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Newquay

United Kingdom · Coast · GBP · 50.412200, -5.075600
Family friendly 5.6/10 · Rank 1851 of 2 709
Best season: June-September

Best for

Surfing and water sports lovers, families with children, and travellers seeking a beach holiday and active lifestyle on the Cornish coast

Best season

June-September

Daily budget
$144.00 (≈ 12 084 ₽ · ≈ 114 GBP)
For 7 days
$1 008.00 (≈ 84 591 ₽ · ≈ 796 GBP)
Newquay is the main surfing centre on the Cornish coast, known for its huge waves and sandy beaches. The town attracts young people from around the world with its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. It is an ideal place for active holidays and water sports.
Summer
25.0°C
Winter
3.0°C
Sea
18.5°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Newquay residents are friendly, open and cheerful people, many of whom are connected to surfing and tourism. They value nature, love their town and are always ready to help tourists

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Some of the best surfing beaches in England
  • Scenic Cornish coastline
  • Excellent seafood restaurants
  • Developed infrastructure for active recreation
  • Fresh sea air
  • Friendly atmosphere

Cons

  • Cool water even in summer (maximum 18°C)
  • High prices in high season
  • Frequent rains and winds
  • No direct flights from Moscow
  • Far from major cities
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
16.4°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
19.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
25.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
7.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
9.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
3.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
17.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
18.5°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-January
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Fistral Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

Strong rip currents possible, especially at Fistral Beach. Swimming is recommended only in lifeguard-patrolled zones. Jellyfish possible in summer

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in the coastal waters of Newquay are represented by common species inhabiting rocky bottoms and kelp beds. They do not pose a serious danger, but special swimming shoes are recommended
  • Sea urchins are found at local fish markets where they are sold by fishermen. In 2025, a tragic incident occurred: a 26-year-old Briton died after a sea urchin sting while snorkelling on a coral reef in Fiji

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are absent off the coast of Newquay — the region belongs to the temperate waters of the Celtic Sea. Marine ecosystems are represented by rocky reefs, kelp forests and temperate fish species
  • The popular dive site Porth Rock Reef is known for corals, crustaceans, spider crabs and exceptionally large starfish. The Blue Reef Aquarium features a Caribbean coral reef exhibit

Jellyfish — details

  • Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) — the most common species off the Cornish coast, appears in summer months, stings are mild but unpleasant
  • Root-mouth jellyfish (Rhizostoma octopus) — large jellyfish, less common, can cause more severe skin irritation

Sharks — details

  • About 30 shark species inhabit Cornish waters, including the basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) — the second largest fish in the world, which feeds on plankton and is not dangerous to humans
  • Blue sharks (Prionace glauca) also migrate through Cornish waters but prefer deep water and are not aggressive towards people. The Blue Reef Aquarium features 7 shark species, including blacktip reef sharks
Attractions

Fistral Beach

One of the most famous surfing beaches in England, with golden sand, powerful waves and developed infrastructure. International surfing competitions are held here

Blue Reef Aquarium

Aquarium with marine life of Cornwall, including sharks, turtles and tropical fish, ideal for family holidays

Headland Hotel

Historic Victorian hotel on a cliff with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, restaurants and a spa centre

Newquay Promenade

Scenic promenade with restaurants, cafes, surf equipment shops and bars, a popular spot for walks

Watergate Bay Beach

Spacious sandy beach with fine dining restaurants, including the famous restaurant by chef Jamie Oliver

Best areas

Fistral

Area around the famous beach with hotels, surf schools, restaurants and bars, popular among surfers and young people

Town Centre

Historic part of Newquay with shops, pubs, restaurants and the promenade, where you can buy everything for a beach holiday

Watergate Bay

Upscale area with a spacious beach, fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels, popular among families and couples

Must-try food

Cornish Pasty

Traditional pastry pie filled with beef, potato, carrot and onion, the signature dish of Cornwall

Fish and Chips

Classic British dish — crispy battered cod with French fries, served with mushy peas and tartar sauce

Cornish Cream Tea

Traditional dessert of warm scones with jam and clotted cream, served with tea

Grilled Seafood

Fresh seafood, including lobsters, crabs and mussels, popular in Newquay's coastal restaurants

Where to go next

Padstow

Scenic town 25 km away with harbour, restaurants and Jamie Oliver's house-museum

Truro

Historic city 30 km away with Gothic cathedral, museums and picturesque streets

Land's End

The westernmost point of England 60 km away with dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views

St Ives

Scenic coastal town 40 km away with beach, galleries and restaurants

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Ньюки Аэропорт (NQY).
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Visa
Visa requirements
Schengen
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
June-September
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$28.00
≈ 2 350 ₽ · ≈ 22 GBP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 63 GBP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 95 GBP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$220.00
≈ 18 462 ₽ · ≈ 174 GBP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$180.00
≈ 15 106 ₽ · ≈ 142 GBP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$110.00
≈ 9 231 ₽ · ≈ 87 GBP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 14 GBP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 32 GBP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 3 GBP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 5 GBP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 1 GBP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$14.00
≈ 1 175 ₽ · ≈ 11 GBP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 9 GBP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 5 GBP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 7 GBP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 20 GBP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 2 GBP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 6 GBP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 40 GBP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 24 GBP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 24 GBP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 47 GBP
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Newquay Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 40 GBP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
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Frequently asked questions
Newquay: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Newquay: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +25.0°C, during the day — up to +19.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Newquay: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +3.0°C, during the day — up to +9.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Newquay: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +18.5°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Newquay: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-January. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Newquay: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Fistral Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Newquay: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Newquay: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Strong rip currents possible, especially at Fistral Beach. Swimming is recommended only in lifeguard-patrolled zones. Jellyfish possible in summer. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Newquay: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $144.00 (≈ 12 084 ₽ · ≈ 114 GBP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Newquay: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $28.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $80.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $120.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $220.00 per night, an apartment — $110.00 per night, a villa — $180.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Newquay: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $18.00, dinner at a restaurant — $40.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.00, a 0.5L beer — $6.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Newquay: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Newquay: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Fistral Beach — One of the most famous surfing beaches in England, with golden sand, powerful waves and developed infrastructure. International surfing competitions are held here; Blue Reef Aquarium — Aquarium with marine life of Cornwall, including sharks, turtles and tropical fish, ideal for family holidays; Headland Hotel — Historic Victorian hotel on a cliff with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, restaurants and a spa centre; Newquay Promenade — Scenic promenade with restaurants, cafes, surf equipment shops and bars, a popular spot for walks; Watergate Bay Beach — Spacious sandy beach with fine dining restaurants, including the famous restaurant by chef Jamie Oliver. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Newquay: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Cornish Pasty — Traditional pastry pie filled with beef, potato, carrot and onion, the signature dish of Cornwall; Fish and Chips — Classic British dish — crispy battered cod with French fries, served with mushy peas and tartar sauce; Cornish Cream Tea — Traditional dessert of warm scones with jam and clotted cream, served with tea; Grilled Seafood — Fresh seafood, including lobsters, crabs and mussels, popular in Newquay's coastal restaurants. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Newquay: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Fistral — Area around the famous beach with hotels, surf schools, restaurants and bars, popular among surfers and young people; Town Centre — Historic part of Newquay with shops, pubs, restaurants and the promenade, where you can buy everything for a beach holiday; Watergate Bay — Upscale area with a spacious beach, fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels, popular among families and couples. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Newquay: is a visa required?
Visa: Schengen. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Newquay: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Ньюки Аэропорт (code NQY). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Newquay: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — GBP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $144.00 (≈ 12 084 ₽ · ≈ 114 GBP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Newquay: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Newquay: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Newquay: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Padstow — Scenic town 25 km away with harbour, restaurants and Jamie Oliver's house-museum; Truro — Historic city 30 km away with Gothic cathedral, museums and picturesque streets; Land's End — The westernmost point of England 60 km away with dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views; St Ives — Scenic coastal town 40 km away with beach, galleries and restaurants. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.6/10
Overall rank: 1851 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1123