Beaches in Newquay

The UK’s most famous surfing location, Fistral Beach is always worth a visit. Whether you want to ride Atlantic rollers or enjoy more conventional seaside pursuits, this popular, west facing, dune-backed stretch of golden sand will not disappoint. It hosts many national and international surfing competitions which, during summer months, draw thousands of spectators to its shoreline, creating a real buzz on the beach.

Newquay's picturesque and historic port also offers a small but perfectly formed beach which gets much smaller at high tide!  The Harbour is a favourite spot with families because it's so sheltered and offers safe bathing. It’s also where the RNLI launch their sea rescues so be prepared to see the courageous volunteer crew leap into one of Newquay‘s lifeboats to respond to a shout which could save a life or two.

Towan is the beach closest to the town centre where it can be accessed by steps down from the Killacourt or via a short but steep incline at the end of Beach Road. Because of its central position, this area does get busy with those seeking the more traditional beach activities and it’s where you will find Newquay’s most photographed landmark - The Island, a rocky outcrop with a private residence perched on its peak.

At low tide beach users can walk from Towan Beach pass The Island to reach Great Western Beach but when the tide is in, this area can be approached from Cliff Road down a steep slope located next to the Great Western Hotel. The cliffs backing this beach give shade in the afternoons.

Walk further along Cliff Road for steps or a steep winding slope down to Tolcarne Beach, with its brightly painted beach huts. This crescent shaped bay offers more than just golden sand and easy swimming. The famous Tolcarne Wedge is ideal for boogie boarding.

Enjoy the spectacular views over Newquay Bay and beyond on the short stroll across the Barrowfields towards the beach at Lusty Glaze and its unique beachside complex. Reached by a steep flight of steps, this lovely horseshoe-shaped cove offers an almost infinite selection of exciting water, cliff and land based activities.  A good beach for novice surfers.

Popular with visitors with walking difficulties, Porth Beach is level with the road and allows some parking on the sands. It’s ideal for families, offering safe bathing and a sheltered location.

The long walk down steep steps at Whipsiderry Beach could be a small price to pay should you crave a quieter location and, if can do without the usual beach facilities, then this is the beach for you.

You’ll need walking boots, or a scenic bus ride, to reach the beach at Watergate Bay. This glorious stretch of golden sand offers an abundance of waterborne and beach based activities aimed to thrill the most jaded adrenaline junky.  If your heart craves excitement but your body is content with the couch, this is the beach to enjoy some spectacular spectator sports!

Some 5.5 miles (8.9km) out of Newquay, this large expanse of pale golden sand at Mawgan Porth is framed by towering cliffs and sand dunes and offers both space and seclusion.

For nature at its most natural head to the Gannel Estuary where the river forms a biological barrier between Newquay and Crantock. This very special area of salt marshes and mud flats supports a diversity of wildlife. Enjoy a visit but be respectful of its ecological sensitivity. The river is tidal and a dangerous place to swim or wade.  Be safe - buy a tide timetable, plan a walk around the estuary avoiding high tide!

On the other side of the Gannel Estuary lays the magnificent Crantock Beach. This wide stretch of golden sand is backed by tufted dunes, offering perfect picnic hollows at high tide or on a breezy day.  Be aware the righthand side of the beach meets the RIver Gannel estuary so to avoid resulting currents it is advisable to bathe towards the left of this lovely bay.

To the west of Newquay, without road access, lays Porth Joke, fondly known as Polly Joke. This secluded, beautiful beach has a charming little bridge, evocative of a Winnie the Pooh story. So much so, one expects to see Pooh sticks floating down the trickling stream and out to sea. Definitely worth the hike from West Pentire. It's ideal for picnic lovers as there's no food outlets - or loos! A real Robinson Cruso adventure.

Even at high tide there is plenty of space on the beach at Holywell Bay which can be found 5½ miles (8.9km) away from Newquay town centre.  The stream that meanders down from a wonderful backdrop of dunes to meet the sea provides a natural paddling area for children and, all in all, it’s a great beach for families.  Please note there are no food or toilet facilities on Holywell Bay beach.