Newquay, a picturesque coastal town, is famed for its stunning beaches and breathtaking coastal scenery, attracting tourists and surfers from all over.
With numerous beaches to explore, it can be challenging to know where to start. To make your visit to this lovely part of the world more enjoyable, we’ve compiled a guide to 9 of Newquay’s best beaches.
Quick Tip:
When the tide is low, the first four beaches on our list blend into one large stretch known as “the bay.” This spot is ideal for vacationers wanting to swim or beginner surfers seeking a safe and enjoyable experience.
Towan
The closest beach to the harbour, Towan, boasts an island with a picturesque house, often seen in photographs. Easily accessible by a slipway, this sheltered beach is considered the safest, making it a popular choice for beginner surf schools.
Great Western
Just beyond Towan, Great Western Beach offers another slipway for easy access. It features a couple of cafes for refreshments and is a favorite among surfers. The Great Western Hotel overlooks the bay, providing a perfect spot for a relaxing drink in the beer garden.
Tolcarne
Opposite the Great Western Hotel’s beer garden, Tolcarne Beach is another surfers’ favorite and the author’s top pick.
Access the beach via a slipway or steps (100-200 in total). Tolcarne’s unique feature is its on-beach amenities, including The Wedge cafe, toilets, and The Colonial restaurant. With cliffs on three sides, this beach often provides a wind-sheltered spot for visitors.
Lusty Glaze
This privately owned, secluded beach remains open to the public. Although the concept of owning a beach might seem odd, Lusty Glaze offers a beautiful wedding venue with a hefty price tag. Access the beach via steps or stroll over from Tolcarne when the tide is low.
Porth
Not officially part of the bay, Porth can be accessed from Lusty Glaze during extremely low tides. This family-friendly beach is set back from the open sea, providing a sheltered area for children to play. Porth also has a beachside car park and the Mermaid Pub, which serves delicious burgers and chips.
Whipsiderry
A local surfers’ paradise, Whipsiderry Beach is accessed by a steep, cliff-side staircase. The challenging break, with waves moving from left to right, makes it a perfect spot for surf enthusiasts. However, the beach is not recommended for families with young children.
Fistral
Fistral, the crown jewel of Newquay’s beaches, is situated on the town’s north coast. Famed for its exceptional surf conditions, Fistral draws experienced surfers and offers ample parking (at a cost) and several beachside restaurants. Children can enjoy lifeguard-patrolled waters in the summer and rock pools for paddling. Fistral is located next to the golf course on the map.
Crantock
This secluded beach lies on Newquay’s west coast, at the end of the River Gannel. Despite its beauty, Crantock is known for its dangerous currents caused by the river’s flow. Visitors should be cautious when swimming and avoid fighting against any undertow. Instead, swim to the side to escape the current.
Watergate
Although located about 2 miles from Newquay, Watergate Bay is still considered a local beach. The former site of Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant, Watergate offers a lengthy stretch of sand, ample parking, and a coffee shop in the car park for a quick pick-me-up. Its picturesque setting makes it a popular destination for beachgoers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Conclusion
Newquay boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The ideal beach for you depends on the day’s weather and wind direction. If it’s a windy day, you’ll likely find shelter in the bay.
On a beautiful, sunny day, there’s nothing better than spending time at Fistral. No matter which beach you choose to visit, you’re sure to create lasting memories in this stunning coastal town.
