Ready for an education in local botany? Lost Gardens of Heligan should make your list of places to visit, located 4.3 mi (7 km) from central St Austell. Why not take a stroll along the port and watch the sunset while you're here? Want to stretch your legs some more? Head to Caerhays Castle and Pinetum Park and Pine Lodge Gardens, both nearby.
Whether you want to collect beach glass or watch the sunset, Porthpean Beach is a spot you might want to check out, located 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from central Saint Austell Bay. Catch the sunset by the shore at Duporth Beach, just a short walk away.