Certified B Corp Book for £100 20% off Easter breaks Certified B Corp Book for £100 20% off Easter breaks Certified B Corp Book for £100 20% off Easter breaks
Golden sand and crystal sea
Crantock

Crantock Holiday Cottages

Our Crantock holiday cottages provide the ideal base for exploring one of Cornwall’s most enchanting coastal spots. Nestled just south of Newquay, Crantock Beach is a breathtaking expanse of golden sands, bordered by the serene Gannel Estuary and rugged headlands. This unspoilt gem offers a tranquil escape, with its sheltered cove making it perfect for families and beach lovers alike.

At low tide, the beach reveals fascinating rock pools and hidden caves, ready to be discovered by curious adventurers. For those seeking a more active escape, Crantock is a haven for surfers and paddleboarders, with its gentle waves and natural beauty. Beyond the beach, the quaint village of Crantock offers charming pubs and tea rooms, while the surrounding cliffs and coastal paths provide spectacular views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Stay here, and you’ll experience a slice of Cornish paradise.

View guide to Crantock

Retreats coming soon!

The crantock guide

Sheltered surf and serene waters

Crantock Beach, tucked away south of Newquay, is a haven for water enthusiasts. Its gently rolling waves offer an inviting playground for beginner surfers, while the calmer waters near the Gannel Estuary make it a favourite spot for paddleboarders and kayakers. Lifeguards patrol the beach in summer, ensuring safe fun for all the family. With the right conditions, you can paddle up the estuary at high tide, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the surrounding dunes and salt marshes.

If a relaxing dip is more your style, the clear waters of Crantock Beach are perfect for sea swimming. Whether it’s a refreshing morning plunge or a golden-hour swim, the tranquillity of the bay will leave you feeling restored.

Golden sands

Our Crantock holiday cottages provide the perfect base for family adventures. At low tide, Crantock’s expansive beach reveals a treasure trove of rock pools and shallow streams—perfect for kids to explore, splash, and play safely. With buckets, spades, and a sense of adventure, little ones can enjoy hours of entertainment discovering tiny marine creatures or building sandcastles along the shore.

For those who love traditional beach games, Crantock’s vast sandy expanse is an idyllic setting for rounders, cricket, or kite flying. After a day of seaside fun, head up the beach to the nearby sand dunes for a picnic or barbecue, where you can watch the sun dip into the Atlantic.

Holidaymaker on coast path North Cornwall

Coastal paths and rolling countryside

Crantock is perfectly positioned for walkers and nature lovers. Follow the South West Coast Path westward and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the dramatic coastline, from the cliffs of Pentire Point to the sparkling waters of Holywell Bay. To the east, a leisurely walk along the Gannel Estuary is a tranquil escape, offering the chance to spot wading birds and other wildlife.

For a more challenging hike, head up to the surrounding countryside, where rolling fields and quiet lanes lead to charming villages and hidden coves. Crantock’s landscape is a dream for both adventurous walkers and those looking for a leisurely stroll with their four-legged friends—dogs are welcome on the beach year-round.

Whether you’re chasing surf, sunsets, or peaceful moments in nature, Crantock offers a quintessential Cornish escape.

Beaches

Crantock

Backed by rolling dunes and the meandering Gannel Estuary, Crantock Beach is a haven for those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquillity. Its vast golden sands are perfect for families, with seasonal lifeguards ensuring safe swimming and bodyboarding. When the tide is low, the beach reveals rock pools and streams, creating natural play areas for children. For the more adventurous, the estuary is ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, with hire available nearby. Crantock is also a great spot for beginner surfers, with its gentle waves offering a fun introduction to Cornwall’s surf culture.

The dunes and cliffs surrounding Crantock make it an incredible spot for sunsets. Pack a picnic or head to the cosy village pubs for a relaxing end to your day.

Holywell Bay

Just a short drive from Crantock, Holywell Bay is famed for its dramatic twin-peaked Gull Rocks rising from the sea. Its wide, sandy beach is a favourite for families and dog walkers alike, offering plenty of space to roam. Seasonal lifeguards make it a safe spot for swimming and bodyboarding, and the beach is surrounded by sand dunes perfect for kids to climb and explore. Adventurers can seek out the hidden sea cave and rockpool at low tide, where a natural holy well has been formed over centuries.

Holywell Bay is also a fantastic location for wildlife spotting, with seabirds and marine life often seen along its shores.

Fistral Beach

Just across the headland from Crantock lies Fistral Beach, Newquay’s most iconic surf spot. Renowned for its consistent waves, it’s a playground for surfers of all levels, with board hire and lessons readily available. Beyond surfing, Fistral is a hub for beachgoers, offering vibrant cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the surf roll in.

On calmer days, the beach is perfect for paddleboarding and picnics, with its soft sands inviting families and friends to relax and enjoy the Cornish sun.

Porth Joke (Polly Joke)

For a quieter escape, head to Porth Joke, known locally as Polly Joke. This hidden gem is a secluded cove nestled between Crantock and Holywell Bay. With no car park or facilities, it’s less frequented by crowds, making it a peaceful retreat. Its untouched sands and turquoise waters are perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature, and its surrounding cliffs and wildflower meadows are a dream for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Whether you’re chasing waves, sunsets, or quiet moments in nature, Crantock and its nearby beaches offer something special for everyone.

Food & drink

Cool cafes

Right by the entrance to Crantock Beach, Jam Jar Café is a favourite for beachgoers, serving up artisan coffee, fresh pastries, and hearty breakfasts to fuel your day. Their outdoor seating is perfect for soaking up the morning sun. For coffee aficionados, Cargo Coffee, a quirky spot housed in a converted shipping container, serves exceptional brews alongside locally sourced snacks and sweet treats. With its relaxed vibe and scenic setting, it’s a great spot to take a break.

For a more refined dining experience, the C-Bay Bar & Bistro offers breathtaking views over Crantock Bay. This stylish spot serves a delicious menu throughout the day, from relaxed breakfasts to elegant evening meals, using locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying a Cornish cream tea on the terrace or indulging in a three-course dinner, C-Bay is perfect for a special treat.

Pubs & restaurants

Crantock is home to The Old Albion Inn, a historic pub full of character, offering a menu of hearty pub classics, including locally caught fish and chips and indulgent homemade pies. Just a short stroll away, The Bowgie Inn sits perched on the cliffs, boasting panoramic views over Crantock Bay. Their menu is packed with locally sourced dishes, from fresh seafood platters to vegan delights, and they’re known for their great selection of Cornish ales and craft beers.

For a welcoming village vibe, head to The Cornishman, a family-friendly pub in the heart of Crantock. Known for its warm atmosphere, it offers a varied menu with everything from comforting pub favourites to fresh local specials. With a sunny beer garden and regular live music events, it’s a fantastic spot to unwind after a day at the beach.

Beach near self-catering holiday accommodation in Newquay by Forever Cornwall

Eating local in Crantock

Crantock’s proximity to farms and the coastline means there’s no shortage of fresh, local produce. Pop into the Crantock Village Store for artisan bread, local cheeses, and handmade pasties. Nearby, Trevilley Farm Shop offers a bounty of seasonal fruit and veg, free-range meats, and Cornish preserves, making it easy to stock up for a self-catered stay.

Whether you’re grabbing a coffee to go, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or picking up picnic essentials, Crantock offers an array of culinary delights to complement your seaside escape.

Things to do

Take to the water

Crantock Beach and the nearby Gannel Estuary are a watersports paradise, offering something for all ages and abilities. The estuary’s calm, sheltered waters are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, with local hire available nearby. Glide along the winding waterway at high tide, surrounded by stunning scenery and rich wildlife, including herons, egrets, and even seals.

For those seeking a bit more action, the gentle surf at Crantock Beach is perfect for beginners wanting to try their hand at surfing or bodyboarding. If you’re feeling adventurous, coasteering experiences around Pentire Head provide a thrilling way to explore the dramatic coastline.

Newquay zoo

A short drive from Crantock, Newquay Zoo is a fantastic family day out. Home to over 1,000 animals, including African lions, meerkats, and red pandas, the zoo offers daily talks and feeding sessions for an educational and fun experience. Younger visitors will love the adventure playground, while the lush tropical gardens and picnic spots provide a relaxing break.

Gweek Seal Sanctuary

Seal spotting

Seal spotting is a must when staying near Crantock. Head to the Gannel Estuary or take a short trip to the cliffs around Holywell Bay or Pentire Head, where you might spot seals basking on hidden beaches or bobbing in the waves. For a closer look, boat trips departing from Newquay often include visits to seal colonies along the coast, offering a magical wildlife encounter.

Walking and exploring

Crantock’s location on the South West Coast Path makes it a walker’s dream. To the west, trails lead to the breathtaking sands of Holywell Bay, with its iconic Gull Rocks and sweeping views. To the east, explore Pentire Head and the picturesque Gannel Estuary, where wildflowers and coastal wildlife create a serene backdrop. Crantock’s dunes and cliffs also provide plenty of opportunities for shorter, scenic strolls.

Whether you’re on the water, exploring the coast, or spotting wildlife, Crantock offers unforgettable experiences for everyone.