Tipi holidays near Newquay guide
Where to go
West Cornwall
South of Newquay, the coastal road to St Ives provides a dramatic backdrop for a road trip. Stop along the way to surf or horseback ride at Perranporth beach, spot dolphins along the St Agnes Heritage Coast, or visit the blue flag beaches around St Ives. Another highlight is a visit to Land’s End, the westernmost point of mainland Britain.
Northeast Coast
Sea-cliff walks await along Watergate Bay, Trevose Head, and Pentire Point, all worthwhile destinations along Cornwall’s north shore. Campsites and caravan parks dot the coast between Port Isaac and Tintagel, and there’s plenty to explore in the area. Follow in the footsteps of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle; admire the views from the High Cliff, Cornwall’s highest point; or continue north to catch some waves in Bude.
Cornish Riviera
The shores of the "Cornish Riviera"—the south coast between Falmouth and Fowey—are a natural playground of forested headlands and sandy beaches. Stop by Carlyon Bay, Par Sands, or Porthpean Beach to swim and take part in water sports, then head inland to visit the Eden Project or enjoy a beer tasting at the St Austell Brewery. For camping, choose between family-friendly caravan parks or quiet farm campsites away from the crowds.
When to go
Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most popular destinations, and it has the crowds to match. Advance bookings are essential in July and August, for everything from campsites to restaurants. Lifeguard patrols run from Easter through early October, and this is the best time to hit Newquay’s beaches. Winters can be wet and windy along the coast, but there are some benefits to an off-season visit, including free parking around town and the best surf.
Know before you go
- Newquay has a few camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
- Newquay has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
- Most campsites require advance booking, and many ask for the full payment in advance. Be sure to check opening dates, as many campsites close in the winter months.
- Wild camping is illegal throughout Cornwall.
- While the beaches are undoubtedly the main attraction, there’s more to Newquay holidays than sunbathing on the sands. Attractions include an aquarium and adventure parks, and the town makes a great base from which to head out with St Ives and Land’s End to the south or Port Isaac and Padstow to the north.