Discover the charm of Newquay’s coastlines.
Imagine gliding past dramatic cliffs and playful marine life.
The best places to paddleboard in Newquay, UK, are calling your name.
So grab your board and let’s uncover the beauty of these Cornish shores together. Are you up for the adventure?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Newquay
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Fistral Beach
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Fistral Beach Car Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, Atlantic Ocean swells, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seals, dolphins, marine birds
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Towan Headland, Newquay town center
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Practice caution in larger swells, follow local water safety guidelines
Fistral Beach is one of the most famous surfing spots in the UK, and its consistent waves make it an excellent location for paddleboarding too. Its picturesque coastline and easy access from Newquay town center add to its popularity.
Remember to check tide times and wind conditions, to ensure a safe and enjoyable paddleboarding experience.
#2 Crantock Beach
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Crantock Beach Car Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, can become choppy with changing tides
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seals, seabirds
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Crantock village, sand dunes, Gannel Estuary
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Keep an eye on tide times, be cautious of rip currents
Crantock Beach, just across the River Gannel from Newquay, is an idyllic spot for paddleboarding. The calm waters of the Gannel Estuary provide tranquil cruising, while the ocean side offers some small wave action for adventurous paddlers.
Soak in the stunning views and explore the estuary’s natural beauty on your paddleboard.
#3 Watergate Bay
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Watergate Bay Car Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, Atlantic Ocean swells, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seals, dolphins, marine birds
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Cliffs, Atlantic coastline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in larger swells, follow local water safety guidelines
Watergate Bay is a popular surf and paddleboarding spot, known for its picturesque cliffs and wide sandy beach. The vast expanse of shoreline allows for plenty of space, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Be mindful of tide times and wind conditions for the safest and most enjoyable paddleboarding adventure.
#4 The Camel Estuary
- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Daymer Bay Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm estuary waters, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Padstow Harbor, Rock Beach
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Check tide times, respect marine wildlife
Though not directly in Newquay, just a short drive away lies the beautiful Camel Estuary. Paddleboarding in the sheltered waters of Daymer Bay offers stunning views of Rock Beach and the Padstow Harbor.
Make sure to time your paddle with the tides, as the estuary empties out significantly during low tide.
#5 Great Western Beach
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Great Western Beach Car Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle waves, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Newquay town center, Towan Headland
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Keep an eye on tide times, respect other water users
Great Western Beach is a central Newquay location, offering a smaller beach with gentle waves perfect for paddleboarding. Nestled between cliffs and close to the town center, it provides an easily accessible, sheltered spot for all skill levels.
As with all beach spots, be sure to check the tide times to avoid getting caught in changing conditions.
#6 Porth Joke (Polly Joke) Beach
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Porth Joke Beach Car Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Secluded beach, surrounded by National Trust headlands
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Check tide times, respect the unspoiled nature of the beach
Porth Joke, also known as Polly Joke, is a hidden gem just west of Newquay. This secluded beach offers a peaceful and picturesque paddling experience, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding headlands.
As always, be mindful of tidal changes and the potential for sudden wind gusts, influencing your paddleboarding adventure.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Newquay?
You can paddle board at popular spots in Newquay such as Fistral Beach, Watergate Bay, and the Gannel Estuary.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Newquay?
No, you do not need to register your paddle board in Newquay.
When is the best time to paddle board in Newquay?
The best time to paddle board in Newquay is during the summer months when the water temperatures are warmer.
