Nested in a sheltered bay and just a 20-minute walk from Newquay town centre, Porth Beach is a great spot for families with children. Whether they want to discover rockpools rich in sealife, build sandcastles all day or explore Porth Island nearby, they’re sure to be amused.
If you’re a swimmer, this beach is great, as it’s lifeguarded between 10 and 6pm every day in the summer. It’s worth mentioning that you can’t surf on this beach during these times, so while the kids have the sea to themselves, don’t pack your surfboard!
Porth Island itself can be accessed via a narrow footbridge – you’ll come across prehistoric earthworks and the remains of a settlement. It’s a great place to smell the fresh sea air and take some photos, but try not to get splashed by the blowhole!
For those who like a bit of shopping, head to Roo’s Beach, a fairly new beachside boutique that offers men and women a stylish alternative to beachwear, although you can still wonder in wearing flip-flops so don’t worry. It sells some gorgeous clothes and great little gifts so be sure to check it out.
If you want a bite to eat, head to The Mermaid. It’s a family friendly pub on the beach offering a great menu at reasonable prices. It also hosts great evening entertainment with several up and coming bands in Cornwall. There are also a few little shops dotted around selling the essentials like cold drinks and hot drinks.
The beach itself is easily accessible – the coastpaths both to Watergate Bay and back to Newquay are fairly flat and uncover beautiful views, so it’s worth walking if you’re debating what to how to get there. Alternatively, you can drive down and park straight on the beach. Enjoy your trip!
