Things to do in Newquay

Coastal, Days out, Destinations

Posted by Laurie Baker on 23rd January 2025

An aerial image of Newquay with the bay in the foreground and far-reaching countryside beyond the town.

Bask in the warm, soft sands underfoot as you admire some of the most sought-after surfing spots in the UK. And it’s not just the beaches that attract visitors to the coastal town of Newquay.

The captivating Cornwall destination boasts a blend of natural beauty, rich history and inviting attractions. Nestled along the rugged cliffs of the Atlantic coast, it’s a paradise for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those after a more peaceful retreat. Roam the far-reaching coastal path and dive into a whole host of family-friendly attractions inland; you’ll uncover an abundance of things to do in Newquay. So, pack your bags, grab Fido’s lead and load everyone into the car for a trip to remember in charming Newquay.

Why not take a look at our collection of self-catering cottages by clicking the link below and search for romantic escapes by the sea, doggy-friendly abodes with gardens or large properties with space for everyone’s surf gear, and more?

Cottages in Newquay


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A bustling Fistral Beach in Newquay and a surfer riding a wave.

Savour the day on a Newquay beach

If it’s long stretches of golden sands you're after, Newquay has it by the bucketful (quite literally). Grab your beach towels and embrace the sand between your toes with a day on Towan Beach; we think it’s best for families thanks to its central location and sheltered position amongst the craggy cliffs. At low tide, like many of the small beaches along Newquay Bay, it connects with Great Western Beach, creating a longer stretch of sand for visitors to roam.

Keen surfers will want to head to vibrant Fistral Beach (host to Boardmasters since 1981) to the west of Newquay, world-renowned for its bodacious waves. Backed by rugged cliffs, the beach is a thriving hub of activity with water sports hire, surf schools (for those wanting to learn the surfing ropes) and beach bars. It's pooch-friendly too so you can bring Fido along for a doggy paddle.

Worth the steep steps to get access, Lusty Gaze is a privately owned secluded cove nestled amongst the cliffs at the northern end of Newquay Bay. Roll out your towel and bask in the warm sun with your latest read; we encourage you to stay for the most wonderful sunsets too.

Our favourite beaches:

  • Towan Beach: Newquay TR7 1DU
  • Fistral Beach: Newquay TR7 1HY
  • Lusty Glaze Beach: Newquay TR7 3AE

Boats docked in Newquay Harbour with the beach in the background.

Wander Newquay Harbour

Surrounded by the town’s sloping streets, with bobbing fishing boats in the tranquil blue waters, the harbour is a dreamy spot for an afternoon stroll. Spot the playful local seals chasing behind the returning fishing boats. The dog-friendly harbour has a small beach and hosts some truly memorable events throughout the year.

Time it right, and enjoy a day spent spectating real training exercises including a helicopter sea rescue at the annual Lifeboat Day. And admire the joys of water sports at the summertime Harbour Sports Day, with jet ski and speedboat demonstrations.

Good to know:

  • Location: South Quay Hill, Newquay TR7 1HR
  • Lifeguards: No
  • Dog friendly? Yes
  • Stay nearby: Wave Watch | sleeps 8 + 3 dogs

A little boy pointing at animals in the zoo and a red panda.

Monkey around at Newquay Zoo

As you stroll the long pathways of Newquay Zoo, you’ll undoubtedly be engrossed with the diverse display of animals and lush green gardens. Based in Trenance Gardens, the 13 acres are home to a collection of over 800 animals, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, in nature-themed exhibits.

Follow the map or go off-piste as you take in the zoo's sights, sounds (and smells). Wave to the chattering marmoset monkeys, make friends with the meerkats, admire the unhurried pace of the resident sloths, and so many more. Then pause the roaming; settle on a bench in the outdoor play area while the little nippers descend on the climbing frames and you take a moment to rest.

Good to know:

  • Location: Trenance Gardens, Newquay TR7 2LZ
  • Opening times: Daily from 10am
  • Entry fee: Adult from £17 | child from £12.50 | under 3s free
  • Dog friendly? No
  • Stay nearby: Rising Tide | sleeps 8 + 3 dogs

Two people reaching for popcorn at a cinema screening.

Catch a movie at Newquay Cinema

We can’t guarantee the weather on your holiday, but we can suggest plenty of things to do in Newquay for when it’s wet out. And top of our list is a trip to the flicks to catch the latest blockbuster or National Theatre Live event at the Lighthouse Cinema.

With four screens across two floors, the cinema offers a variety of films; check out their website for current listings. Then you’re just left with one tough decision – whether to go sweet or salty at the confectionary kiosk.

Good to know:

  • Location: King Street, Newquay TR7 1AA
  • Entry fee: Adult £8.90 | child £6.80 | senior £7.30
  • Opening times: Check the website for show times
  • Stay nearby: Beach House | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

A young boy watching the fishes overhead in the aquarium and two clownfish in the coral.

Blue Reef Aquarium

Lose yourself in the sights and sounds of one of Newquay’s top attractions. Teeming with ocean life, the Blue Reef Aquarium hosts species from near and far across its exhibits. The aquarium also works tirelessly, raising awareness of the key conservation issues facing our oceans.

Included in your ticket price are daily talks and feeds; catch lunchtime for the Blacktip Reef Sharks in the ocean tunnel and hear about the resident octopus lurking in her shipwreck lair in the Colder Waters exhibit.

Good to know:

  • Location: Towan Promenade, Newquay TR7 1DU
  • Entry fee: Adult £15.15 | child £11.65 | senior £14.15
  • Opening times: Daily from 10am
  • Stay nearby: Lobster House | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

A group of children enjoying playing under the water at a swimming pool.

Splash around at Oasis Fun Pool

It doesn’t matter what the weather is doing on a visit to Oasis Fun Pool, because you can splash, spray and dive the day away. There’s a choice of two pools, three water flumes, Jacuzzi-style jets, river rapids and more!

For younger visitors, there’s a purpose-built toddler pool complete with a squirty slide and warmer water to frolic in. On warm days, the outdoor pool presents the perfect place to plop down and dangle your toes while the kids let loose. The pool is open to non-residents, but slots are subject to availability and booking ahead is a must.

Good to know:

  • Location: Hendra Holiday Park, Newquay TR8 4NY
  • Entry fee: Check the website for up-to-date prices and to book your slot
  • Opening times: Open seasonally from late March
  • Stay nearby: Sea Pink Cottage | sleeps 5

A cold beer in a pub beer garden and cocktails being mixed at a bar.

Pubs in Newquay

Take a pew at the bar, lift your tired legs and settle down with your favourite ice-cold tipple. After a day exploring the sites, you're bound to need to take the load off, so here are some of our favourite pubs in Newquay for you to sample.

The dog-friendly Red Lion benefits from harbour views and a beer garden. Its beachside location along the edge of town lends itself to a mid-day stop-off, or post-surf refuel, with a dish from its hearty menu. *Locals tip* order a Sunday roast and benefit from free top-ups of roasties, yorkies and gravy.

If it’s an easy-going vibe you're after, wander down to The Boathouse, a beachside pub serving a seafood-heavy street food menu. The venue hosts a bunch of live music as well as regular well-being events. Stroll into the hip Tom Thumb, and settle yourselves into a cosy corner amongst the wafts of mingling citrus and floral notes. Leaf through the impressive cocktail menu and place your order before chit-chatting long into the evening about tomorrow’s plans.

Our top pubs in Newquay:

  • The Red Lion: North Quay Hill, Newquay TR7 1HE
  • The Boathouse: South Quay Hill, Newquay TR7 1HT
  • Tom Thumb: 27a East Street, Newquay TR7 1DN

A pizza being carried out by a waiter and a plate of seafood pasta.

Restaurants in Newquay

If all that fresh sea air has set tummies growling, you’re in luck, as we’ve collated our top restaurants in Newquay for you to peruse. Boasting a friendly atmosphere and salty sea views, Secret Garden serves up a platter of artisan pizzas with freshly sourced ingredients alongside organic wines and local Cornish beers.

Continuing the roster of the many fine eateries on offer in Newquay, how about dining amongst the inviting ambience of Michelin Plate bistro The Fish House Fistral? With the scent of freshly caught seafood lovingly prepared/seasoned in aromatic herbs, you can expect refined, colourful and mouthwatering dishes at this coastal diner.

It doesn’t get much dog-friendlier than WAX Beach Bar and Restaurant in Watergate Bay; these guys really do deliver the full pup experience with a doggy menu fit for all top dogs. Humans can enjoy sea views and a full menu, with a takeaway option if you’ve got a cosy evening back at the cottage planned.

Our top restaurants in Newquay:

  • Secret Garden: 21 Cliff Rd, Newquay TR7 2NE
  • The Fish House Fistral: Unit 5, International Surf Centre, Fistral Beach, Newquay TR7 1HY
  • WAX Beach Bar and Restaurant: Watergate Bay, Newquay TR8 4AB

Map of things to do in Newquay

Discover all our top things to do in Newquay featured in this blog using our handy interactive map below. Check out our favourite places to eat and the best local attractions.

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Book your coastal cottage in Newquay

You’ve found yourself at the end of our helpful blog of things to do in Newquay and we hope by now that we’ve tickled your inner travelling bug. So, settle down and start scrolling through our collection of holiday cottages in Newquay. View dog-friendly coastal homes, romantic boltholes for two and larger properties for spending time with loved ones.

Cottages in Newquay

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.