By the Down The Cove editorial team in Cornwall
is the undisputed surfing capital of the UK, a lively North Cornwall resort wrapped around a string of golden, Atlantic-facing beaches. From the powerful waves of Fistral to the sheltered town beaches by the harbour, it pairs world-class surf with a buzzing seaside atmosphere.
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Harbour guide
A simple guide to the feel of the place, how to arrive, and what to keep in mind before you go.
Newquay has the kind of harbour character we love: practical, weathered, and full of small details that reward a slower look.
Harbour strolls, seafood, families, boat watching and coastal photos.
Arrive early in peak season where possible, and leave time for parking, slopes and narrow streets.
A good family read before a visit: talk about boats, tides, old buildings and how harbour life works.
Check tides, parking and opening times if you are visiting for food, boat trips or a family wander.
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Read straight through, or use the planning notes above to shape an easier coastal day.
Newquay Harbour
Newquay Harbour is a working fishing harbour protected by two walls. Towan beach is situated on the east of the harbour. The harbour dries out at low tide.
The working fishing boats mainly catch lobster and crab although up until the late 19th Century Newquay was known for its pilchard fishing.
Porth
Porth beach faces northwest and is an easily accessible family beach.
Tolcarne
Tolcarne is a large sandy beach which is surrounded by high cliffs. Tolcarne is a popular family beach.
Fistral Beach
Fistral Beach is best known as a surfing beach. Many surfing championships are held at Fistral Beach.
When there is a lot of swell, the waves break on a reef at the north end of the beach causing 'big waves' ideal for surfing.
Towan
Towan beach is a large sandy beach backed by a sea wall.
Towan Island is situated at the east end of the beach and is joined to the mainland by a small suspension bridge.
Newquay Sealife Centre is located to the rear of Towan beach.
Sea Fishing in Newquay area
The beaches at Newquay are good for bass fishing. You can also catch some decent sized turbot and plaice. We recommend fishing on the incoming tide as you are more likely to catch.
Newquay RNLI
The Lifeboats
The Gladys Mildred – B Class Lifeboat
Valerie Wilson - D Class Lifeboat
En Id Mary - D Class Lifeboat
The Lifeboat Station
Newquay Lifeboat Station operated an all-weather lifeboat for nearly 80 years until it closed in 1945. The station re-opened again in 1965. The crews have received several awards for gallantry and now operate two inshore lifeboats.
Support Newquay Lifeboat...
With thanks to the RNLI for allowing us to use their images and information
Newquay RNLI
The Lifeboats
The Gladys Mildred – B Class Lifeboat
Valerie Wilson - D Class Lifeboat
En Id Mary - D Class Lifeboat
The Lifeboat Station
Newquay Lifeboat Station operated an all-weather lifeboat for nearly 80 years until it closed in 1945. The station re-opened again in 1965. The crews have received several awards for gallantry and now operate two inshore lifeboats.
Support Newquay Lifeboat...
With thanks to the RNLI for allowing us to use their images and information
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