13 May Best Beaches Near Newquay to Visit This May Half Term (Within 30 Minutes of Atlantic Reach)
Best Beaches Near Newquay to Visit This May Half Term
(All Within 30 Minutes of Atlantic Reach)
Planning a family getaway to Cornwall this May half term? If you’re staying at Atlantic Reach near Newquay, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy some of the area’s best beaches. All of them are within a relaxed 30-minute drive.
Whether you fancy surfing, exploring rock pools, going for coastal walks, or just relaxing on the sand with the kids, here’s our pick of the best beaches to visit.
Fistral Beach – Best for Surfing & Family Facilities
Fistral Beach is Newquay’s most famous beach and a top surfing spot in Cornwall. With its wide golden sand, it’s great for beginners, bodyboarders, and families who want plenty of room to spread out.You’ll find surf schools, cafes, restaurants, toilets, and lifeguards here during the season, so it’s really convenient for a family day out.
Parking: Large pay and display car parks right beside the beach. Try to arrive before 10am if it’s sunny.
Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: About 20 minutes
Crantock Beach – Best for Scenic Walks & Relaxed Beach Days
Crantock offers a much quieter, more relaxed vibe than the central Newquay beaches. Backed by sand dunes and the pretty Gannel Estuary, it’s lovely for scenic walks and peaceful family days.At low tide the rock pools are excellent, which keeps younger children happily occupied for hours.
Parking: National Trust car park with a short walk through the dunes to the beach.
Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: About 25 minutes
Porth Beach – Best for Young Children
Porth Beach is one of the most family-friendly options near Newquay. The sand is soft and flat, there’s a little stream running across the beach that kids love, and the water is usually quite calm for paddling.Parking: You can park right on the beach, with extra spaces nearby when it’s busy.
Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: About 15 minutes
Mawgan Porth – Best for Rock Pools & Coastal Scenery
Mawgan Porth has beautiful cliffs and plenty to explore. At low tide you can find caves and rock pools, while the waves are popular with surfers.The coastal path along the top offers some really lovely views too.
Parking: Big pay and display car park close to the beach, with cafes and shops nearby.
Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: About 20 minutes
Holywell Bay – Best for Sand Dunes & Coastal Views
Holywell Bay is known for its huge sand dunes and dramatic scenery. Kids love running around the dunes, exploring caves, and playing on the wide beach.Parking: National Trust car park with a short walk through the dunes.
Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: About 25 minutes
Towan Beach – Best for Convenience & Easy Access
Right in the heart of Newquay, Towan Beach is super convenient. Shops, cafes, restaurants and ice cream are all close by. The suspension bridge over to Towan Island is a fun photo spot too.Parking: Several town centre car parks within easy walking distance.
Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: About 20 minutes
Tips for Visiting Cornwall Beaches During May Half Term
- Arrive early to get the best parking spots
- Check the tide times before you go exploring caves and rock pools
- Bring layers – the weather here can change in no time
- Many beaches have RNLI lifeguards on duty during May half term
- It can be busy on sunny days, but still much quieter than the main summer holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Which beach near Newquay is best for families?
Porth Beach is a real favourite thanks to its calm water, soft sand and easy access.
Which Cornwall beach is best for surfing?
Fistral Beach is one of the best-known surfing beaches in Cornwall, with waves suitable for all abilities.
Are Cornwall beaches busy during May Half Term?
They can get busy on warm sunny days, especially around Newquay, but nowhere near as crowded as the summer holidays.
Which beach near Atlantic Reach is best for rock pooling?
Mawgan Porth and Crantock Beach are both brilliant when the tide is out.
Looking for Somewhere to Stay Near Newquay?
If you’re looking for a great base for your Cornwall holiday this May half term, Atlantic Reach is in a perfect spot for beach days and exploring the coast.
Stay your way:
- Camping, touring caravan or motorhome pitches on our spacious site
- Comfortable self-catering cottages
Come back after a day on the beach and relax — that’s what holidays are all about.
