Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
50 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
desirable
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Watergate Bay Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +14.0°C, warms up to +17.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Watergate Bay Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.2 m.
Watergate Bay Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 50 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Watergate Bay Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Watergate Bay Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Watergate Bay Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Watergate Bay Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (in summer months). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Watergate Bay Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Watergate Bay Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Watergate Bay Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: The Beach Hut, Fifteen Cornwall, The Living Space. Cuisines available: Seafood, European, British. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Watergate Bay Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Wetsuit (for surfing), Warm sweater, Waterproof jacket, Cash for parking.
Watergate Bay Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is in the morning before 11:00 when the water is calmer. For surfing the best time is at high tide and with swell. Watch the lifeguard flags.
Watergate Bay Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs are allowed year-round. Swimming is allowed only in the area between lifeguard flags. Campfires are prohibited on the beach.
Watergate Bay Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Watergate Bay Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers and water sports enthusiasts thanks to consistent waves and a surf school. Suitable for families with children in the shallows on calm days. Not suitable for those seeking calm swimming in warm water.
Watergate Bay Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is known as the home of kitesurfing in the UK and hosts the English National Surfing Championships. The Watergate Bay Hotel is located here, with Jamie Oliver-s restaurant "Fifteen Cornwall".
Watergate Bay Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Nearly 3 km of golden sand, One of Cornwall-s best surfing beaches, RNLI lifeguards in summer season, Surf school and equipment rental, Well-developed infrastructure: cafes, restaurants, hotels, Dogs allowed year-round, Scenic cliffs and Atlantic views. Cons: Can be windy and cool even in summer, Strong waves and currents, unsafe for weak swimmers, Paid parking in summer season and can be full, Crowded in high season, Rocky sections on the shore, Limited number of toilets and showers.
Watergate Bay Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Newquay, Tintagel Castle, Beacon Cove, National Surfing Centre. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Watergate Bay Beach: how do I get to the city of Newquay?
The beach is located near the city of Newquay. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Newquay.