Newquay
Newquay may be blessed with those endless sandy beaches, but itās home to more attractions than youāll possibly squeeze into one visit. The Blue Reef Aquarium is right on the seafront, and itās one of the most popular Newquay attractions. Complete with an underwater tunnel, itās home to some of the weird and wonderful creatures that call our seas home.
Sticking with the animal theme, Newquay Zoo covers 13 acres of tropical gardens. With some of the worldās most endangered species waiting to welcome you, itās a popular day out with all ages.
If you fancy a laidback day during your Newquay holiday, pack up a picnic and head over to the tranquillity of Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park. Sit back and watch the swans do their thing on the boating lake or enjoy a spot of tennis, crazy golf, a miniature railway or even the Waterworld Leisure Centre.
Every family holiday needs at least one journey on a steam train, and the Lappa Valley Steam Railway is the perfect way to see some of the regionās infamous scenery. Youāll find Benny Halt just outside Newquay, and itās one of Cornwallās most nostalgic days out.
Thereās one thing guests of our Newquay holiday cottages have in common, and thatās a love of gorgeous sandy beaches. Newquay has a beautiful beach to suit your every mood, so itās really just a question of finding your favourite.
If itās surfing and adventure youāre after, head over to the legendary Fistral Beach. Fistral Beach Surf School offers beginner lessons for all ages, and most newbies will be able to stand on the board after a two-hour lesson. If youāre happy to enjoy the view from the sand, youāll have mile after mile of cliff-backed beach to call your own.
Just three miles from central Newquay youāll find the sleepy sands of Watergate Bay beach. Tucked beneath steep cliffs, this sandy beach rolls on for two miles, and itās just the spot for a long walk before a fish and chip dinner.
Newquayās many beaches also include Crantock, Great Western, Porth Joke, Mawgan Porth, Towan Beach and the Harbour Beach. Every single stretch of sand has its own character, and if youāre taking the dog, many of them are dog friendly all year round. So, get ready to unroll that beach towel and rock those flip flops.
All that fresh sea air means youāll have big appetites during your Newquay holiday, so itās great news that the townās home to some foodie favourites. Rick Stein Fistral serves up seafood with style, and the restaurant looks out across Fistral Beach below. Youāll also find The Fish House Fistral beside the infamous home of Cornwallās surf scene. The menu features the fresh catch of the day, so you can enjoy the seafood landed at Newquayās harbour just hours before.
If you know what you like and you like what you know, thereās a classic Pizza Express. Perfect for an easy meal with the kids after a busy day on the sand, it even has sea views to remind you that youāre on holiday. The Harbour Fish & Grill sits nestled into the cliffs above the townās harbour. Pick a seat in the conservatory or on the terrace to make the most of sweeping views across Newquayās seven spectacular beaches.
For something a little bit different, enjoy a blend of Australian and Cornish cuisine over at Bush Pepperās. This quirky restaurant in the town centre has a friendly feel and is a great spot for brunch before you head out for the day.
Read our guide to holidays in Newquay Here.
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