BEACHES:
Polzeath, Rock and Daymer Bay are stunning sandy beaches,  just a 10 minute drive away
(or take the 96 bus 10 min walk from the house).
On the other side of the Camel Estuary you have more sandy beaches such as Trevone, Harlyn and Constantine Bay.

FISHING VILLAGES:
Port Isaac, with it's 500 year old harbour wall & Port Quin (the site of the TV series Doc Martin) are just a 5 minute drive away (or a 35 minute walk along footpaths across the fields).
Padstow, with its famous  Fish'n'Chips and variety of lovely shops, is reached by ferry from Rock or a 30 min drive.

HISTORY AND BOTANY:
Why not visit the ruins of Tintagel Castle fortress, built 1500 years ago and the site of the 12th century legend of King Arthur (just a 25 min drive away - book in advance).
For a family day out, visit the global botanical gardens in the extraordinary covered Biomes at the Eden Project, just a 45 minute drive away (book in advance). As well as amazing plants, there are zip wires and other thrills.