
Fistral
What better place to get to grips with a surfboard than Fistral? This world class surfing beach often boasts perfect waves and its golden sands are a constant lure for families, plus there are lifeguards from 30th March until 28th October and there are plenty of amenities very close by. Dogs are welcome on this beach all year round.

Towan Beach
Towan Beach is right in the heart of Newquay – mere moments from the town centre. With Newquay harbour to the west of the beach and the impressive ‘Island’ with its suspension bridge linking it to the mainland it’s a pretty amazing setting for a day at the beach! This beach has full lifeguard cover from 5th of May until the 30th of September, and dogs are welcome all year round.

Porth Beach
Head east out of town and find Porth Beach – a sheltered stretch of sand that, when the tide is out, is much bigger than it looks! It is a ‘blue flag’ beach, meaning it has been recognised for its cleanliness and water quality – and with lifeguard cover (from 19th May to 30th September) and a cafe overlooking the beach, Porth is a perfect family friendly beach. Dogs are welcome from 1st of October until 30th of April, from 1st May to 30th September there is a seasonal ban in operation and dog are only able to go on the beach from 7pm – 8am.

Lusty Glaze
Lusty Glaze is a little more hidden than Fistral or Towan but it is utterly beautiful. Sheltered by high cliffs with a fabulous restaurant on the beach and atmospheric, free(!) sundowner live music sessions during the summer, Lusty Glaze is a great place to be. There’s also an activity centre on the beach, so whether you fancy surfing, abseiling or dodgeball, there’s something for everyone at this beach.

Watergate Bay
Watergate Bay is a vast, two-mile stretch of golden sand on the outskirts of Newquay. Popular with surfers, sun seekers and dog walkers, there’s plenty of room on this beach for everyone. A small village with the same name has formed around the beach, with three good restaurants – and plenty of surf schools, of course! There is a car park near the beach, making for easy access, and it’s lifeguarded from the 5th of May until the 30th of September – as well as being dog-friendly all year round.

Crantock
The River Gannel flows from the approach to Newquay right around the outskirts of the town and out into the Gannel Estuary before reaching the sea. Here, there is an idyllic beach that sits either side of the river as it makes its way down the sand to meet the sea. Crantock is a great place for kids, who can play under the watchful eye of the lifeguards (present from the 19th of May until the 30th of September). Dogs are welcome all year round.