Beaches in Cornwall
Fistral Beach- Best for Surfing and Family Facilities
Why Visit Fistral Beach?
Fistral Beach is Newquay’s most famous beach and one of Cornwall’s premier surfing destinations. Its wide expanse of golden sand offers plenty of room for all abilities, from beginners and bodyboarders to families looking to relax.
- Surf schools, cafés, restaurants, toilets, and seasonal lifeguards are all available on site
- Large pay-and-display car parks are located right beside the beach – arrive before 10am on sunny days for the best spaces
- Drive time from Atlantic Reach: Approximately 20 minutes
Crantock Beach – Best for Scenic Walks and Relaxed Beach Days
Crantock offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere than the central Newquay beaches. Backed by sand dunes and bordering the beautiful Gannel Estuary, it is ideal for scenic walks and peaceful family days. At low tide, the excellent rock pools provide hours of entertainment for younger children.
- Parking: National Trust car park with a short walk through the dunes to the beach
- Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: Approximately 25 minutes
Porth Beach – Best for Young Children
Porth Beach – Best for Family-Friendly Fun
Porth Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches near Newquay. It features soft, flat sand, a gentle stream that children love to play in, and usually calm waters suitable for safe paddling.
- Parking: Direct beach parking available, with additional spaces nearby during busy periods
- Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: Approximately 15 minutes
Mawgan Porth – Best for Rock Pools and Coastal Scenery
Mawgan Porth – Best for Rock Pools and Coastal Scenery
Mawgan Porth boasts dramatic cliffs, caves, and excellent rock pools at low tide. The beach is popular with surfers, while the coastal path above offers stunning views.
- Parking: Large pay-and-display car park close to the beach, with cafés and shops nearby
- Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: Approximately 20 minutes
Holywell Bay – Best for Sand Dunes and Coastal Views
Holywell Bay – Best for Sand Dunes and Dramatic Scenery
Holywell Bay is renowned for its vast sand dunes and dramatic scenery. Children enjoy running across 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: Approximately 25 minutes
Towan Beach – Best for Convenience and Easy Access
Towan Beach – Best for Convenience and Central Location
Located in the heart of Newquay, Towan Beach is extremely convenient. Shops, cafés, restaurants, and ice cream parlours are all within easy reach. The iconic suspension bridge to Towan Island also makes a great photo opportunity.
- Parking: Several town centre car parks within easy walking distance
- Drive Time from Atlantic Reach: Approximately 20 minutes
Tips for Visiting Cornwall Beaches During May Half Term
- Arrive early to secure the best parking spots
- Check tide times before exploring caves and rock pools
- Bring layers — Cornwall weather can change quickly
- Many beaches have RNLI lifeguards on duty during May half term
- Beaches can be busy on sunny days but are far quieter than during the main summer holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Which beach near Newquay is best for families?
Porth Beach is a firm 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 become busy on warm, sunny days, particularly around Newquay, but are nowhere near as crowded as during the summer holidays.
Which beach near Atlantic Reach is best for rock pooling?
Mawgan Porth and Crantock Beach are both excellent when the tide is out.
Looking for Somewhere to Stay Near Newquay?
If you are looking for an excellent base for your Cornwall holiday this May half term, Atlantic Reach offers the perfect location for beach days and coastal exploration.
Stay your way:
- Camping, touring caravan, or motorhome pitches on our spacious site
- Comfortable self-catering cottages
Return after a day at the beach and unwind — that is what holidays are all about.
