For over half a century the town of Newquay in Cornwall has reigned as the undisputed champion of surfing locations in the UK. The powerful waves which crash against the Cornish coastline provide wonderful surfing conditions for both seasoned and inexperienced surfers alike. With a number of great surfing beaches to choose from and a myriad of great bars and restaurants to visit after your time riding the waves, it is no wonder that Newquay continues to attract thousands of eager water sports enthusiasts each year.
The best beaches
The famous Fistral Beach. Source: http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/875170
It should come as no surprise really, considering the area’s long-standing reputation as a great surfing destination, that many champion surfers have originated from Newquay. A large proportion of these champions honed their skills surfing the waves which crash onto Fistral Beach. Arguably the most famous surfing beach in the area, Fistral is home to many international surfing competitions. Although the majority of surfers who come to Fistral are experienced, the beach is still suitable for beginners too. Most people who are new to surfing tend to stick to the middle of the bay as the waves to the north tend to prove a little too tricky to negotiate. The expanse of sand at Fistral is wide, ensuring there is nearly always plenty of room for everyone here, although competition times can be a little crowded.
If you are a newcomer to the world of surfing, the beaches at Watergate Bay and Great Western are ideally suited to novices. Even if you are a highly experienced surfer, it is always advisable to only surf at locations which are life-guard patrolled. Lusty Glaze, on the outskirts of Newquay, is home to the National Beach Lifeguard Training Centre, so you can be assured of being safe here!
The right kit
To get the most out of your surfing experience in Newquay, it’s important to get the right equipment and clothing for the conditions. When it comes to quality board shorts, Fellow boardies are a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike, as they provide comfort in the water and style about town. Grab your board, Sex Wax and sun cream and you’re good to go. (Make sure you chuck a fishtail and longboard in the wagon as well, just in case there’s only a little swell.) You can always check out Magic Seaweed to get a full surf report before hitting the coast.
Where to eat and drink
Away from the beaches, after you have put all of your surfing skills and enthusiasm to good use, Newquay has plenty of places in which to relax and get your fill of food and drink. From traditional pub grub to fast-food chains and restaurants serving international cuisine, there is certainly no shortage of choice. The Maharajah is unique among Indian restaurants in the UK in that it is the only one set atop a cliff with dazzling sea views. There is an excellent choice of pubs in Newquay including The Beached, The Jam Jar Café and a fine selection of venues which are suitable for the whole family. With Mexican and Italian cuisine also on the menu, you are sure to find something to suit all tastes in Newquay.
Best time to go
One of the best times of the year to go surfing in Newquay is actually during the autumn between late September and early November. The beaches are less crowded at this time of the year and the relatively mild temperature of both water and air combine to produce some excellent surfing conditions.
If you want to be close to the action then come and stay at Fistral Blue overlooking the beach.
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