This is the section that we all hope will be used the most. It means the sun is shining and all is well. We honestly believe that with a bit of sun Cornwall is the best place on earth to spend your hard earned holiday and that Newquay offers the best of the best in entertainment for the out door enthusiast.We have dozens of great outdoor activities within walking distance of our front door.
The Sea
You came on holiday to the seaside so the sea is going to keep on cropping up. There are lots of sports in the surf and they are all within walking distance:
- Bodyboarding (catching waves whilst lying on a board)
- Surfing (catching waves whilst standing on a board)
- Stand Up Paddleboarding or SUP (like surfing but with a paddle)
- Monster SUP (as above but bigger and with more people)
- Coasteering (climbing, swimming and jumping your way around the coast)
- Kitesurfing (standing on a board whilst getting dragged around by a powerful kite)
If your new to surf sports start by trying out our Dick Pearce belly boards. A great Eco. friendly alternative to the plastic and foam variety. We bought ours from Karma just by the back gate.
To plan your stay you’re going to want to know what the sea is doing, and when. Our favourite option is surf-reports.com
Towan Beach
Towan is our “Home Beach”. Just outside Crest Court`s front door. This is the best beach in Newquay , OK; we know we are biased but bear with us whilst we justify that belief.
It’s very close to shops, pubs,restaurants ,cafes ,takeaways and our apartment. That cuts travel time to a minimum leaving more time and energy for fun. It is one of the safest beaches in Newquay . If you don’t want to leave the beach you don’t have to (except for the tide). Everything you need is here, from coffee and cakes, to Cornish pasties and fish and chips. You can hire or buy most beach related goods here, from buckets and spades, to deck chairs, even beach wheelchairs. There is a great surf school just on the promenade. Lockers for hire and a shower for when you come out of the sea
Safe But Still Exciting
Rock pools, caves, a tunnel and even the suspension bridge across to the famous island, provide priceless free fun. The golden sand is firm and easy to walk on and in the season RNLI Lifeguards are on patrol.
This beach is sheltered from the worst of the Atlantic swells by Towan headland but don’t think that makes it tame. The “kiddie’s corner” wave is definitely for the experienced surfer. Watch out for the “harbour left” and “Bothwicks” all favourites of the locals. Its dog friendly, you can watch the boats going in and out of the harbour and when the tide is out you can walk to Porth.
Some people leave a beach if it rains apparently, here it really doesn’t matter because you can always visit the Blue Reef Aquarium, this is where the public toilets are and yet another cafe. You may think you know a better beach but I’m afraid you aren’t going to convince us.
Walking Distance 2 Mins.
Newquay Activity Center
The Newquay Activity Centre is probably the best place in Cornwall to get your fix of adrenaline. It is a Trip Adviser No 1, Gold award winning operation, so they must be doing something right.
They offer instruction in Surfing, Body Boarding, Stand up Paddle-Boarding, Monster SUP, Coasteering, Survival training, Kayaking and Lifeguard training- they even train the military. All the kit you could need is available here, to hire right on your door step. Don’t worry if you’re not a surf master, they cater for complete beginners as well.
All the activities that they provide are available in a form that is suitable for families, complete beginners, improvers or experts. Talk to a member of the team if you need help deciding what is best for you.
You can visit their website from the link below or go up into the town and have a chat with them.
Tel. 01637 877722
60 Fore St, Newquay TR7 1LW
Walking Distance 5 Mins.
Thanks to Newquay Activity Center for the Images.
Great Western Beach To Watergate Beach
Step out of Crest Court, onto Towan Beach and turn right. If you time it well with the tide you can walk across Towan, Great Western, Tolcarne, Lusty Glaze, Porth, Whipsiderry and onto Watergate. Then make your way back along the coast path.
Great Western Beach. Dog Friendly ,Surf cafe,beach bar, surf hire and surf lessons. R.N.L.I Life Guards on duty in the season
Tolcarne Beach No Dogs between April and October(above high water line), Food outlets, Bar, Surf Hire and Surf Lessons .R.N.L.I Life Guards on duty in the season
Lusty Glaze Beach , Dog Friendly, Privately owned beach, specialising in weddings and corporate events. Home of Waverunner Safari.R.N.L.I Life Guards on duty in the season
Porth Beach ,No Dogs from 15th May to 30th September between 10 AM and 6 PM, Mermaid Pub on the beach, cafes, surf hire nearby .R.N.L.I Life Guards on duty in the season
Whipsiderry Beach, Dog friendly, steep steps to access, no facilities. That makes it very quite and we love it for that. At low tide you can walk on to Watergate beach.
Watergate Beach ,Dog Friendly , Food outlets, surf hire ,surf lessons and beach shops. Watergate specialises in Kite Surfing.
Walking Distance : 5 km Post Code TR8 4AB
Crantock
There are many ways to get to Crantock Beach. Our favourite would be taking the footpath across the road from Walkabout that comes out at Belushi’s, turn right and walk down the road until you get to the roundabout, then follow the path between the Red Lion and the Harbour. This will take you past the Huer’s Hut, which was used to look out for shoals of fish coming into the bay, onto Towan Head, past Little Fistral and on to Fistral Beach. Keep going across Fistral, onto Pentire Headland. You can You can take the ferry service across onto Crantock Beach from here in the summer- be careful on Crantock as there tends to be a very strong current and it does have a reputation for rip currents, but as long as you are between the lifeguards’ flags everything should be fine.
Walking Distance : 3 km (via ferry at high tide) Post Code TR8 5RN
Newquay Zoo, Wild Planet Trust
From Lions,lemurs and lynx to meerkats ,marmosets and monkeys , you are never too far away from a little animal magic at Newquay Zoo.
For those of you of a certain age i am sure you can understand why those are the Zoo`s words not mine John Morris
Apart from the animals there are plenty of other things to see and do including The Tropical House, The Oriental Garden, Gems Of The Jungle, The Secret Garden and Outdoor Play Areas.
If all that has left you feeling hungry head to Cafe Lemur or if you fancy a take away The Lazy Lion Grill could be for you. Ice Cream? Meerkat Munchies is where you need to be.
Newquay Zoo is fun but it has a serious side. The wild planet trust is involved in many different aspects of conservation from marine plastics to sustainable palm oil via carbon footprint reduction and many other vitally important ecological issues .
Support the Zoo and you re helping support the planet.
Walking distance 1.6 Km. TR7 2LZ
Tel. 01637 873342
Open 10am to 5pm
Thanks to Newquay Zoo for the images
Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park
You probably came past Trenance Gardens when you first arrived. If you walk down as far as Great Western Beach, then turn inland, you will arrive at Trenance Gardens.
It’s very close to the Leisure Centre and Zoo. Here you will find the Riding Stables which offers rides down the Gannel, the boating lake from which canoes and rowing boats can be hired, Crazy Golf, Miniature Railway, a couple of free play parks with slides and swings, the lovely Lakeside Café , tennis ,bowls, skate board park, trampoline and play park oh and the gardens.
If you don’t fancy the walk then catch the famous Newquay Land Train.
Walking distance : 1.1 km Post Code TR7 2NW
Newquay Harbour
The Harbour (or Quay) was originally built in 1439 and has been upgraded and rebuilt many times since then. When it was first built however it was new, making it “the new quay”. Over the past few hundred years the name Newquay has evolved.
Many fishing trips operate out of the harbour: you do get to keep your catch but bear in mind someone is going to need to gut your catch and the freezer in the apartment is only small.
There are Six seals that frequently visit the harbour that would be more than happy to take care of any over-catch. They may look like big wet dogs but remember these are wild animals that might decide your hand looks tasty too.
Sea safaris and boat tours also launching from the harbour. Book one of these to see more of the wildlife in the area and look around some of the more isolated coves.
The RNLI are also based in the harbour. The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. It’s a voluntary organisation whose members risk their lives in all weathers to help others, and they even let you into the lifeboat house to have a look at their boats and tractors.
Please make a donation – you never know when you might need them yourself.
At low tide you can walk straight across Towan Beach and through the harbour entrance; at mid tide you will find steps up over the harbour wall from Towan and at high tide you can approach the harbour from Fore Street.
Walking distance 0.5 km Post Code TR7 1HR
Waverunner Safari
Waverunner Safari operates out of Lusty Glaze Beach, offering some slightly higher octane activities, including Jet Ski Safaris, banana boating,high speed Rib and powerboat tours. Private boat charter is also available.
If that`s not enough for the thrill seekers then talk to them about tight rope walking or abseiling.
Tel. 01637 806106
Thanks to Waverunner Safari for the Images.
Walking distance 1.9 km Post Code TR7 3AE
Newquay sea safaris
Based at the harbour this is the place to go for your boat based fun. Take a Wildlife Safari spotting shark, dolphin, seal and much more. Too boring? Not a problem they can crank it up from fishing trips through snorkelling up to shark cage diving. Chris also tells us that they welcome “salty sea dogs” but I think that’s just as spectators.
Tel. 01637 877613
Thanks to Newquay sea safaris for the images
Walking distance 0.5 km Post Code TR7 1HR
Body Bounce
Sometimes the kids get too excited and you just know there will be tears. This i a great solution to that problem. Get them down here and you will soon burn off their excess energy and be the best parent ever.
Once the kids are bouncing away you can grab a drink and a snack at the kiosk and have a well earned break.
Tel. 07730485067
Thanks to Body Bounce for the images
Walking distance 1.2 km Post Code TR7 2QF
Newquay Land Train
Operating a circular route taking in Trenance Gardens, the Zoo, Narrowcliff, Town Centre, and Mount Wise this is a great way to see the town and get your bearings. Tickets are bought on the train and are all day or part journey. The train operates during the season and at Christmas.
Tel. 07855 677077
Thanks to Newquay Land Train for the images
The Kraken
This is a great walk from the apartment across Fistral to Pentire headland grab a cake coffee and pastie then a game of pitch and put this place may have a scary name but its very friendly (for a sea monster)
Award Winning Cornish Pasties, Cornish Ice Cream, Pastries and Barista Coffee to Takeaway with a 10 acre 9 Hole Pitch and Putt Golf course.
The only spot in Newquay for stunning views across both Fistral and Crantock Beaches. Plenty of parking in Pentire car park and great walks on Pentire Headland. Dog and Sea Monster Friendly.
Shortest walking distance 2.4 Km TR7 1PF
Thanks to The Kraken for the images
Newquay Water sports Centre
Based at the harbour Newquay Water Sports Centre is in the old railway tunnel .
If its water based then they have got it covered.Whether its paddle powered, jet powered, wind powered or water powered they have the kit and the knowledge to give you a great experience . From white water rafting to jet wing, from SUPs to coasteering and from kayak fishing trips to wave ski surfing with just about everything in between.
Don`t fancy the water ? OK how about archery, axe throwing, power kiting, kite buggy or kite land boarding?
Walking distance .5 Km. TR7 1HT
Tel. 07535 103119
Thanks to Newquay Water Sports Centre for the images
SSS Surf School
All surf schools are not the same it is important that you get the right tuition based on your abilities and experience. SSS instructors are ISA qualified and the owner,Stewart, is an offshore survival trainer,North Sea rescue swimmer, PADI dive master and Rescue diver. Your in good hands.
The boards are tailored to your individual needs, they are designed by local pro surfer Ben Skinner. All students are given professional surf kit, including high-tech O’Neill wet-suits, boots, hoods and gloves – keeping you warm and comfortable in the water all year round.
Regardless of if you are in a group lesson, couples or a one to one you can be sure you will be well looked after.
Towan beach TR7 1DU
Tel. 07792 018787
Thanks to SSS Surf School for the images
Silent Disco Yoga
Silent Disco Yoga involves practising yoga whilst immersing yourself in music played through wireless headphones. The class is led by a yoga teacher who is talking into a wireless microphone and whose voice can be heard over the music in your headphones.
Great music in great locations and your keeping your mind and body fit and healthy . Various sites around Newquay these photographs are from Fistral and Lusty Glaze.
Tel. 07740 649779
Thanks to Silent Disco Yoga for the images.
Oceanflow Yoga.
Located just above the southern end of Fistral beach Oceanflow offer a full range of options for the yoga practitioner. Outdoor sesions above the beach or studio based options all with a great view of the Atlantic. It doesn’t matter what level of experience you have Oceanflow can meet your needs from classes , one to one tuition or even hot yoga. Don`t want to spend all your holiday practising yoga ? No problem you can also book an on line course for streaming at home .
4 Gwelva Lowenek TR7 1GX
Tel. 07740 649779
Thanks to Oceanflow Yoga for the images
Little Western Railway
Little Western Railway
This is the oldest miniature railway in Cornwall and is an incredibly friendly attraction.The Kids will love this and, if they are honest, so will the adults.
Near the tennis courts and next to a children’s adventure play ground. Prices are very reasonable so multiple rides are an affordable option .
Thanks to Little Western Railway for the images
Newquay Crazy Golf
18 hole miniature golf course set in beautifully landscaped gardens . Some say golf is a good walk spoilt but this is lots of fun give it a try i think you will have a laugh.
Trenance Gardens TR7 2LZ
Tel. 07973 931086
Thanks to Newquay Crazy Golf for the images
Concrete Waves
Widely considered to be the best skate park in the country Concrete Waves caters for all abilities from beginner to professional . It has four separate areas, a retro-style pool, expansive street run, stair set and an internationally significant bowl.
Any skateboard or BMX enthusiast will be well aware of this park.
Its free and after 4 pm the car park is free as well
Trenance park TR7 2LZ
Tel. 01202 113811
Thanks to Concrete Waves for the images
Trenance Cottages
Serving up a slice of Old Newquay is Trenance Cottages, a trio of beautifully renovated, Grade II listed, Cornish cottages that are open to the public – containing a tearoom, a heritage museum, and a function room for hire, they also cater for dog friendly weddings.
Rose, Middle and Vine cottage have been restored in the biggest ever Newquay community led renovation project.
An ideal setting for a traditional Cornish cream tea or just a Cornish ice cream.
Free to enter. This is a registered charity.
TR7 2HW
Tel. 01637 859496
Thanks to Trenance Cottages for the images
Trenance Boat Hire
Bare Feet Coasteer
This isn’t for the fainthearted but for those with a bit of courage the rewards are staggering. It sounds simple just get round a section of coast on rocks and in the sea but this is an adrenaline fuelled epic adventure. Usually 3 hours long with all your safety equipment included and photographs and videos at the end to prove to yourself you really did it. As with most new skills its easy if you have the right teacher. The instructors always asses the group and tailor the individual tour to the groups abilities you wont be asked to do anything outside your abilities or which is dangerous even if it feels scary at the time.
This is fantastic value £45 for 3 hours and links to photographs and videos included
All guides are qualified RLSS or NARS lifeguards ,trained in water rescue and first aid ,so you are in safe hands.
Fistral beach Surf School TR7 1HY
Tel. 07990513694
Thanks to Bare Feet Coasteer for the images
Geocaching
Geocaching is a sort of treasure hunt/orienteering/puzzle adventure, following clues, codes and GPS co-ordinates to find the geocache, which is often a small hidden container. Sometimes this is as obvious as a lunchbox in a field; sometimes it’s a fake log in a pile of logs that has a hidden compartment. If you find the cache you can exchange the treasure with something of your own for the next person to find, or sign the logbook and return the cache knowing you found it. There are caches all over the world – there are about 50 within walking distance of Crest Court. Your dog will love helping you search.
As with everything there’s an app for that: www.geocaching.com
Ordnance Survey
Ordnance Survey Maps were originally created by the army to help them transport (and drop) ordinance around the country. They are the best walking maps available by a long way showing incredible detail. If you’re exploring on foot a 1:25000 is going to give you the best detail – there’s lots of outdoors shops which will sell them.
Just to get you started we have our own 1 in 25,000 customised map centred on the apartment in the side board draw.
Alternatively the maps are available online to view from your phone – there is a monthly subscription charge for this but they do offer a 1 week free trial, www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk