Tolcarne Beach

Newquay

Tolcarne Beach in Newquay is a picturesque, family-friendly beach known for its golden sands, clear waters, and stunning cliffs, offering excellent surfing and a range of amenities.

Sandy

Seasonal

Yes

Yes

Tolcarne Beach

Tolcarne Beach, located in the heart of Newquay, Cornwall, is a quintessentially charming seaside destination renowned for its stunning natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. This picturesque beach boasts golden sands, clear blue waters, and dramatic cliffs that provide a breathtaking backdrop for visitors. Popular among surfers and sunbathers alike, Tolcarne Beach offers excellent surf conditions and a range of amenities, including beachside cafes, surf schools, and rental shops. Whether you're looking to catch the perfect wave, enjoy a leisurely day by the sea, or explore the coastal scenery, Tolcarne Beach is an idyllic spot for all ages.

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 Tolcarne Beach

Tolcarne Beach, situated in the vibrant town of Newquay in Cornwall, is a prime example of the quintessential British seaside experience. Nestled beneath towering cliffs, this crescent-shaped beach offers stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and is renowned for its pristine golden sands and clear, inviting waters. A favourite among both locals and tourists, Tolcarne Beach is particularly popular with families, thanks to its safe swimming conditions and plethora of amenities.

Surfers are drawn to Tolcarne Beach for its consistent waves and excellent surf schools, which cater to all skill levels from beginners to seasoned pros. The beach also provides a range of facilities, including rental shops for surfboards and wetsuits, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for an enjoyable day on the water. For those preferring a more relaxed experience, the beach's ample space is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore.

Beyond the surf and sand, Tolcarne Beach offers a variety of dining options, with charming beachside cafes and restaurants serving up delicious local fare, including fresh seafood and traditional Cornish pasties. These establishments provide the perfect setting to unwind and take in the stunning coastal scenery. Additionally, the beach is well-equipped with conveniences such as toilets, showers, and lifeguard services during peak season, ensuring a comfortable and safe visit for all.

Accessibility to Tolcarne Beach is straightforward, with a set of steps and a zigzagging path leading down from the clifftop, where ample parking is available. The beach's central location in Newquay means it's just a short walk from the town's bustling shops, accommodation options, and other attractions, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or a longer stay. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking to relax by the sea, Tolcarne Beach encapsulates the beauty and charm of Cornwall's coastline.

Swimming at Tolcarne Beach offers a delightful and safe experience, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a refreshing dip in the sea. The beach's clear, clean waters provide excellent swimming conditions, particularly during the summer months when the sea is at its most inviting. The gently sloping sands ensure a gradual entry into the water, which is ideal for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Tolcarne Beach is a haven for surfing and watersports enthusiasts, offering consistent waves and excellent conditions that attract surfers from all over. The beach's reliable swell and varied breaks cater to all levels, from beginners learning to catch their first wave to experienced surfers seeking a thrilling ride. Several surf schools operate along the beach, providing lessons and equipment rentals, making it easy for newcomers to get started. Beyond surfing, Tolcarne Beach also supports a range of other watersports, including bodyboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The sheltered bay and clear waters create ideal conditions for these activities, ensuring both excitement and safety. Whether you're carving up the waves or exploring the coastline by paddleboard, Tolcarne Beach delivers an exhilarating watersports experience amidst the stunning scenery of Cornwall's coast.

Tolcarne Beach toilets are situated near the back of the beach, with additional facilities available closer to the town centre. These toilets are closed at dusk.

At Tolcarne Beach, you and your family can delight in discovering marine life within the numerous rockpools, which are best explored at low tide. These rockpools, teeming with a variety of creatures such as crabs, prawns, and small fish, are situated on both the left and right sides of the beach, providing an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

 

The best time to visit Tolcarne Beach is during low tide, as it reveals a larger expanse of sand, ideal for family activities. The rear section of the beach is typically quieter and offers a great opportunity to discover small rock pools filled with marine wildlife.

During high tide, Tolcarne Beach can be completely submerged, so it's important to check tide times before visiting. Regular tides in Cornwall range from around 5.2m to 5.7m, but during larger spring tides, especially when combined with big waves, the beach can become dangerous. Please exercise caution and always verify tide times to ensure a safe visit to Tolcarne Beach.

Tolcarne Beach Address

Tolcarne Beach
Narrowcliff
Newquay
TR7 2QN

Map of Tolcarne Beach

Tolcarne Beach

How do you get to Tolcarne Beach

Tolcarne Beach is conveniently located within walking distance of Newquay town centre, making it easily accessible on foot. From the town centre, head towards Cliff Road, which runs parallel to the coastline. Follow the signs pointing towards the beach, and you'll find a staircase leading down to the sands. The descent offers stunning views of the coastline, and the well-maintained steps provide a safe and straightforward route. Walking to Tolcarne Beach is a pleasant option for those staying in nearby accommodations or exploring the local shops and cafes.

Driving to Tolcarne Beach is straightforward, with several parking options available nearby. From the A392, follow signs for Newquay town centre, then look for signage directing you to the beach. There is a large car park located at the top of the cliffs, providing convenient access to the beach via a set of stairs. During peak seasons, parking can fill up quickly, so it's advisable to arrive early. Once parked, the descent to the beach offers beautiful views, and there are plenty of spaces to secure bicycles if you prefer to combine driving with a bit of cycling.

Newquay is well-served by local bus routes, making Tolcarne Beach easily reachable by public transport. Buses frequently run from surrounding towns and villages to Newquay's main bus station, located in the town centre. From the bus station, it’s a short walk to Tolcarne Beach, following signs along Cliff Road. For those coming from further afield, regional and national coach services also stop in Newquay, providing convenient access to the beach. The bus is an excellent option for those looking to avoid the hassle of parking and enjoy a scenic route through Cornwall.

Tolcarne Beach General Information

Beach Type: Sandy

Dog Friendly: Seasonal dog ban - 1st May – 30th September

Public Toilets:Tolcarne Beach toilets are situated near the back of the beach, with additional facilities available closer to the town centre. These toilets are closed at dusk.

Accessibility: Contact Cornwall Council

Lifeguard Cover: Daily from 13 May to 24 September Patrol times: 10am – 6pm

Tolcarne Beach FAQs

Are dogs allowed on Tolcarne Beach?2024-05-15T17:00:52+01:00

Dogs are allowed on Tolcarne Beach outside of the peak summer months. During the summer season (usually from May to September), there are restrictions in place. It’s recommended to check the local guidelines for specific dates and rules.

Are there lifeguards on duty at Tolcarne Beach?2024-05-15T16:59:52+01:00

Yes, lifeguards are on duty at Tolcarne Beach during the main season, usually from May to September. It’s always best to check the specific dates and hours for lifeguard coverage.

Can I rent surfboards and other equipment at Tolcarne Beach?2024-05-15T17:00:22+01:00

Yes, there are several rental shops at Tolcarne Beach where you can rent surfboards, wetsuits, and other beach equipment. Surf lessons are also available for those looking to learn or improve their skills.

Can I swim at Tolcarne Beach?2024-05-15T17:02:13+01:00

Yes, swimming is popular at Tolcarne Beach. The waters are generally safe, but it’s important to swim within the designated areas and heed any warnings or advice from lifeguards, especially regarding tide changes and currents.

Is there parking available near Tolcarne Beach?2024-05-15T16:59:22+01:00

Yes, there is parking available near Tolcarne Beach. Visitors can use the dedicated car parks nearby, but it’s advisable to arrive early during peak times as spaces can fill up quickly.

Is Tolcarne Beach accessible for people with disabilities?2024-05-15T17:01:22+01:00

Yes, Tolcarne Beach has made efforts to be accessible to people with disabilities. There is a sloped path leading down to the beach, and accessible facilities are available. However, due to the natural terrain, some areas may be challenging to navigate.

What amenities are available at Tolcarne Beach?2024-05-15T17:01:48+01:00

Tolcarne Beach offers a variety of amenities including beachside cafes, surf schools, rental shops, restrooms, and showers. There are also sun loungers and beach huts available for hire.

Weather At Tolcarne

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

Tide Times At Tolcarne

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

04 August 2025

Time Type Height
01:14 high 4.81m
07:57 low 2.98m
14:06 high 4.87m
20:40 low 2.91m

05 August 2025

Time Type Height
02:41 high 4.88m
09:17 low 2.77m
15:20 high 5.18m
21:50 low 2.56m

View full 7 day tide times.

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