Enjoy a summer stay in the Sea Angel vintage beach chalet in St Ives, Cornwall.

Enjoy a summer staycation in the Sea Angel vintage beach chalet in St Ives, Cornwall, pictured, with Beachhuts.com.

New figures show that demand for holiday lets soared last year, with bookings in coastal areas of Cornwall reaching record highs. Cornwall was the peak August destination and the second most in demand throughout the year.

Lily Smith, a leading travel expert from BeachHuts.com, says: "'Fortunately, many seaside areas of Cornwall boast beach huts that are a great alternative to holiday lets and expensive hotels. What's more, they won't deprive locals of a home. Thousands of these are dotted around many of Britain's favourite seaside resorts. They provide the perfect ethical alternative to holiday lets and hotels. Beach huts need very little infrastructure, and their bright appearance often adds character to an area."

Lily adds, "Beach huts provide an ideal base for a visit to the seaside. Not only are they ideal for a long daytrip – providing a base to change, make a cuppa and have a meal without having to rent accommodation – but you can actually stay in many overnight. As one example of a perfect alternative to traditional accommodation in Cornwall, Sea Angel vintage beach chalet in St Ives is a delightful holiday escape that you can stay in overnight. Nestled on top of a cliff, it's a three-minute walk through the sand dunes to the award-winning Gwithian Beach. Boasting Cath Kidston-style décor, it comes complete with a double bedroom and bunk bed galley. There's a microwave, fridge and TV as well. It's currently available for £125 for an overnight stay and even in Cornwall's August peak this only rises to £150.

https://www.beachhuts.com/overnight-beach-huts-for-rent.html