9th June
Just returned from 4 nights with the kids (Boys aged 8 and 4). Stayed in room 34 which had beautiful views, was spacious and attractive and has a great lay out for kids (Twin beds for them at the rear, little corridor with bathroom then master bedroom with great views at the front. The staff were the friendliest and most helpful I have come across in a long while. Lots to do in surrounding area. Kids loved the holiday AND the kids club so we were able to have lovely adult dinners with friends every evening and then pick up happy kids at 9.15pm. Our small issues were dealt with immediately and to our satisfaction.

“ Just returned from a 5 night stay ”
6th June
Just returned from a 5 night stay with two small children and grandparents in toe. Had a fabulous time and really can't fault this hotel. It offers excellent value for money, everything you need for a young family and completely relaxed. Nothing was too much trouble. The staff were delightful, excellent kids clubs and baby listening service allowing adults some quiet time too. We stayed in a contemporary suite, which was clean and well equipped with a child step in the bathroom, nappy bin, door gates, tv and playstation. Hard to believe it is only a three star hotel. We hope to return next year!

“ If you have kids you must stay at Sands ”
4th June
We have just returned from a five night holiday to Sands (we have a 6 and 3 year old). They are so geared up for children, they make you feel extremely welcome and do not appear to be watching 'your every move'. The staff 'go the extra mile' to help you and nothing is too much trouble. The kids clubs, the high teas, the Maze, the junior tennis court, the zip line, baby listening - all wonderful. We usually take self catering holidays ie cottages/caravans but having been to Sands, it has made us think that this is the way forward. Well done Sands. You get my vote!!

“ Excellent rooms, service, views, staff ”
4th June
very attentive staff, some really interested in serving the customers and engaging with us
Our room was a contemporary one with an area for the children that was brilliant, our view from the 3rd floor was excellent across porth beach to Newquay, facilities in the rooms were very good with the dvd/playstation etc likely to come in handy if the weather had been bad.
Location wise very nicely perched on top of cliffs, good for a bracing walk/run, depending what you like turn right out of the hotel for countryside, quiet(er) beaches and padstow area or left for Newquay and its beaches
Hotel had a good pool and excellent childrens clubs with well attended visits by zoo and aquarium, i saw the biggest crab ever crush a walnut in a single claw!!!
good outside play areas, unfortunately not enough time to take advantage of all facilities
I liked the room the best

“ Stress free holiday with young children ”
1st June
Fabulous hotel. Everything very child friendly, early evening meals for kids meant we could eat later using the free listening service. Food great. Room fabulous - great view of ocean. Very close to sheltered sandy beach and easy reach of numerous kid friendly venues. Facilities at hotel for play for differnt age groups great. We have 3 year old twins so used the kids club the morning we left so we could pack in piece and they had a great time there. Cant recomend enough if you are travelling with a young family. We will be going back!

“ Most child friendly place I've ever been ”
25th May
Just back from a long w/e at Sands. They have thought of so many child friendly features from step stools in the bathroom, baby gates in doors, spacious rooms, microwave available in dining room, a shallow heated indoor kids pool, and two fab playgrounds (one for younger and one for older with zip line). We didn't use the baby listening or attend the kids clubs, but they were on offer. The dining room is well organised so that if your child is being a kid you are in the presence of other families who understand. My family liked having the same table everyday to create some predictability and we didn't have to wait to be seated. The food was great and my kids (ages 2 and 5) were quite happy with their 3 course meals as well. Very friendly servers.
About 100 feet down the road to the left was a grueling load of steps down to an excellent bay. It was well worth the walk. Borrow (for free) some wetsuits and body boards from Sands and have a blast. Also spent another great day further down road at another cove with more activities: Lucky Glaze?
While I say that it was very child friendly, there were only a few families there and very quiet. I think the hotel was quite full with a tour bus of retired Germans who seemed to be enjoying themselves as well.
A couple of things to know though - you can't step out onto the balconies and there is not air conditioning.
We found out about this hotel from a friend with young children who has come for the past two years as well. Can't go wrong.

“ Parents dream hotel ”
21st May
We have just returned from a week at this hotel and will be recommending it to all of our friends - especially those with young children. We could not fault the hotel, its facilities or its staff. They have thought of pretty much everything to make life easy for parents with young children with babylistening (meaning you can eat on your own in the evening and chat to other adult guests without the usual interruption and mealtime chaos!), rooms with an adjoining separate section for the kids, pushchairs you can borrow, sterilisers, microwaves, separate childrens tea (food quality was excellent throughout our stay), creche facilities (also excellent). Even little things like a nappy bucket in the loo, night lights in the children's part of the room, etc etc. The swimming pool, outside play areas and spa were also top quality and we all had such a lovely week. Finally, the staff could not do enough to help out and respond to any request. We were extremely impressed and only wish we lived a little closer as the worse part of our week was definitely the journey to and from Cornwall (eight hours in a car with two small children far from fun). We will definitely return.
Oh and the location is great. Just outside Newquay and close to Watergate Bay and Padstow. Quite a lot of things to do with the kids and beaches are stunning with good facilities too - would have been even more perfect had we had nicer weather!

“ Great place to stay with young kids ”
21st May
Excellent hotel- great service, very family friendly; baby listening service great for having some time on your own in the evenings. Didn't use kidsclub but facilities looked good. Nice indoor pool and outdoor one looked great ( too cold to use!). Clean rooms. Great food both for adults and children. We will definitely go back. Spa facilities also good.

“ A great Cornish break ”
19th May
An excellent base from which to explore Newquay and Cornwall, especially suited to the younger family. The room was spacious, very comfortable with a great sea view. St Ives, St Austell and The Eden Project were all a short journey away. Newquay centre was a 20 minute walk away through beautiful scenery.

“ For families that don't have Grandparents/babysitters living close by...look no further!” ”
18th May
For families like us that don't have willing Grandparents/babysitters living close by and need a family break...look no further.
The best things Sands offers our family;
~ Children have their dinner in the early evening (and as everyone is in the same boat you don't feel uncomfortable if they make a bit of noise or mess!)
~ Adult meal together EVERY night followed by coffee in the sea view lounge (bliss)
~ On site leisure facilities (kids clubs, baby listening system, pools, gym, spa treatments, adventure playground, maze, TV lounge & more)

Obviously it can work out pricey, especially during high season, but it is TOTALLY worth it.
We are shortly returning for our 4th visit in 12 months.

“ A fantastic break for all of us ”
11th May
A really great hotel if you have children. The staff are really friendly, helpful and energetic. The rooms are modern, clean and we had a fantastic view. The baby listening meant my husband and I felt we had been out four nights on the trot! The spa has fantastic treatments and wonderful therapists. The food was really good and a varied menu meant we didn't get bored with going to the same restaurant.....the only disappoinment was some of the puddings didn't match up to the quality of the other courses...but that's being picky. A great holiday in a great location we shall definately go back!

“ A great holiday”
9th May
Having be caught up with the volcano ash and not able to fly, we booked last minute at this great hotel. We had a 2 bedroom room, which was great with two young children. The room was cleaned and tidied every day, which was lovely to come back to. The listening service was great, so we were able to enjoy an adult evening with great food the restaurant offered. They had an early tea for the children. We only used the kids club once but the staff were really friendly as were all the staff in the hotel with out exception. We used the pool every day, which was warm and clean.My husband really enjoyed having the golf on site too. Definatly recommend for a family with young children.

“ Very family friendly, we'll be back!”
29th April
We enjoyed a 3 night break in a very spacious, 2 bed ground floor "apartment". The baby listening service and the cheery staff on reception certainly left us at ease to enjoy good meals in the restuarant that overlooks the sea (after a quick drink in the bar watching the sunset first!) Our 2.5 year old loved the warm pool,and tried and loved gnocchi for the first time at children's tea time. Because the weather was so good we didn't make full use of the facilities, however they all looked great, the grounds are well kept and had lots to offer too. Will almost certainly stay again next time we come to Cornwall. Our room was cleaned and tidied each day, and we thought the way in which our daughters teddies etc were arranged ready for bed time was a lovely touch!
It was also a refreshing change to see all the staff happy in their work. Excellent.

“ Very comfortable and welcoming ”
28th April
We were made very welcome. Unfortunately didn't have time to use the facilities this time as we were helping our daughter move, but we will be back and intend to make use of the facilities next time !!

“Just Brilliant ”
27th April
Have stayed twice, both times out of school holidays, and Sands offers excellent value for money (and better than the sister hotel, Bedruthan Steps, just up the road). The large rooms looking out to the sea are really two rooms in one - one for the kids and one for the adults which means you don't have to creep around in fear of waking them. And the excellent baby listening service means you get to eat a fab evening meal in peace whilst watching the sun set over the sea! All the facilities are clean, well maintained and fun. The staff are all friendly and helpful and the children's clubs offer a welcome break but don't break the bank. The maze, play parks, golf, low-key evening entertainment, table tennis and games room contribute to having a busy but relaxing stay. The beach is a two minute drive down the hill and Watergate Bay is a 30 min cliff-top walk away (do-able with a Phil and Teds).

“ Brilliant hotel : family heaven ”
27th April
This was the first time we stayed at the Sands and we were very impressed. The staff are welcoming and can't do enough to help. The room was nicely presented and very clean and the maid service was lovely (with personal touches like the kids toys being tucked into bed and books laid out for reading!). We had hoped for a break but there was so much to do, the kids were up early ready for the obstacle course, maze, zip wire, table tennis, golf, climbing wall etc.... Not much sleeping in then, but for those of you with kids, you will know happy, occupied children is wonderful!! The tv and play station in the room came in handy as well though! The food (breakfast only) was good. Being able to borrow equipment for use both on site and on the beach was invaluable. Thanks for a great stay!

“ Great hotel - excellent value for money too!”
23rd April
We go to Sands regularly and we were pleased to see that their usual high standards have been maintained this year too: staff members are very friendly and welcoming, the rooms are clean, hotel facilities are excellent and the food is fantastic - delicious, locally sourced and beautifully presented. Ocean Breeze Spa is a gem. We would thoroughly recommend this hotel. Excellent value for money too.

“Quite a gem”
22nd April
I wish we knew about this hotel twenty years ago when our family were small.
We have travelled far and wide and stayed in all sorts of hotels.
Sands has so much to offer for a relaxing break away with the family.
The weather during our stay was perfect, beating all Eurpean destinations.
The informal relaxed atmosphere with a a very high standard offered both
simplicity yet sophistication and very good quality.
Can't wait for the next break!

"Absolutely Fantastic!!!”
22nd April
With 3 children we were looking for a nice hotel for a little bit of luxury but it had to be child friendly!!! Sands is by far the best UK break we have had with children, fantastic hotel, great rooms with a view to the sea, brilliant food and great service!! Highly recommend!

"Brilliant”
16th April
We stayed at Sands as part of an extended family to celebrate a Golden Wedding. Despite being a group of 22 we were well looked after; spacious rooms, suites, huge comfy beds and fabulous sea views. Mealtimes were complicated with age range from 4 to 74 and we chose to eat together, but it was all done done efficiently and with great humour. The food was absolutely superb and although it might seem pricey, it really isn't as you are getting something well above hotel catering standards - was told that management had decided to send perfectly good chefs to Paris for courses and the results were amazing. Nothing was too much trouble for any of the staff at any time and lots of facilities, games, wetsuit/body/surfboard hire etc was free rather than charged extra. We stayed on as a smaller group after most had gone and sampled the hotel in a different way - plenty of adult areas in the evening to escape from kids if you wanted to. All in all we couldn't fault anything and would not bother to look anywhere else to stay when down in Cornwall again. The website if anything underplays how good Sands really is.

"Very Family Friendly Hotel ”
16th April
We stayed at this hotel last september with our 3 month old son, they supplied all the bulky things that we didn't need to take (i.e travel cot, sterilser etc). The staff were very friendly when making the booking and very friendly when we arrived. It was very reasonably priced but it was in term time that we stayed. The food was outstanding and it was great to be in a designated dining area with children of the same age so it doesn't annoy any other people when your little one crys. It was also very easy to get everywhere from this location, you are about 5 mins drive from newquay and it is only a short drive to other lovely places cornwall has to offer. The babysitting service was great, which meant my husband and I could enjoy a night to ourselves. Definately recommend this hotel to anyone as it caters for all families with children of all ages, it would probably be a great place in the summer to go.

"Exceeded our expectation ”
14th April
My husband, ten year old son and I decided to go to Cornwall at the very last minute as the weather was good and we wantet to cycle the Camel trail. I found the Sands Hotel when I googled last minute breaks in Padstow. On the web site the hotel looked okay for a two night break and when I telephoned to make further enquiries the member of staff was very pleasant and helpful. So we jumped in the car and set off. On arrival I was rather concerned that the hotel was nearer Newquay and wondered what we would do with our bikes. No problem the Hotel has a bike shed ! The staff were polite, helpful and friendly, the food excellent and everything was very clean and in good repair. We stayed in a contempory suite which could have slept five and I would imagine be very suitable for a larger family. As a family who tends to do 4 star trips we were really impressed. The location is near some lovely beaches. We enjoyed cycling the Camel trail which took about fifteen minutes to drive to, had a 7am swim in the hotels small but adequate pool, played table tennis, pool, 9 hole golf and croquet, all included in the price ! Before we left we were shown around some of the other rooms and we fully intend to go back again with members of our extended family as we feel the hotel will be a lovely place to enjoy being together with something to offer everyone.

" Ideal for families with young children ”
14th April
I've just spent a week at this hotel with my partner and one year old and can really recommend it. They've obviously worked really hard to make it as easy as possible to look after your children. We loved the children's teas, pool and play areas. The baby listening service was great and allowed us to have a quiet dinner together. The food was excellent and the service can't be bettered. We had a room which has obviously just been decorated and it was very comfortable with an enormous bed. It's not ideal to have a cot right next to the door but this didn't prove to be a problem at all and if it is, they provide you with a travel cot. My one year old slept for 13-14 hours every night which is a record so I would recommend it just on this!!!