It’s fair to say that Newquay is blessed with quite a few gorgeous beaches, so it’s difficult to know where to start! Whether you want the classic Newquay surf experience or a relaxed sunbathe in the dunes, the range of beaches will surprise you. To inspire your next trip, take a look at our quick guide.

…and while you’re here, why not stay in one of our gorgeous homes or apartments?

Crantock Beach

Starting at the western end of Newquay, Crantock Beach is surrounded by dunes on one side, and the Gannel Estuary and the Pentire peninsula on the other. Owned by the National Trust, the abundance of nature makes this place feel a world away from the bustling town beaches.

Features: Seasonal lifeguard cover, dog friendly all year round
Great for: Paddleboarding and swimming in the Gannel
Stay at: The Gem, with views of the beach and access to the Gannel

Fistral Beach

Newquay’s most famous beach, Fistral is the home of British surfing with lots of competitions being hosted here, including the Boardmasters Surf Championships and National Surf Championships. And if you don’t fancy taking to the waves, there’s lots of space to roll out a beach towel and relax.

Features: Seasonal lifeguard cover, dog friendly all year round
Great for: Surfing and learning to surf!
Stay at: The Pearl, with views of the beach and Headland Hotel

Towan Beach

Right in the heart of Newquay, this is probably Newquay’s most characterful beach. The pretty harbour and fishing boats are a lovely reminder of why the town is here, and “The Island” landmark with its quirky suspension bridge.

Features: Seasonal lifeguard cover, dog friendly all year round
Great for: Food and drink, beginner’s waves and learning to surf

Great Western and Tolcarne Beach

Under the town’s towering cliffs, these beaches are very accessible from the town. Like Towan, they are more sheltered from the swell, making them popular with families. At low tide you probably won’t recognise them as they all join up with Towan Beach to form an endless expanse of sandy space.

Features: Great Western has no lifeguard cover and is dog friendly. Tolcarne has seasonal lifeguard cover and has a seasonal dog ban.
Great for: cliffs are sheltered from the winds, accessible from the town

Lusty Glaze Beach

Lusty Glaze is a satisfying crescent-shaped beach, privately-owned but accessible to the public. The bar and restaurant gives it a distinctly relaxed vibe, and it was crowned “Beach of the Year” by The Sunday Times in 2017.

Features: Seasonal lifeguard cover and seasonal dog ban.
Great for: “sundowners” at the bar, a quiet escape from the bustle of Newquay town
Stay at: The Pebble Beach Apartment, which is impressively close to this sandy paradise!

Porth Beach

On the other end of Newquay’s town limits lies the sheltered Porth Beach. Low tide reveals a long sandy inlet with lots of rock pools to explore, making it popular with families.

Features: Seasonal lifeguard cover and seasonal dog ban.
Great for: sheltered bathing, rock pooling and sand castles

And further afield… Holywell Bay

Not far from Newquay town, south of Crantock, is this stunning National Trust beach. Characterised by its towering dunes and iconic Gull Rocks out to sea. You’ll notice this part of the coast is very rural compared to other Newquay beaches on this list. Park at the National Trust car park, which is short walk away.

Features: Seasonal lifeguard cover
Great for: chilling, surfing and exploring the dunes
Stay at: Samphire Beach House