Experience Newquay like a local – the 24-hour guide

5th March 2020

With a string of breathtaking beaches peppered around the coastline, award-winning restaurants and stylish bars in abundance, Newquay really is the ultimate playground for all this Spring. 

Local blogger and Instagrammer Lowenna Pascoe aka Cornwall Lover gives us the down low on all things Newquay, giving you the chance to ‘experience’ the town like a local.

See Newquay’s Coastline from the Water 

Why experience just one activity, when you can have two? The team at Newquay Activity Centre have heaps of water activities on the adrenaline junkie menu, but my absolute favourite is the kayaking and coasteering duo. Paddle through crystal clear waters, scale the cliffs and feel the thrill as you take the plunge into the Atlantic. There really is no feeling like it.  

The team are with you every step of the way and guide you into some of Newquay’s best-kept secret locations, where only the wildlife hangout. 

Find out more about the Kayak Coasteer with Newquay Activity Centre

Sunset Suppers

If there’s one thing Newquay does best, it’s putting on a spectacular fiery show as the sunsets below the horizon. Pair that with a feast at Newquay’s favourite seafood restaurant and you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

The Fish House is a small family run restaurant, located on the world famous Fistral beach. Dine here for lunch or dinner, sampling locally caught seafood pulled from the ocean that morning. My favourite dish is the Sri Lankan curry, and if I’m feeling extra naughty, I’ll start with the creamy cooked camembert (thank me later).

Book a table at the Fish House 

Float along the River Gannel

A place close to my heart, the Gannel is the river that flows into the Atlantic ocean at Crantock beach. When the tide is low, it creates a beautiful walk along the sand, with nothing but the sound of flowing river and the surrounding wildlife. My Dad used to bring me here every weekend as a little girl to play, while he sat with his binoculars and looked out for the local birds. At high tide, it makes the perfect setting for stand up paddleboarding. 

Newquay Activity Centre offer a Gannel SUP adventure, which makes for a tranquil alternative to the waves of Newquay's beaches.

Find out more here 

Take a Front Row Seat 

Digging into a Cornish cream tea, might not sound like ‘living like a local’ but do this at the Fern Pit Café, away from the crowds and you’ll see why we all love it here so much. This hidden spot can be found overlooking the River Gannel and is accessible from Pentire Headland or the steps below. The views are absolutely incredible.

Watch the paddle boarders and kayakers, see the kids paddle in and out of the river and watch as the locals drop their fishing nets from the rocks. If you want to dig into something more savoury, then the crab sandwiches are just divine. 

Check out the Fern Pit Café 

Ramble along the South West Coast Path 

When the beaches get too crowded, we like to head onto the cliff tops, set up camp and enjoy a picnic as we watch the world go by below. One of my favourite stretches of coast path is around Fistral. From the famous Huer’s Hut, strolling past Little Fistral, Big Fistral and then up towards Pentire Headland. Here you will be greeted with panoramic views of Crantock beach one side and Fistral the other. There are plenty of spots to throw a blanket down and enjoy a little you time. 

See all more walks around Newquay 

If you want more inspiration on things to see and do in Newquay check out our Things to do Guide