Watergate Bay, Newquay
Wide open sand. Weather-battered cliffs. Pumping swells. Rockpooling galore. Easily one of Cornwall’s best beaches, Watergate Bay happens to be just up the road from SeaSpace. Lucky us, right? Set out east along the coastpath on our doorstep and in 20 minutes you’ll be on the sand (it’s a five-minute drive if you wanna get there quicker).
Surfers and families alike
Whatever your beach vibe, this place can match it. Keen surfer? There’s plenty of room for everyone out back (plus it’s one of the rare spots that fires on high). Always amped for beach games? Pack that spike ball and rally your mates. After something more chill? Pick a sheltered nook by the cliffs and kick back with a book on a blanket. There are often events worth checking out here too, from Arts on the Beach in June, to surf comps, beach cleans and Sky Bar weekenders.
Walk the coast path
With 360-degree eye-popping views, Watergate’s spot on for getting your coastal walking kicks. A couple of miles along the South West Coast Path past Beacon Cove, Mawgan Porth’s well worth striking out to. Settle in for seafood with a view at Catch or kick back with an expertly-foamed flat white at Muddle & Press. This cafe-deli is well stocked with local food and wine, so take a rucksack, you’re sure to be filling it. If you’re in your walking boots and are thinking more longhaul, from here add on another two miles and you’ll be at Bedruthan Steps where the mindblowing rock stacks scream out for a selfie.
Hungry?
All this outdoorsing got your stomach growling? Right on the sand and eye to eye and with the ocean, The Beach Hut serves up hearty, flavour-packed food from breakfast ‘til dinner. Zacry’s on the sea wall brings a fresh perspective to local hero ingredients, with horizonwide views and imagination mixed right through. Or if you’re up for something more on-the-go you’ll find seriously tasty street food at No1 Cubs Coffee as well as ice cream, coffees and cakes. Done.
The essentials
Surf schools and board hire
Wavehunters on the beach will sort you out.
Family time
Sandy beach, rockpools, bodyboard-friendly waves, handy beach shop – tick!
Food & drink
The Beach Hut, Cubs Coffee, Zacrys on the sea wall
Need to know…
· Lifeguarded: spring to late autumn. Check for exact dates.
· Toilets and parking on-site
· Dog-friendly all year round