Family adventures in Newquay: Heaps of fun, zero stress
Newquay might be known for its surf scene, but trust us—it’s a total win for families too. Whether your bunch is into creative chaos, wild outdoor fun, or just chilling with an ice cream in hand, this laid-back seaside town has loads to offer. Here’s how to do Newquay with children (without losing your mind).
Green time > screen time at Newquay Community Orchard
If you need a breather from the beach, head to Newquay Community Orchard. It’s a proper little oasis—open spaces, wildlife-spotting, and loads of cool events. There’s everything from eco workshops to random dance sessions. It’s chilled, nature-filled, and totally worth a wander.
Bodyboarding or surf lessons at Watergate Bay
Not quite ready to catch the serious waves? Bodyboards and wetsuits from Wavehunters are a great place to start. Or, if your kids are 7+, book them in for a beginner surf lesson at Watergate Bay. The instructors are experienced and super chilled and know how to get beginners up and riding without drama. It’s a spacious, scenic beach with loads of space to paddle, splash or spectate if you're more into cheering from the sidelines.
Padel @ SeaSpace
Fast-paced, easy to pick up, and super social. SeaSpace’s padel courts are perfect for family doubles or just whacking a ball around for fun. Five courts (three doubles, two singles), retractable roofs, and “Padel & Pints” if you fancy a post-game chill. Game on.
Tide Climbing Centre
Got climbers in the crew? Tide’s got over 140 bouldering problems, rope routes, and auto-belays to tackle. Plus, there’s good coffee, tasty pizzas, and a chilled-out space to hang while the kids scramble. Rainy-day energy = sorted.
Crabbing = Old School Fun
Crabbing is peak nostalgic seaside activity—and it’s still just as fun as you remember. Grab a net and a bucket, and head to one of these top spots:
Only a short walk from SeaSpace and a quiet spot with gentle tides and hidden rock pools—perfect for little crab hunters.
Classic, calm, and full of crabby potential.
Gorgeous views and a great crabbing stretch by the river.
Central and great for rockpool rummaging.
A bit of a drive but honestly worth it for top-tier crabbing.
Bounce, climb, explore
Need to wear them out? We’ve got you. Newquay Trampoline & Play Park is packed with foam pits, obstacles, and an under-12s zone. For outdoor types, Newquay Wild Activities does guided rockpool rambles and nature walks—super fun and low-key educational. And if there’s still energy to burn, Big F-T’s Shack is a beachside spot for games and exploring
Get messy at Tor Pottery
Clay-covered hands? Yes please. Tor Pottery Works is a lovely, female-led ceramics studio where children (and grown-ups) can get stuck into pottery workshops. Think painting, shaping, and making something they’ll proudly show off forever—or at least until it breaks in your suitcase. No pressure, just fun vibes and friendly guidance.
Ice cream goals at Parlour
No day out is complete without something sweet. Parlour serves up dreamy Cornish ice cream made with local milk. Bubble waffles, mega sundaes, vegan-friendly scoops—they’ve got it all. Warning: you will want seconds.
Still got time to play?
Here’s some extra family-friendly stuff to squeeze in:
Newquay keeps things easy. No overplanning, no chaos—just a mix of laid-back days, fun-filled hours, and plenty of ice cream. Whether you’re in the water, in the wild, or just watching the kids run riot, it’s the kind of family trip you’ll actually enjoy. Promise.