Known for the strong surf and beautiful seafront, Newquay is a popular holiday destination for those looking to escape to the coast. With a busy high street, a variety of rad surf shops and plenty of delicious restaurants, it’s no wonder Newquay is so popular amongst holiday goers.
On our trip to Cornwall, the two of us opted to make Newquay our base. Seeing as though it is centrally located, we were able to easily hop in our car and reach most of the iconic Cornwall stops within a matter of minutes.
Although it is definitely a bit busier than other parts of Cornwall, we were happy to spend our first trip here. We had the chance to spend quiet mornings along the beach and then alternatively, enjoy a late-night out at one of the best bars in Cornwall. However, that being said, we will likely opt for somewhere a bit more mellow, less crowded the next time we return.
Watershed Surf Shop
If you enjoy surf shops and want to pick up an iconic piece to remember your trip to the coast, be sure to stop at Watershed Surf Shop. The vibe inside the store reminded us so much of California and they had a super rad selection of clothing and accessories. This was a must for the ultimate Cornwall holiday guide.
Fistral Beach
Famously known to be one of the most popular beaches for surfers in Cornwall, Fistral Beach is a really great place to stop and watch them in action. The beach is quite large with warm sand. We actually stayed near this beach, so we enjoyed walking along the water in the evening. Fistral Beach is also a good place to watch the sunset!
Bedruthan Steps
This stunning stretch of coastline is under the National Trust. It is a really beautiful place to park up and look out! Although as of recently the beach below has been closed off due to cliff falling. Therefore, be sure to admire it at a distance from above!
Newquay Zoo
The largest zoo in Cornwall and home to even lions! This zoo holds over 130 different species and is a great place to spend the day with family, especially if you have kids!
Blue Reef Aquarium
This is your chance to get up close and personal with beautiful sea life! Explore over 40 naturally themed habitats and learn all about our big blue ocean and the creatures that live under the water. Check them out here.
Japanese Garden
If you enjoy gardening and plants in particular, definitely be sure to stop by the Japanese Garden. This garden has bamboo forests, a water garden and a pavilion perfect for walking around.
Surf Lessons
Newquay is the surf capital of England. If you are looking for the best place to learn, this is definitely the spot. You can book in surf lessons, or rent a board on your own and try your hand! You can find surf schools and camps at Fistral Beach, Watergate Bay and Crantock Beach.
Porth Beach
This is the best beach in Newquay for families, or those looking to swim. With more gentle surf, this place is safer for swimming and relaxing with the family.
Huer’s Hut
Sat atop a cliff, this white stone structure used to be home to monks back in the day. In the 1300s these monks would light a beacon to warn ships of the cliffside below
Food & Drink in Newquay
Tom Thumb
Hands down the best cocktail bar we have ever been to…and we are not exaggerating. We had heard good things about this cosy speakeasy online, but little did we know how unbelievably mindblowing the drinks would actually be. We could’nt not put this in the ultimate cornwall holiday guide.
Tucked away in the streets of Newquay, this unique bar serves up not only incredible classics but unique mixes as well. The menu itself is displayed in an old children’s storybook and the interior transports you to another world.
We actually had the pleasure of meeting the owner Jamie when we were there and instantly felt his passion for mixology. It was clear how much love he put into this space and the attention to detail he places in every cocktail he serves.
Drinks We Ordered:
King on the Wire: mezcal, triple sec, blueberry, and sage ketchup
Jumbo the Savior: gin, plantation pineapple rum, gorse, and pineapple shrub
Espresso Martini: classic, but so incredible
Dry Gin Martini: super refined and tasty
Tom Thumb recently won Tripadvisor Travellers Choice 2020 and it is definitely well deserved.
If you want to see more about this bar, be sure to give them a follow on Instagram. Jamie also does a cocktail series on there, so you can learn how to make your very own A+ cocktail.
Box and Barber
This was our favourite cafe in Newquay. The breakfast food selection was incredible and the coffee was really tasty as well. If you are looking for a delicious smoothie, matcha tea, or avocado toast, this place is for you!
The Slope
If you are craving a burger, definitely check out The Slope. They have a really fun menu with a wide variety of burgers and even fantastic vegan/vegetarian options for guests as well.
The Fistral Stable
This restaurant was located near our hotel so it was a perfect place to go for dinner. We loved the pizza selection along with the views of the ocean inside. A pretty good place to check out if you are in the Newquay area.
The Boathouse
A relaxed street food market located on Newquay harbour. This place offers up some of the freshest seafood and local catches of the day.
Hotels in Newquay
The Fistral Beach Hotel
This adult-only hotel was the perfect place for us to stay and escape the chaos! We loved the overall vibe of this hotel and not to mention the location! With sea views from our room and walking distance from the heart of Newquay, we couldn’t have picked a better place ourselves. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, and the staff were really friendly and accommodating. To read more about our stay at The Fistral Beach Hotel, click here.
Watergate Bay
A super trendy and beautiful hotel that also features oceanfront rooms. The hotel is really beautiful and even has a really incredible restaurant attached.
Lewinnick Lodge
This is a boutique hotel option for those looking in the Newquay area. A perfect place to stay for some extra rest and relaxation. For avalibility Click Here.
You can read our ultimate guide to Cornwall here. In it, we break down each area of Cornwall so that you can select the region that best suits you to stay!
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