Your guide to exploring Newquay

From trendy beach bars promising gorgeous sunset views to hidden tidal pools away from the crowds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the laid-back surf culture of the area, whilst exploring all the seaside town has to offer. Book a getaway together and fall in love with Newquay this summer.  

Wander along the coastal path

Whatever the season, you can’t go wrong with a walk along the Southwest Coast Path, but it can be difficult to narrow down where to start. Put your best foot forward, lace up your hiking boots and wander along the coastline from Newquay to the famous Fistral headland and onto Crantock. This moderate 4.5-mile circular walk will provide you with breath-taking views of the rugged Cornish landscape, the waves crashing beneath you providing the perfect soundtrack to this scenic walk.  

Need to fuel up? Tuck into delicious sourdough pizzas and freshly baked cakes at the Jam Jar, perfectly pair with an Aperol Spritz and make the very most of the Cornish sunshine.  

Top tip: Be sure to check the tide times before making this trek or swap the Gannel for the Fern Pit ferry.

Brave the cold with a dip, Wim Hof style

The Atlantic might not be the warmest of seas but if you’re feeling brave, a dip in the big blue is one of the best ways to start your day. You’ll be spoilt for choice with glorious beaches in every direction - a stunning view certainly takes the edge of the cold!  

Two of our favourite beaches for a swim are the sheltered beaches of Lusty Glaze and The Harbour. With a stay at the Great Western, you’ll also have easy access to the Great Western Beach. Whilst slightly less sheltered, this beautiful stretch is right on your doorstep making it the ideal spot for a morning wake-up dip and you can race back up the winding path for a warm shower!  

Watch the sunset over the bay with a drink in hand

Located on the North Coast of Cornwall, Newquay welcomes some of the most stunning sunset views. Hues of pink, yellow and red glisten on the ocean, making it the perfect backdrop to a romantic drink (or two!).  

There are dozens of spots around the coastline, from Fistral Beach Bar sat on the famous surf hub to the recently refurbished Fort Inn perched at the end of town. Sip on your favourite drink, whether it be a cocktail or korev, and take in the stunning sunset views over the bay.  

Surf's up!

It’s impossible to not mention Newquay’s famous surf scene as the UK’s surf capital. Thousands flock every year to catch the consistently perfect waves crashing onto the sandy beaches, and it’s well worth joining in on the action.  

There are surf schools on several beaches with everything you need to get kitted out and start carving up waves in no time. Summer also brings with it the annual Boardmasters Festival. While in part a popular music festival that attracts global artists, it is also the UK’s most high-profile surfing event. 

Enjoy a beach BBQ

There’s nothing better than a BBQ on the beach as the evening rolls in. Dine al fresco and feast by the sea; disposable BBQs are permitted on all council-owned beaches, including the Great Western.  

You can’t find a better spot in Cornwall for your evening meal. Be on the lookout for dolphins, seals and porpoises too as you tuck in, commonly spotted around the coastline. What more could you want?

Cosy up at the drive-in cinema

Running from July until September, you can enjoy your favourite films with the stunning Watergate Bay as your backdrop. From cult classics to big wave documentaries, get ready for the ultimate drive-in experience complete with street food trucks and craft beer.  

It’s a unique cinema viewing unlike any other, just be sure to get there early to secure your spot! Pack a few blankets too to make your car extra cosy for the evening and snuggle up under the stars. 

Surfing not for you? Try coasteering

Whilst surfing tends to take centre stage, it’s not for everyone. If surfing isn’t up your street, why not try your hand at coasteering? An unforgettable experience, explore the coastline of Newquay up close and personal. Under expert supervision, you’ll jump, swim and climb around remote areas of the coast that you wouldn’t be able to access otherwise.  

Strap in for an epic three-hour adventure and get your adrenaline pumping, it’ll be an experience you’ll remember together for a long time to come. 

Dance the night away

As we’ve already mentioned, summer brings Boardmasters to Newquay. Enjoy popular acts in the Cornish sunshine, spending your mornings taking in the views of Watergate Bay. Aside from this festival, you’ll also find an array of other music events throughout the calendar year. From Skybar to Bands in the Sands, you can dance the night away, joining in with the infamous nightlife of Newquay.  

Tuck into some freshly caught seafood

Is a visit to the Cornish coast complete without a seafood feast? You’ll find delicious, freshly caught platters throughout the town but few come close to that of The Fish House. A popular Michelin-star restaurant, it’s a must-visit whilst in the area. Vegans can also enjoy a range of dishes from tempura to linguine.  

Wander back and enjoy a nightcap in our stunning bar area before drifting off to sleep in our Cornish-inspired rooms, ready for another day of adventure in Newquay.