Newquay cottages

Visit Newquay for world-class surfing, golden sand, and a fantastic selection of restaurants

Newquay is a haven for beach lovers, foodies, and surfers alike. A beach a day during your stay? This can be easily achieved during a self-catering holiday in Newquay, with its 15 bays in and around the lively surfers’ town. Popular nearby spots where we also have properties include the adrenaline-junkie favourites of Fistral and Watergate.

Crispy battered fish sizzle from grill to plate down at the harbour, while coffee and cocktails go down a treat in high-street favourites and independent pop-ups along the town’s main strip. Stroll along the sandy basin of the Gannel River at low tide, all the way to Crantock Beach and its striking sand dunes.  

Beach life

Fistral Beach

The long, sandy Fistral Beach is backed by towering sand dunes and is renowned as one of the UK’s top surfing destinations, offering consistent waves that attract surfers of all levels. 

Lifeguards

A lifeguard service operates from April to October. 

Dogs

At Fistral Beach, dogs are allowed all year round. 

Tolcarne Beach

Tolcarne Beach is a little quieter than Fistral Beach, making it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a more peaceful beach experience. 

Lifeguards

The beach is lifeguard-patrolled from May to September. 

Dogs

There is a dog ban on Tolcarne Beach from 1 April to 31 October. A little further afield, Crantock Beach and Watergate Bay are also well worth a visit. 

Top tip: If you’re visiting in June, seeing the blooming poppy fields with the Cornish coast as a backdrop at Polly Joke is an absolute must.

Where to eat and drink?

Lewinnick Lodge

Nestled above the cliffs of Pentire Headland, Lewinnick Lodge serves breakfast, lunch, and classic dishes, all accompanied by stunning sea views.

Zacry’s Restaurant

Zacry’s Restaurant at Watergate Bay (just a short drive from Newquay) serves British food made from Cornish ingredients, combining bold and interesting chargrilled flavours. 

The Fish House Fistral (included in the Michelin Guide)

Just a stone’s throw from the sea, The Fish House’s menu focuses on classic seafood dishes and drinks in a cosy, rustic setting. 

The Harbour Fish & Grill

Built into the cliff and overlooking the harbour, this restaurant offers fresh, locally sourced, fine-dining dishes. 

The Boathouse – Street Food on the Beach

This laid-back venue at Newquay Harbour is ideal if everyone in your party likes to eat different foods. With numerous food stalls serving street food and locally sourced dishes, everyone will find something to their liking.

Retail

For the perfect and unique shopping experience featuring bespoke and handcrafted products, visit The Killacourt, located in the heart of the town centre. 

Newquay boasts a number of pop-up farmers’ markets throughout the year, where independent Cornish businesses showcase their goods. 

As you stroll along the high street, you’ll encounter a mix of independent and specialist local shops, restaurants, and cafes, alongside national names, all interspersed with surf shops, boutiques, and supermarkets.

Beach Retreats recommends

Things to do in Newquay

Trerice

Trerice, just outside Newquay, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. The Elizabethan manor house, with its stunning architecture, period furnishings, and captivating artefacts, provides a unique glimpse into the opulence of the Elizabethan era. 

Trenance Gardens

Visit Trenance Gardens, featuring beautiful flora, peaceful lakes, and well-maintained walking paths. The adjacent leisure park offers a range of family-friendly activities, including a boating lake, mini-golf, and a play area. 

Sea safaris

Go on a sea safari with Newquay Sea Safaris. Discover hidden coves, explore secret beaches, and meet Cornwall’s wildlife up close in their natural habitat. Spot Cornish grey seals, see Newquay’s infamous dolphins, and, if you’re lucky, you might even see a shark. 

Outdoor adventures

Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, coasteering, jet skiing, diving, or fishing – if you like being active, you’ll never get bored in Newquay.

Walks

Take a stroll through Newquay (6 miles)

Starting from the harbour, it’s a steep hike up to the Huer’s Hut, where marvellous views await. Back along the cliff, you’ll walk past Towan Head, the legendary Fistral Beach, and on to Pentire Point. Rounding the headland, you begin heading back along the beautiful Gannel River, where trees and tropical gardens hug the cliffs down to the estuary. 

Holywell to Crantock (4.5 miles)

This circular footpath leads from the headland of Holywell Bay and meanders along the coast past Polly Joke, before continuing to the wide, golden sands of Crantock. During the summer months, the return journey takes you through fields of poppies. Part of the route takes you past the Bowgie Inn – a great stop for refreshments or a quick bite to eat. 

Bedruthan Steps (1 mile)

This short walk at Bedruthan Steps offers crisp, salty sea breezes, heart-pounding exercise, and a feast for the eyes. Owned and managed by the National Trust, you can start this walk from Carnewas Car Park. You’ll find a winding path that offers the best of the wild Atlantic, its birds, and wildlife.