Fistral Beach

Newquay

Fistral Beach in Newquay is renowned for its sweeping sandy shores and powerful waves, making it a premier destination for surfers and beachgoers alike.

Sandy

Yes

Yes

Yes

Fistral Beach

Fistral Beach, nestled in Newquay, stands as the epicenter of British surfing. This expansive golden sandy beach stretches about a mile long and can extend up to a mile wide at low tide, offering ample space for family activities. However, visitors should exercise caution due to the strong rip currents and generally larger waves, a result of its exposure to Atlantic swells.

Newquay epitomises the quintessential Cornwall holiday experience, offering a plethora of attractions to delight every visitor. With its picturesque beaches, breathtaking vistas, renowned surf spots, diverse culinary scene, and top-tier art galleries, Newquay is a destination that leaves visitors yearning for more. It's no surprise that people return to Newquay year after year, captivated by its charm and endless array of delights.

About Fistral Beach

Overlooking Fistral Beach is the iconic Towan headland, with a prominent hotel perched near Little Fistral on the north shore. This hotel is a defining feature of Newquay, often captured in images of the beach as it towers over the landscape. The beach is backed by sand dunes, beyond which lies the Newquay Golf Course, adding to the scenic view.

Fistral Beach is a family-friendly destination that becomes particularly bustling during peak summer times. Arriving early on a sunny day is advisable to secure a good spot. The beach is divided into three main areas: South Fistral, North Fistral, and Little Fistral, which is visible only at low tide.

Equipped with all necessary amenities, including toilets, ice cream shops, clothing stores, surf hire, and beachfront restaurants, Fistral offers a complete beach experience. The summer evenings are particularly magical here, as one can enjoy the sunset while watching surfers ride the waves on the horizon.

Fistral Beach offers excellent conditions for swimming on calm days. Nonetheless, it's crucial to evaluate the water conditions prior to entering. For enhanced safety, swim with a partner or in a group, and ensure that you remain within sight of the lifeguards.

Fistral Beach is a premier destination for surfing enthusiasts, renowned for its consistent and powerful waves that attract both beginners and seasoned surfers alike. The beach's exposure to Atlantic swells ensures a steady supply of good surf throughout the year. Surf schools and rental shops are conveniently located along the beach, offering lessons and equipment for those looking to learn or improve their skills. Whether you're catching your first wave or honing your technique, Fistral Beach provides an ideal setting for an unforgettable surfing experience.

Fistral Beach offers two toilet facilities: one located near Rick Stein's restaurant and additional toilets near the steps at South Fistral Beach. Both sets of facilities are closed at dusk.

At Fistral Beach, you and your family can delight in discovering marine life in the rockpools, especially during low tide when they are most accessible. These pools, teeming with a variety of sea creatures from crabs to prawns and occasionally small fish, are located on both the left and right sides of the beach. Exploring these natural aquariums is a surefire way to add excitement to your visit.

Visiting Fistral Beach at low tide is ideal, as the receding water reveals a vast expanse of sand, perfect for family activities. The quieter area at the back of the beach offers a tranquil spot where you can discover small rock pools teeming with marine life.

At high tide, Fistral Beach can be completely submerged, so it's important to check the tide times before your visit. Typical tides in Cornwall range from 5.2m to 5.7m. However, during larger spring tides, especially when combined with bigger waves, conditions at Fistral Beach can become hazardous. For your safety, always ensure to verify the tide times and be cautious during these more volatile sea conditions.

Fistral Beach Address

Fistral Beach
Headland Road
Newquay
TR7 1HY

Map of Fistral Beach

Fistral Beach

How do you get to Fistral Beach

Fistral Beach is easily accessible by foot along the picturesque coastal path, which connects from several nearby locations. You can begin your walk from Little Fistral Beach, Towan Beach, or the Crantock Beach area. Each route offers a scenic, short stroll that leads directly to Fistral Beach, allowing you to enjoy the stunning coastal views as you approach. These pathways are well-trodden and clearly marked, making them suitable for walkers of all ages and offering a pleasant journey to one of Newquay's most famous beaches.

To reach Fistral Beach by car, start on the A30 from Exeter or the A38 from Plymouth. At Indian Queens, switch to the A39 and follow it until you reach the A392. Continue on the A392 all the way to Newquay. Once in Newquay, you'll cross two roundabouts; after the second roundabout, make a right turn to head towards Fistral Beach. Follow the signs directing you to the Fistral Beach car park, which is conveniently located near the beach, providing easy access for your visit.

Fistral Beach General Information

Beach Type: Sandy

Dog Friendly: All year round

Public Toilets:Fistral Beach features two toilet facilities, one conveniently situated near Rick Stein's establishment and another near the steps at South Fistral Beach. Both facilities close at dusk.

The car park provides easy access, including designated disabled parking spaces.

Lifeguard Cover: Normal Peak Season Patrol times 10am – 6pm - Check to see if a lifeguard is on duty before entering the water.

Fistral Beach FAQs

Are there lifeguards at Fistral Beach?2024-04-28T11:32:40+01:00

Yes, lifeguards are present at Fistral Beach from April to October, providing safety oversight during the busy months.

Can you swim at Fistral Beach?2024-04-28T11:29:06+01:00

Yes, you can swim at Fistral Beach, but it’s important to be cautious due to the presence of strong rip currents and larger waves. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months to ensure swimmer safety.

Does Fistral Beach have toilets?2024-04-28T11:30:48+01:00

Yes, Fistral Beach has toilet facilities located near Rick Stein’s restaurant and by the steps at South Fistral Beach. These facilities close at dusk.

Is Fistral Beach car park free?2024-04-28T11:29:33+01:00

No, Fistral Beach car park is not free. There is a charge for parking, which contributes to the maintenance and upkeep of the area.

Is Fistral Beach good for beginner surfers?2024-04-28T11:30:13+01:00

Fistral Beach can be suitable for beginners in surfing, especially during milder weather conditions and when supervised by instructors. However, beginners should always be cautious of the strong currents.

What amenities are available at Fistral Beach?2024-04-28T11:33:37+01:00

Fistral Beach is well-equipped with amenities, including restaurants, cafes, surf hire shops, and a variety of retail stores. These facilities make it a convenient and enjoyable destination for both day-trippers and long-term visitors.

What is Fistral Beach’s postcode?2024-04-28T11:32:13+01:00

The postcode for Fistral Beach is TR7 1HY. This can be used for navigation systems and planning your visit.

Why is Fistral Beach famous?2024-04-28T11:28:30+01:00

Fistral Beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, being dubbed the home of British surfing. It hosts major international surfing competitions, attracting surfers from around the globe.

Weather At Fistral Beach

Check the weather forcast for Fistral Beach. Check our weather forcast for the next few days.

Tide Times At Fistral Beach

Planning a beach day at Fistral Beach? Don’t forget to check the tide times today! These are today's tides for Fistral

11 August 2025

Time Type Height
01:20 low 0.52m
07:15 high 6.85m
13:34 low 0.58m
19:35 high 7.19m

12 August 2025

Time Type Height
02:00 low 0.4m
07:54 high 6.91m
14:15 low 0.54m
20:15 high 7.18m

View full 7 day tide times.

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