Newquay's reputation as a stag-party destination obscures what is one of the most spectacular coastal settings in England. The town sits on a headland with beaches on three sides: Towan, Great Western, Tolcarne, Lusty Glaze, Porth, and the big one — Fistral, which faces due west into the full Atlantic and produces the best surf in Britain.
The surf culture here is genuine and deep-rooted. Surfing was introduced to Britain at Fistral in 1962 by Australian lifeguard Bob Head, and the local surf clubs, shapers, and board-makers trace their history directly to that moment. The Boardmasters festival in August is the UK's largest surf and music event — 55,000 people — but outside that week, the surf community at Fistral is welcoming, competitive, and utterly committed.
Away from the beaches, Newquay has some genuinely good restaurants that took years to arrive. The Fish House on Fistral Beach does exceptional modern seafood. And the Huer's Hut on the headland — a medieval lookout from which shoals of pilchard were signalled — is a reminder that this coastline has been feeding people for a very long time.
The locals say
“Everyone goes to Fistral. The locals surf at Tolcarne and Porth at quieter times. If you want to learn and get waves, book a lesson first thing in the morning before the crowds paddle out.”
Getting there
Newquay has a branch line train station with Par station taking passengers from the London-Penzance line. Drive the A30 and A392. The car parks are well-signed but expensive in July and August.
Best time to visit
September and October for the best surf (swell season starts), warm enough water (wetsuit weather), and half the summer crowd. Boardmasters in August if you want the festival atmosphere.
