Towan Beach

Towan Beach, nestled in the heart of Newquay, is a popular choice for families and those seeking a more tranquil beach experience. This stretch of golden sand, located just a few minutes walk from the town centre, is sheltered from the strong Atlantic winds, creating a peaceful environment perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and paddling in the calm waters. Unlike the surf-centric atmosphere of Fistral Beach, Towan Beach offers a more relaxed and family-friendly vibe. The gentle waves and shallow waters provide a safe environment for children to splash and play, while parents can relax on the beach or enjoy a picnic under the warm Cornish sun. Towan Beach is also equipped with convenient facilities, including beach huts for changing, showers, and public restrooms, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free day at the beach.

One of the standout features of Towan Beach is its convenient location. Situated just a short stroll from the town centre, the beach is easily accessible from a variety of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering cottages. This proximity to the town also means that visitors have easy access to a wide range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for a day out with easy access to amenities. During the summer months, Towan Beach comes alive with a range of activities and events. Sand sculpture competitions, beach games, and live music performances create a vibrant and festive atmosphere, appealing to visitors of all ages. For those seeking a more active experience, the beach offers opportunities for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even fishing from the nearby harbour. While Towan Beach may not have the same level of amenities as some of Newquay's more upscale beach destinations, it more than makes up for it with its family-friendly atmosphere and convenient location. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day by the sea or a hub for coastal activities and entertainment, Towan Beach offers something for everyone.

Towan Beach at a Glance:

• Dog-friendly — Yes, dogs are allowed on the beach all year round.

• Best time to visit — Summer for warm weather and family-friendly events, spring and autumn for fewer crowds.

• Family-friendly — Highly family-friendly, with calm waters, gentle waves, and a range of amenities.

• Surfing conditions — Not suitable for surfing, but ideal for swimming, paddling, and beach games.

• Facilities — Beach huts, showers, public restrooms, cafes and restaurants nearby, ample parking.

Towan Beach is a mecca for surfers of all levels, offering consistent waves and ideal conditions for catching the perfect ride. This section delves into the surf culture that permeates the beach, making it a hub for water sports enthusiasts.

For those new to surfing or seeking to improve their skills, Towan Beach is home to several reputable surf schools. Experienced instructors offer group and private lessons, catering to beginners and advanced surfers alike. These lessons cover everything from paddling techniques and wave selection to safety protocols and surf etiquette, ensuring a rewarding and safe surfing experience.

• Newquay Surf School — One of the most established and respected schools on Towan Beach itself, providing comprehensive group and private lessons for beginners to intermediates. Experienced instructors, and many former pro surfers.

• Wavehunters Surf School — Based right on Towan Beach. Provides multi-day surf camps and residential programs for an immersive experience. Covers techniques, theory, ocean awareness and surf culture.

• Newquay Activity Centre — Located on Towan Beach offering surf lessons along with other beach activities like coasteering and paddleboarding.

• Surf Sanctuary — Surf school with a base on Towan Beach combining yoga, meditation and an eco-conscious approach to surf instruction.

Throughout the year, Towan Beach hosts various surf competitions and events, attracting top athletes and enthusiasts from around the globe. These events showcase the talent and skill of professional surfers while promoting the vibrant surf culture that Newquay is renowned for. Spectators can witness awe-inspiring performances and enjoy the electric atmosphere that accompanies these thrilling competitions.

• Boardmasters Festival (August) — a 5-day celebration of surf, music and beach lifestyle. Includes WSL Qualifying Series competition for upcoming pros.

• English National Surfing Championships (May/June) — Premier event bringing England's best surfers to compete for national titles across divisions.

• King of the Towans (September) — Prestigious longboard surfing contest celebrating Newquay's longboard tradition.

• Grom Slam (July) —  Grass-roots youth event fostering upcoming "grommet" surfers aged 16 and under.

Towan Beach is an ideal destination for families seeking a day filled with laughter, adventure, and cherished memories. This section highlights the family-friendly amenities and activities available, ensuring an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Towan Beach offers a delightful array of playgrounds and amusements designed to captivate children of all ages, ensuring that a day at the beach is filled with endless fun and laughter. The main beach playground, strategically located just steps away from the sandy shores, is a vibrant wonderland that beckons young adventurers to unleash their imaginations. At the heart of the playground is a sprawling sandpit, where little ones can indulge in the timeless joy of building sandcastles, sculpting intricate designs, and letting their creativity run wild. Surrounding the sandpit is a collection of swings, slides, and climbing frames that cater to different age groups and skill levels, providing a safe and engaging environment for children to burn off energy and explore their physical abilities.

The nearby amusement park offers a delightful array of classic rides and attractions that are sure to delight the entire family. The nostalgic merry-go-round, with its beautifully painted horses and cheerful music, invites children to embark on a whimsical journey, while the exhilarating rollercoaster promises heart-pounding thrills and unforgettable memories. Beyond the rides, the amusement park boasts a variety of carnival-style games, where children can test their skills and coordination in a fun and friendly atmosphere. From knocking down milk bottles to tossing rings onto colourful prizes, these games not only provide entertainment but also foster friendly competition and a sense of accomplishment. For families seeking a more relaxed experience, the beach playground offers shaded seating areas where parents can keep a watchful eye while their little ones explore and play. Picnic tables and grassy areas provide the perfect spot for a family picnic or a well-deserved break from the excitement.

During low tide, Towan Beach reveals a fascinating world of natural wonders, inviting families to explore the captivating realms of rock pools and tidal zones. These areas become a treasure trove of marine life, offering an up-close encounter with vibrant anemones, darting crabs, and a myriad of other fascinating creatures. Guided rock pooling tours, led by experts, provide an educational and interactive experience, teaching children about the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems while instilling a deep appreciation for the natural world. Beachcombing is another beloved activity at Towan Beach, where families can scour the shoreline in search of unique shells, sea glass, and other treasures left behind by the receding tides. This leisurely pursuit not only fosters a connection with nature but also encourages patience, observation skills, and a sense of wonder in young minds.

Towan Beach is a haven for dog owners and their furry companions, offering a welcoming environment where pets can safely enjoy the seaside. This section provides valuable information for those planning to bring their four-legged friends to the beach.

Designated areas along Towan Beach are set aside for dog walking and exercise, ensuring a harmonious experience for all beachgoers. These designated zones allow dogs to run freely, burn off excess energy, and enjoy the sights and smells of the ocean breeze. Owners can relax and let their pets roam without worrying about disturbing other visitors.

• Towan Beach Dog Exercise Area — A spacious stretch of sand located at the northern end of the beach, specifically designated for dogs to roam freely, play fetch, and enjoy the sights and smells of the ocean breeze.

• Upton Towans Dog Walking Zone — The adjacent Upton Towans Beach provides an expansive area for leashed dog walking, allowing owners and their pets to explore the dunes and coastal paths while taking in the stunning scenery.

Towan Beach goes above and beyond to cater to the needs of dog owners, offering a comprehensive range of pet-friendly amenities and services that ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for both furry friends and their human companions.

Water Bowls — Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the warmer months. Towan Beach has strategically placed water bowls along the beachfront and in shaded areas, allowing dogs to quench their thirst whenever needed. These bowls are regularly cleaned and refilled, ensuring a fresh supply of water is always available.

Dog Waste Disposal Stations — Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is a top priority, and Towan Beach has installed numerous dog waste disposal stations at convenient locations. These stations are equipped with waste bags and bins, making it easy for owners to responsibly dispose of their pet's waste. Clear signage and educational materials reinforce the importance of keeping the beach clean for everyone's enjoyment.

Pet-Friendly Cafés and Restaurants — After a day of fun in the sun, both owners and their furry companions may work up an appetite. Towan Beach is surrounded by a variety of cafés and restaurants that welcome well-behaved dogs in their outdoor seating areas. These establishments often offer dog-friendly menus, water bowls, and even treats for their canine guests, ensuring a delightful dining experience for the whole family.

Dog Wash Stations — A day at the beach can leave dogs covered in sand and saltwater. To address this, Towan Beach has installed convenient dog wash stations, allowing owners to give their furry friends a thorough rinse before heading home. These stations feature adjustable water pressure, raised platforms, and even pet-safe shampoo dispensers, making the post-beach cleanup a breeze.

Doggy Day Care and Pet Sitting Services — For those seeking a little alone time or planning to explore activities where dogs are not permitted, Towan Beach offers reliable doggy day care and pet sitting services. These professional services provide a safe and comfortable environment for dogs, ensuring they are well-cared for while their owners enjoy other aspects of their beach vacation.

With these thoughtful amenities and services, Towan Beach ensures that both dogs and their owners can make the most of their seaside experience, creating cherished memories together in a welcoming and pet-friendly environment

In today's digital age, Towan Beach offers visitors the convenience of staying informed about current conditions and planning their visits accordingly. This section explores the beach's webcam and live update features, providing real-time insights into the beach's atmosphere and wave conditions.

Towan Beach understands the importance of staying informed and making the most of every visit. To this end, the beach offers a state-of-the-art live webcam system that provides real-time visual updates on current conditions. This invaluable resource allows beachgoers to preview the scene before their arrival, ensuring they can plan their activities accordingly. The live webcam feed, accessible through Towan Beach's website and mobile app, offers a panoramic view of the entire beach, capturing the subtle nuances of the weather, crowd levels, and wave conditions. Users can zoom in and out, panning across the shoreline to get a comprehensive understanding of the beach's atmosphere.

In addition to the visual feed, the webcam system integrates various data points, including weather forecasts, tide times, and surf reports. This information is displayed alongside the live stream, providing visitors with a complete picture of what to expect during their visit. For avid surfers and water sports enthusiasts, the webcam's wave-monitoring capabilities are invaluable. By analysing the live feed, users can assess the wave height, shape, and consistency, enabling them to determine the ideal conditions for their desired activities. The webcam system is also equipped with a time-lapse feature, allowing users to observe how conditions have evolved over a specific period. This feature is particularly useful for those planning extended stays, as it helps them identify patterns and make informed decisions about the best times to visit the beach.

Staying connected with Towan Beach's social media channels provides visitors with up-to-the-minute updates and alerts regarding special events, surf competitions, and any pertinent information that may impact their beach experience. By following these channels, beachgoers can stay informed and plan their visits accordingly, maximising their enjoyment and ensuring they don't miss out on exciting happenings. The beach's official social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, serve as valuable resources for beachgoers. These platforms are regularly updated with posts ranging from weather alerts and surf reports to event announcements and beach advisories.

Visitors can follow these channels to receive timely notifications and updates delivered straight to their mobile devices. Whether it's a sudden change in weather conditions, an upcoming surf competition, or a beach cleanup event, the social media team at Towan Beach ensures that the community stays informed and can plan their visits accordingly. The social media channels also provide a platform for community engagement. Beachgoers can share their experiences, ask questions, and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the beach and its activities. The social media team actively monitors these channels, responding to inquiries and addressing any concerns raised by the community. This two-way communication fosters a sense of inclusivity and ensures that the needs and preferences of visitors are heard and addressed. By leveraging the power of social media, Towan Beach has created a dynamic and interactive platform that keeps visitors informed, engaged, and connected, enhancing the overall beach experience for everyone involved.

While Towan Beach is the heart of Newquay's beach scene, its neighbouring Upton Towans Beach offers a seamless extension of sandy bliss. This section explores the unique features and experiences awaiting visitors at this connected beach paradise.

While Towan Beach is the centrepiece of Newquay's beach scene, its neighbouring Upton Towans Beach offers a seamless extension of sandy bliss, creating a continuous stretch of coastal paradise. The two beaches are connected by a scenic coastal path, allowing visitors to easily explore the full expanse of Newquay's shoreline without interruption. The path, meticulously maintained and marked, winds its way along the rugged cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Newquay headland. As visitors stroll or cycle along the trail, they are treated to a constantly changing panorama, with each twist and turn revealing new vistas and geological formations. The path provides a gentle incline, making it accessible for all fitness levels. Benches and lookout points are strategically placed along the way, inviting visitors to pause, take in the scenery, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the local wildlife, including seabirds soaring overhead and marine mammals frolicking in the waves below.

Avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts will find the path equally appealing, as it offers opportunities for more challenging treks and exploration. Side trails branch off from the main path, leading intrepid adventurers to hidden coves, secluded beaches, and even ancient historical sites, providing a glimpse into Newquay's rich cultural heritage. The path is not just a means of transportation but also a destination in itself, offering a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty and a chance to immerse oneself in the rugged charm of Cornwall's coastline. Whether strolling hand-in-hand with a loved one or embarking on a solo adventure, the connection between Towan Beach and Upton Towans Beach promises an unforgettable experience.

Upton Towans Beach, the northern extension of Newquay's coastal paradise, offers a unique and tranquil escape for those seeking solitude and a more secluded beach experience. While sharing the same stunning coastline as Towan Beach, Upton Towans Beach boasts a distinctly different ambience, one that captivates visitors with its vast expanse, rolling dunes, and a sense of untamed wilderness. One of the defining features of Upton Towans Beach is its abundance of space, which allows visitors to spread out and find their private oasis along the shoreline. Families can stake out a secluded spot, building sandcastles and playing games without the hustle and bustle of larger crowds.

Upton Towans Beach offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. The dunes, sculpted by the relentless winds, provide a playground for intrepid explorers who can hike and climb their way to the top, taking in panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside. Beachcombers will delight in the treasures that Upton Towans Beach has to offer, with each tide revealing a new array of shells, driftwood, and other fascinating finds. The beach's remote location and minimal foot traffic increase the likelihood of discovering rare and unique specimens, adding to the thrill of the hunt.

No beach day is complete without indulging in delicious snacks and refreshments to fuel the fun-filled activities or simply savour the seaside ambience. Towan Beach and its surrounding areas offer a diverse culinary scene that caters to every taste and craving, ensuring visitors can find the perfect bite or sip to complement their beach experience. For those seeking a quick and casual meal, the beachfront is dotted with charming cafés and kiosks that serve up a mouthwatering array of grab-and-go options. From traditional Cornish pasties, brimming with savoury fillings, to freshly prepared sandwiches and salads, these eateries provide the perfect fuel for an action-packed day on the sand. Visitors can also indulge in sweet treats like creamy ice cream cones or refreshing sorbets, offering a delightful respite from the warm coastal sun. 

As the evening approaches, Towan Beach and its surrounding areas transform into a culinary haven, with a diverse selection of restaurants and pubs awaiting visitors. These establishments showcase the finest in local and regional cuisine, featuring fresh seafood caught daily, succulent meats sourced from nearby farms, and an array of locally grown produce that bursts with flavour. For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Newquay boasts several renowned restaurants helmed by talented chefs who artfully blend classic Cornish flavours with contemporary culinary techniques. From cosy bistros to elegant eateries with breathtaking ocean views, these establishments offer a sophisticated yet relaxed ambience, perfect for a romantic evening or a celebratory occasion.

Cafés and Kiosks

• The Beachcomber Café — This casual café offers stunning ocean views and a menu of light bites and refreshments.

• Sandy Toes Kiosk — Grab a quick snack or cold drink from this conveniently located beachfront kiosk.

• Towan Treats — Indulge your sweet tooth with homemade baked goods and ice cream treats from this beloved café.

• Salty Seagull Snack Bar — Fuel up for a day of fun with classic beach fare like fish and chips from this relaxed snack bar.

Restaurants

• The Crab Shack (Seafood) — Savor the freshest local catch prepared in inventive ways at this casual seafood eatery.

• Dune's Kitchen (Contemporary British) — Enjoy elevated takes on traditional British dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

• Shorepine Bistro (Mediterranean) — Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with flavorful dishes at this cosy bistro.

• The Surfer's Table (International Fusion) — Globally-inspired fusion cuisine in a laidback, surfer-chic atmosphere.

Pubs and Bars

• The Towans Inn — Unwind with a cold pint or cocktail at this classic British pub with a beachy vibe.

• The Salty Dog — Dog-friendly pub offering a wide selection of local brews and hearty pub grub.

• Beachside Taphouse — Extensive craft beer selection and shareable snacks in a lively taproom setting.

• Wave's End Bar & Grill — Oceanfront bar and grill perfect for sunset drinks and coastal-inspired cuisine.

Towan Beach and the surrounding Newquay area are committed to promoting sustainable tourism and implementing conservation efforts to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the region. This section highlights the initiatives in place to ensure a responsible and eco-friendly beach experience.

Beach Cleanup and Waste Management — Regular beach cleanups and effective waste management practices are integral to maintaining the pristine condition of Towan Beach. Local organisations and volunteers work tirelessly to remove litter and debris from the beach, ensuring a clean and safe environment for visitors and wildlife alike. Recycling stations and educational signage encourage beachgoers to properly dispose of their waste and minimise their environmental impact.

Marine Life Conservation — Towan Beach is home to a diverse array of marine life, including various species of fish, crustaceans, and seabirds. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these ecosystems and raise awareness about the importance of preserving the delicate balance of the coastal environment. Through educational programs and partnerships with local organisations, visitors can learn about responsible practices and ways to support marine life conservation efforts.

With its stunning natural beauty, ample amenities, and welcoming atmosphere, Towan Beach truly stands as Newquay's crown jewel. Whether seeking a relaxing day by the sea, an adrenaline-fueled surfing adventure, or a family-friendly coastal getaway, this iconic beach offers something for everyone. By embracing its rich surf culture, respecting the environment, and providing top-notch facilities, Towan Beach continues to captivate visitors from near and far, solidifying its reputation as a 

must-visit destination along the breathtaking Cornish coastline.