
Mawgan Porth
You could spend the entire week at this brilliant lifeguarded beach and still crave more. As a family friendly option, you can’t beat it: dunes, rock pools, caves, and two surf schools minutes away — Waves Surf School and The Surf Club Cornwall both run beginner, group and private lessons throughout the year. It’s perfect for tiring dogs out in the winter months (there are no dog restrictions), and ideal for sandcastle building come summer. There’s even a stream that runs down the beach to the sea, perfect for little ones when the sea’s on the rough side.
Lifeguarded? Early May-end of Sept
Dog-friendly? Yes, all year round

Lusty Glaze
Lusty Glaze in Newquay is a little more secluded than its more famous neighbours, notably Fistral or Towan, but it is utterly beautiful. Sheltered by high cliffs, with a fabulous beach restaurant and atmospheric live music sundowner sessions during the summer, Lusty Glaze is a great choice. There’s also a brilliant activity centre on the beach, so whether you fancy surfing, abseiling or dodgeball, there’s something for everyone at this beach.
Lifeguarded? Early May-end of Sept
Dog-friendly? Yes, all year round

Watergate Bay
Watergate Bay is a vast, two-mile stretch of 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, including Emily Scott Food – and plenty of surf schools, such as Blue Surf school. There is a car park near the beach, making for easy access.
Lifeguarded? Early May-end of Sep
Dog-friendly? Yes, all year round

Porth Beach
This sheltered stretch of sand is a ‘Seaside Award’ beach, a scheme which recognises beaches throughout the country that celebrate the quality and diversity of the coastline. There is lifeguard cover from mid-May to the end of September, and the wonderful Gwenna Teahouse cafe at one end of the beach, Porth is a perfect family friendly beach.
Lifeguarded? Mid May-end of Sep
Dog-friendly? Seasonal dog ban May-September