Porth Beach, near Newquay

Heading out of the town of Newquay, Porth Beach has a wonderful expanse of golden sand. A narrow beach, it’s a popular choice for families with the headlands on each side keeping Porth Beach sheltered from the wind. Because of its narrowness, surfing is not permitted during the peak summer months but bodyboarding and paddleboarding is allowed. Here’s everything you need to know…

PORTH WEATHER

Beach Overview

On Newquay’s north side between Lusty Glaze and Whipsiderry, Porth is a long, gently shelving ribbon of pale sand with a stream crossing the middle and the rugged headland of Porth Island (Trevelgue Head) guarding the northern end. At low tide there’s masses of firm sand for games and sand‑castle kingdoms; at high tide the beach narrows to a soft, sheltered crescent. A wooden footbridge hops you onto Porth Island for blowhole views and big Atlantic panoramas, while the bay itself stays calmer than Newquay’s surf powerhouses — ideal for families.

Lifeguards & Safety

RNLI lifeguards patrol here in season. Porth is more sheltered than neighbouring breaks but rip currents can develop near the rocks and around the stream mouth, and the shore can shelve at higher tides.

Porth Beach Lifeguard patrol dates 2025

Patrol times: 10am – 6pm

• 17 May – 28 September (Daily)

Surf & Watersports

Porth is designated as a family‑swimming beach, and surfing is not permitted during the summer season when RNLI lifeguards are on duty. Please follow on‑site signage and lifeguard instructions. If you’re looking to surf, head to nearby Fistral or Watergate Bay, which are set up for surf craft and lessons.

That said, Porth is lovely for swimming, paddle‑boarding and kayaking on calmer days. Launch well away from the flagged swim zone and keep clear of rock ledges at either end of the bay; give other water users plenty of room.

Tide tips: Mid to low tide brings the widest sand and the easiest launching; by high tide the beach narrows and small dumpers can form — better for paddling than wave‑hopping. Cross the stream with care on a rising tide.

Dog Rules

Porth operates seasonal dog restrictions from 1 July to 31 August, 10am-6pm. Outside those hours and dates dogs are welcome; when allowed, please keep them under close control around families and wildlife, and tidy up to keep this popular beach pristine.

Facilities & Accessibility

Everything is close to hand. There’s paid-for parking right by the sand and in the village, public toilets by the beach (seasonal showers for sandy toes), and a choice of cafés, kiosks and a pub within flip‑flop distance. Access is mostly level via ramps and paths, making it one of Newquay’s easier beaches for buggies and many wheelchairs, though soft sand can be challenging near high tide.

Coast Path & Nearby Walks

Hop over the footbridge to Porth Island for an easy loop with blowhole views, then follow the South West Coast Path north to Whipsiderry and Watergate Bay for cliff‑top drama. Southbound, walk over the cliffs at Lusty Glaze and onward into Newquay for harbour views, galleries and ice‑cream stops.

Places to Eat Nearby

Right by the beach, Porth Beach Café and The Mermaid Inn keep things simple with coffees, pastries and seaside classics. A short wander brings more cafés and takeaways, while central Newquay adds everything from bakeries to seafood restaurants for sunset suppers after a day on the sand.

Rainy‑Day Options

If showers roll in, swap the beach for the Blue Reef Aquarium on Towan or head to Newquay Zoo for a mix of indoor exhibits and sheltered trails. Between showers, the headland viewpoints on Porth Island serve up moody seascapes without committing to a full beach session.