The vibrant holiday town of Newquay, on the north coast of Cornwall, became popular for its laidback surfing culture combined with raucous party life. Newquay has recently shaken off its reputation as a party town with the emergence of a fantastic selection of lively eateries and bohemian boutiques and has plenty of family activities on offer.

The surf beaches and pristine coastline have won Newquay its salubrious, present-day status as a chic destination for active types, families and weekend breakers seeking relaxation and all manner of water sports and activities.

Newquay holds crowning position as the UK’s surfing capital, but which are the best beaches in Newquay? With more than 10 beaches to choose from, Newquay has the perfect patch of sand for everyone, whether it’s the families exploring the rockpools on Towan, the dog walkers who love the wide open space of Crantock or the adventure seekers who head for Great Western and Fistral.

What are the best things to do in Newquay? Check out our guide below to find out. Download our Newquay map or pick up a paper version at any of the following places too.

THINGS TO DO

FISTRAL BEACH SURF SCHOOL

As the only surf school & hire located on Fistral Beach, this surf school is perfectly located to make the most of your beach time. Lessons and surf hire available for all abilities. Open all year round.
Phone Location Website

lady-wedge-studio-mug-decorating-newquay-cornwall — WEDGE STUDIO

Wedge studio is a contemporary, relaxed pottery studio. Offering a range of courses, experiences and private group sessions. Ranging from two hours to eight weeks, there's something for everyone. Learn ceramics from the comfort of their 1970s inspired workshop.
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BIG NEWQUAY MARKET

With around 50 indie creators and curators of artisan food & drink, contemporary craft, art & design, sustainable home, fashion & lifestyle wares and vintage finds alongside live music, community connections, creative sessions and resident business specials, it’s not to be missed.
Usually held on Bank Street & Killacourt.
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THE LEVELS

Discover a vibrant creative hub where visitors can explore inspiring exhibitions, shop unique pieces from local makers, and enjoy walk-in workshops for all ages and abilities - including glass making with Dreya Glass.
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OLLA HIKI sauna

Welcome to Olla Hiki Sauna, a wood-fired mobile sauna bringing affordable sauna culture to Newquay’s beaches and cliffs. Enjoy communal or private sessions and special events for EveryBODY. Lean back, sweat and relax. Check the website for current location.
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SAUNASSA

Saunassa is a Nordic spa in Newquay offering wood-fired & infrared saunas, hot tubs, and cold plunge pools. A local hangout focused on wellbeing and recovery, it provides a relaxing outdoor experience inspired by Scandinavian tradition, accessible to everyone year-round.
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cafes, bars & restaurants

FORE STREET CAFE

Modern British brunch with plenty of gluten free and vegan options. Fully licensed for fabulous bloody Mary’s. Banging espresso coffees, Cornish teas, smoothies and superfood lattes. Luxurious pancakes and great cakes including a vegan selection. Dog friendly, child friendly, generally very friendly!
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THE BREW & TATTOO

Walk-in flash tattoos and piercings. No bookings required. Split over two floors, a lively modern studio with coffee house and sun garden. Summer evening cocktail bar from 6pm when the clock has the say on the price you pay.
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Cream-Tea-Cafe-Cloud-Newquay-Little-Birdie-Guides — CAFE CLOUD

Sit back and relax in this wonderful, quaint cafe with a vintage twist, just up from Newquay Harbour. Find lovely breakfasts, home-made waffles, sandwiches, toasties, cakes, quiches, sundaes and the best cream tea in town! Lots of gluten free options and a vegan selection available. Dogs always welcome.
Phone Location Facebook

burger-fries-beer-street-art-lost-brewing-newquay — LOST BREWING CO.

The local hang-out. Crafting their own beers & handmade burgers, alongside a range of cocktails and wine. Probably the best burgers in town!
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secret-garden-restaurant-newquay-sea-view — SECRET GARDEN

Offering the most delicious & unique pizza, wine & cocktails in town. Secret Garden has stunning ocean views, a secluded garden terrace and vibrant sunset sessions where the best DJs bring the vibes. But don't forget, it's a secret...shhhhh!
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GINGER & JOE

A relaxed surf style cocktail bar & restaurant. G&J offers small plates, craft cocktails, local beers & coffee. Sit back, relax and watch the world go by in a bar that will transport you to Bali.
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PROJECT 83

Cool converted garage - Drop by for a coffee or beer, all day breakfast or delicious street food in the courtyard. Winner of Cornwall’s best bar: Look out for gigs, markets and other exciting events! Bike night every Thursday. Live music every Friday & Saturday. Dog friendly.
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Hakari Kitchen food hatch in Newquay Cornwall — HAKARI KITCHEN

A glorious selection of takeaway street food inspired by travels around the world. Find proper homemade smash burgers, kimchi fried rice, tasty vegan options, fresh Cornish seafood and cold Bluntrock beers. Beach eats done properly!
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THE CLOVER CLUB

New slick bar & restaurant in the middle of town. Share incredible small plates from the ever changing menu, or try a cocktail or soft serve ice cream.
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PIZZA JOCKEYS

Don’t miss these sassy Cornish Dough Spinners. Serving up authentic sourdough neopolitan pizzas using locally sourced, high quality ingredients. Great music, chilled atmosphere, and of course super delicious pizzas!
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SHOPS

THE GOOD LYFE

Plastic-free refills (food, laundry and personal care), organic children’s clothing and ethical home & lifestyle products. Spreading good vibes while looking after the planet… it’s shopping for the conscious consumer.

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TREVILLEY FARM SHOP

A must visit for a real taste of Cornwall offering a mouth-watering array of food. A wide range of local meat – perfect for the BBQ – and fresh produce from their on-site kitchen, the pasties are not to be missed!
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CLEMO BOOKS

Clemo Books is found on the corner of Bank Street and just a two minute walk from Towan beach. Stocking the latest fiction, non-fiction, Cornish inspired titles, YA and children’s literature. Find your next beach read here!
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RIDE & DEFY FT. KNUCKLEHEADS

The very finest protective motorcycle gear for men and women, alongside curated lifestyle apparel and accessories.Knuckleheads is the in-store barbershop. Newquay’s finest.
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ALL THINGS CORNWALL

The best of the best locally sourced food, artisan crafts, clothes, alcohol, flowers, books and music! So many Cornish treasures to choose from - If you’re looking for a keepsake or gift, you’ll not leave empty handed! Taste of the West ‘Best Specialist Retailer 2025’
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Still stuck for things to do? Contact us to ask us for more info about Newquay.

NEWQUAY

NEWQUAY

THINGS TO DO

cafes, bars & restaurants

SHOPS

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