A guide to Newquay's beaches, surf and coast as a day trip from our campsite near Boscastle.
Newquay is Cornwall's surf capital, with a string of golden beaches, big Atlantic waves and a lively town centre. It's very different from the quiet harbour villages near Boscastle, and makes a fun day out, especially for surfers and families. Here's how to plan a visit from our campsite.
Where is Newquay?
Newquay is on the north coast of Cornwall, south-west of Padstow. From Lower Pennycrocker Farm, it's roughly 30 to 35 miles by road, via the A39 through Wadebridge. Allow around an hour, and longer in summer traffic.
The beaches
Newquay is known for its beaches. Here are some of the best known.
Fistral
Fistral is one of the most famous surf beaches in the UK. It faces west into the Atlantic, catching big swells, and is home to surf schools, surf shops and events. It's busy in summer, with lifeguards in the season.
Towan, Great Western and Tolcarne
These town beaches sit below the cliffs in the town centre. At low tide, some connect along the sand. They're sheltered compared to Fistral and popular with families.
Lusty Glaze
Lusty Glaze is a cove reached by steps down the cliff, surrounded by high cliffs.
Watergate Bay
Just north of Newquay, Watergate Bay is a long, wide beach popular with surfers, kitesurfers and families.
Crantock
Across the Gannel estuary from Newquay, Crantock is a sandy beach backed by dunes. Take care around the estuary, where currents can be strong.
Always check lifeguard cover and swim between the red and yellow flags. See our beach safety and tides guide.
Surfing in Newquay
Newquay is one of the best places in the UK to learn to surf. There are many surf schools offering lessons for all ages and abilities. Book ahead in summer. Read our surf camping guide for more tips.
The Huer's Hut
The Huer's Hut is a small whitewashed building on the headland above the harbour. It was used by a "huer", who watched for shoals of pilchards and called the fishermen out. It's a lovely viewpoint over the bay.
The harbour
Newquay's small harbour sits below the town, with fishing boats and views across the bay. It's a quieter corner of the town.
Other attractions
Newquay has several family attractions, including a zoo and an aquarium, as well as cafés, restaurants, shops and bars. Check opening times and tickets before you go.
Trerice
A short drive from Newquay, Trerice is an Elizabethan manor house looked after by the National Trust. Check opening times before you go.
Coast path walks
The South West Coast Path runs around Newquay's headlands. Walk from the town out to Towan Head, at the end of Fistral, for wide views along the coast. Further north, the path from Watergate Bay towards Mawgan Porth follows the clifftops with beautiful views. Wear good shoes, keep away from the cliff edges and check the weather before you set out. See our coast path guide for walks closer to the campsite.
Parking
Newquay has several car parks in the town and near the beaches. They fill up quickly in summer, so arrive early.
With kids
Newquay is great for families, with sheltered town beaches, rock pools, surf lessons for older children, and attractions. See our camping with kids guide.
With dogs
Many Newquay beaches have seasonal dog restrictions in summer. Check the latest rules before you go. Out of season, many beaches welcome dogs.
A day plan
- Leave the campsite early.
- Book a morning surf lesson at Fistral.
- Have lunch in town or at the beach.
- Spend the afternoon on a town beach or at Watergate Bay.
- Walk out to the Huer's Hut for the view.
- Drive home along the coast.
What to bring
- Swimwear, a towel and a wetsuit if you have one.
- Suncream and a hat.
- Warm layers for after the beach.
- Water and snacks.
Events
Newquay hosts surf competitions and the Boardmasters festival in August. Traffic and accommodation get very busy. See our Cornwall events by month guide.
Why visit from Boscastle?
Newquay offers a lively contrast to the quiet coast near Boscastle, with big surf beaches and lots to do. It's perfect for a day when you want energy and activity, before coming back to the peace of our farm campsite.
Combine with nearby places
Combine Newquay with Padstow or Wadebridge on the way home.
Staying nearby
Our farm campsite near Boscastle is a quiet base for days out across North Cornwall. Adults are £10 per night and children 5 and over are £5. Read our North Cornwall day trips guide.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Newquay from Boscastle?
Roughly 30 to 35 miles from our campsite, usually around an hour by car.
What is the best surf beach in Newquay?
Fistral is the most famous, but Watergate Bay is also popular.
Can I learn to surf in Newquay?
Yes. There are many surf schools. Book ahead in summer.
Are dogs allowed on Newquay beaches?
Many have seasonal dog restrictions. Check before you go.
Staying a week? Follow our north Cornwall 7-day itinerary.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
