Fistral Beach, Newquay

The sand of Fistral Beach is some of the most trodden in the UK, as hoards flock to enjoy their beach holidays in Cornwall at this Newquay Beach all year round.

Fistral is famous for its waves, and some of the surfing scene’s most skilled surfers seek out Fistral just to say they’ve surfed it.

If you’re a beginner at the sport, this is the perfect opportunity to take some lessons and try something new during your holiday, and there are a selection of surf schools and equipment hire shops to choose from.

Perranporth Beach

Anyone’s idea of an idyllic beach holiday in Cornwall is bound to resemble Perranporth...this charming village in North Cornwall has over 2 miles of sandy beach at low tide and is another surfing hotspot.

The beach’s south can become quite crowded during the busier months, but head down to the north end if you don’t mind a stroll and you’ll be able to find your own sandy haven for the day. Perranporth Beach is lifeguarded during the summer, but if you’re not confident swimming in the sea there are also 2 swimming areas which are also supervised.

Porthmeor, St Ives

Porthmeor Beach in the pretty fishing village of St Ives is another favourite with fans of Cornwall beach holidays. Porthmeor is a Blue Flag beach, so it’s perfect for those on family holidays, and is another on the list of Cornish beaches with great surf!

Porthmeor Beach basks at the foot of Tate St Ives, the village’s own version of London’s Tate. Porthmeor Beach is convenient as its so close to the town centre, and you’ll find all the usual amenities and facilities close by. The surf is perfect for beginners to intermediate surfers and bodyboarders too!

Summerleaze Beach, Bude

Summerleaze Beach in Bude is a treasure of a Cornwall beach, especially if you’re planning a dog-friendly beach holiday in Cornwall! This beautiful North Cornwall beach is a beautiful beach ideal for families and welcomes dogs all year round.

The roomy expanse of sand makes this a popular beach with kite surfers, and watching them whoosh their way along the sands is a delightful way to while away some time. Summerleaze Beach has a free tidal pool too, as well as seasonal lifeguards, a beach cafe and a flat viewing area. The large car park backs right onto the dunes, so although this beach is very central you won’t be stuck for parking.

Watergate Bay, Newquay

Newquay’s Watergate Bay is a large stretch of golden sands framed by dramatic cliffs, and its huge size even dwarves the beaches either side! Watergate Bay is just 2 miles from the centre of Newquay, yet its sprawling sands mean there’s always plenty of space, making it another favourite beach in Cornwall.

Watergate Bay is also home to the Extreme Academy, a school dedicated to Extreme Sports. Anyone try something new, including surfing, kite buggying and kite surfing – so even if you don’t have a go there’s plenty to see! In summer, look out for events such as Polo on the Beach, where some of the world’s top Polo players descend to the shore.