Lusty Glaze Beach, Newquay

The hidden gem amongst the five popular Newquay beaches, Lusty Glaze is an idyllic choice for those on family beach holidays in North Cornwall. Although smaller than some of the other Newquay sands, Lusty Glaze has plenty going on and is sheltered by scenic cliffs, adding to its appeal.

Lusty Glaze Beach boasts silky sand, safe swimming and, although privately owned, is open every day of the year. There is a lifeguarding service during the summer, and as it’s a popular beach with surfers there is always something to try or watch while you relax!

Watergate Bay, Newquay

Another favourite with those on beach holidays in North Cornwall, Watergate Bay. Watergate Bay in Newquay has it all. From great waves for the surfers, miles of soft sand for the families and The Extreme Academy for the energetic visitors...there really is something for everyone!

The Extreme Academy enables visitors to have a go at a range of extreme sports, and what better place to do it?!

Also, Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall restaurant overlooks Watergate Bay, so if you fancy a special treat after a day on the beach then this is the perfect spot.

Rock Beach, Rock

If you fancy a more glamorous beach holiday in North Cornwall, Rock is the place for you. Known as the Kensington of Cornwall, Rock is home to more millionaires than anywhere else in the South West, and the beach is a great one for yacht spotting and mingling with the jet set! Because of this, Rock Beach has a peaceful atmosphere and is a lovely stretch of sand to enjoy relaxing time as a family or a romantic day as a couple.

Rock is a very sheltered beach, so it’s popular with anglers, windsurfers and rowers – although the surf isn’t as good as many of the other beaches in North Cornwall.

Widemouth Bay, Bude

Bude is the most northern seaside town in Cornwall, so if you want the ultimate North Cornwall beach holiday this is it! Widemouth Bay has a lengthy sandy beach and part of its charm is the stunning scenery surrounding it. Visitors are treated to views of the mysterious Lundy Island and surrounding rugged cliffs.

Although Widemouth Bay is not Bude’s most popular beach for surfing, the rich birdlife in the area makes it a hotspot for birdwatchers and it’s a great starting point for some cliff top walks too! Widemouth Bay was once a favourite stretch of coast with smugglers, and the caves to the south of the beach hide fascinating secrets from Cornwall’s past!

Treyarnon Beach, Padstow

Although a relatively unknown one, Treyarnon Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Cornwall. The beach is found in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the sections of oast path in the area are absolutely stunning. Treyarnon is a great North Cornwall beach for families and those who like to escape the crowds.

The beach is sandy, and has more than its share of rock pools to explore so the children will be entertained while the adults enjoy the sun and scenery! The waters around the beach at Treyarnon are very safe for swimming, but steer clear of the rocks as strong rips can occur near them. Enjoy the waves!