Golfing in Newquay: Discovering the Best Courses by the Sea

23rd September 2024

Newquay might be a charming seaside resort, fishing port, and the surfing capital of the UK, but it’s not all about the water. If you’d like to get away from the beach, we’ve got the perfect place for you—the golf course. 

The town is home to some lovely courses. If you’re looking for a less beachy place to get meditative, do some light exercise, and clear your mind, check out these: Newquay’s best golf courses.

Photo by Max Smith on Unsplash

Holywell Bay Golf 

Holywell Bay is somewhat unique. They house a full 18-hole course, with a twist… You’ll find all 18 holes to be par 3s, which is rare but makes it a fun and different kind of play. They’ve been called the number one pitch-and-putt course in the Southwest, so if you’re around, don’t miss the chance to tick this interesting experience off your golfing bucket list. 

It’s a really relaxed atmosphere, too. There’s no dress code and no age limit, so it’s a fun place for friends, families with young kids, and couples to just hang out and have fun together. You can hire clubs too (no sharing!) 

There’s also a fun 16-hole mini golf course, great for kids but equally fun for adults who don’t feel like hitting the “big people’s” course. Whichever course you decide to play, you’ll be treated to amazing views over Holywell Bay.

Note: Holywell is a cashless facility, so don’t be carrying notes around with you. They also offer special prices for emergency services, armed forces, and school groups, as well as having specials throughout the year. Keep an eye out! 

Treloy Golf Club

Treloy is perfect for golfers who are short on time because they’re a 9-hole course. If you’ve got a little more time on your hands, you can play through it twice for a full 18-hole experience. Experienced golfers might find it to be a little less exciting, though—there are no par 5s at all, so it’s going to be a game of irons. 

This course was designed back in 1991, and it was the first in Cornwall with sculpted greens and strategic molding. It hasn’t changed much since then, but it’s still maintained at the same level as a full championship course. 

If you want a round here, book in advance—spots fill up surprisingly quick, so don’t miss out. It might be small and not too fancy, but it’s considered a little hidden gem. 

Newquay Golf Club

The views alone make this course worth the play! It looks right out over the area’s prime surfing spot, Fistral Beach, but that also means you can expect a steady ocean wind on most days, unless you strike it lucky. 

The course is a great links-style design. Don’t expect huge elevation changes or spectacular curves here… But at the same time, it’s certainly not plain sailing either. Walking the course is harder than it looks, and those small slopes will feel much more serious to your calves. 

Pot bunkers hide in plain sight, ready to swallow shots that sway slightly off course. Keep your wedge handy. When you do make it to the green, though, you’ll be blessed with some of the best surfaces in the country. 

Whether you consider yourself a well-versed golfer or you’re less confident in your abilities, you should find a good test on these fairways—they’re a good mix of sort of bland holes and surprisingly great ones. 

Trenance Crazy Golf 

Trenance Crazy Golf is the perfect family outing. In the heart of  Trenance Valley, opposite the Newquay Zoo, it’s a fun way to spend an hour or so enjoying each other’s company. Dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re on leash! 

You don’t need to book for this mini golf course in advance—just rock up, pay, and play. One of the nicest things about this mini golf course is the beautiful setting. You’re surrounded by stunning gardens, which involve a feeling of calm and uplift your mood. 

This course has been around for about 50 years. It’s just one of the many attractions in the area, but it’s a great way to relax, get some light exercise, and have some fun. 

Bouncy Castle Fun Park Crazy Golf 

The golf isn’t the main attraction here, but if you or your kids are keen on giant bouncy castles, you may as well get in a quick and fun round of golf on this 18-holer. With a Cornish theme, the course is a quirky one and worth a play. Take a picnic along! 

Other Non-Beachy Things to Do 

There’s only so much golfing and beaching you can do while you’re here. But there’s good news—we have a ton of exciting and unique activities away from both the beach and the course that you definitely shouldn’t miss while you’re here. If you’re short on time… You’ll just have to come back again. Here’s what you can enjoy in Newquay: 

Deep relaxation at Saunassa Nordic Spa 
Strategic thinking at Cornwall Laser Tag 
A unique experience at Screech Owl Sanctuary & Animal Park 
Exciting danger-tinged activities at WAX Activity Bar 
Catch some air at Hangloose Adventure EDEN

Conclusion 

Golfing in Newquay might not be top of mind when you think of the town. It’s a surfer’s paradise, but trust us, if you’re into golf, you’ll love the options. There’s not a ton of choice, but there’s just enough to satisfy every type of golfer (except perhaps big drivers). 

Traditional, links-style, short and sweet… Whatever your skill level, time constraints, or the size of your group, you’ll find some kind of golf experience here that’s worth doing. Newquay is a thriving little seaside town, so make the most of it while you’re here! 

About the Author 

Jordan Fuller is a retired golfer and businessman. When he’s not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website, Golf Influence.