NEWQUAY

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.

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WATER & STONE

Woodfired sauna, hot tubs and ice baths combine to create a wonderful Nordic spa experience like no other. Relax privately with family or friends and embrace the known benefits to the mind and body. Not to be missed!

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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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OLLA HIKI SAUNA

Welcome to Olla Hiki Sauna, a wood-fired, mobile sauna that brings affordable sauna culture to Newquay and its surrounding places on the beach or on top of stunning cliffs. Offering communal and private sessions for everyBODY!

Lean back, sweat and relax. Check website to find it’s current location.

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ARBO SURFBOARDS

Bespoke wooden surf crafts based on postmodern and retro designs by Paul Reisberg. Join him in his studio for a build-your-own workshop. Keepin’ it DIY since 2010.

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BERYL E-BIKE HIRE

Cornwall's e-bike hire scheme offers a sustainable, affordable and fun way to travel. Taking a ride is simple, just download the Beryl app, create an account and you're ready to ride. It's as easy as app, tap, roll!

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cafes, bars & restaurants

WHISKERS

Family friendly by day, epic musical feast by night! Lots of art & wellness activities, workshops & events plus a kid’s play area so parents can kick back. Light up dance floor, psychedelic cat murals, delicious drinks and the best sound system in town. This place has it all! Check the schedule online.

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FORE STREET CAFE

Modern British brunch with plenty of gluten free and vegan options. Fully licensed with banging espresso coffees, Cornish teas, smoothies and superfood lattes. Cream teas, 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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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.

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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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LOST BREWING CO.

Cafe by day, bar by night, with 40+ craft beers (including their own!) and an extensive range of wines, spirits and cocktails. Banging breakfasts, buddha bowls and burgers. Some say the best burgers in town… we’ll let you decide!

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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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THE CELTIC LOUNGE

A bilingual, plant-based, community coffee shop. Regular workshops, themed evenings and live music. Hear the Cornish language being used and immerse in Celtic culture. Enjoy wholesome food, cake, coffee, loose leaf tea, wine or Celtic beer.

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HAKARI KITCHEN

A glorious selection of street food inspired by travels around the world. Find proper Canadian poutine, homemade smash burgers, kimchi fried rice, tasty vegan options, fresh seafood and rotisserie chicken (in the evenings). Beach eats done properly! Don't miss out!

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THE BOTTLE

The Bottle is a small bar and kitchen serving tapas, small plates, cheese and charcuterie boards. There’s a large selection of wines by the glass and bottle, beers, as well as a seasonal cocktail list with daily happy hour. There is something for everyone! Dog friendly.

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POCO LOCO BURITTO

Let Newquay's best burrito fuel your adventure. Expect flavour-packed burritos, nachos, and quesadillas crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options all on offer.

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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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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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SPROUT HEALTH FOODS

Eco-conscious, independent & locally sourced goods in this coffee shop & store with a beautiful courtyard. Big on vegan & gluten free, serving a daily lunch special. Go for the cake - stay for the atmosphere. There's nowhere else like it!

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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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SAND&PALM

Designed with the wellness of the individual, the community and the planet in mind, sand&palm create unique, high quality swim & surfwear from ocean plastic, designed & printed right here in Newquay! Also in store: a beautiful range of eco clothing, skincare, beach accessories, artwork & jewellery.

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WAKE + SEA

A wide range of fashion, polarised and sports sunglasses. With anywhere between 50 - 100 frame variations Readystock offer sunglasses to suit different budgets and tastes while retaining their commitment to quality.

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CLEMO BOOKS

Clemo Books is Newquay’s new independent bookshop. Find your next beach read here! Stocking Cornish classics, children’s literature, contemporary fiction & non-fiction. Join Clemo Club or attend their year-round events; they're curating books and creating community.

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Still stuck for things to do? Contact us to ask us for more info about Newquay.