Towan Headland - Image 1
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Towan Headland

4.8
·283 reviews·, United Kingdom

Dramatic headland in Newquay offering stunning coastal views, surf vibes, and spectacular sunsets. Explore rock pools at low tide!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide

Reveals rock pools & more beach

CrowdMedium
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Towan Headland - Image 1

Towan Headland

Best Time

Low tide

Reveals rock pools & more beach

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dramatic headland in Newquay offering stunning coastal views, surf vibes, and spectacular sunsets. Explore rock pools at low tide!

4.8
(283 reviews)

"A truly fantastic lookout, where you can spend some time appreciating the stunning views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

Towan Beach is significantly affected by tides; check before you go to enjoy the sand .

Cocktails with a View :cocktail:

Don't miss The Coconut Shy for drinks while watching surfers and sunsets .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towan Beach & Harbour

Towan Beach & Harbour

Newquay Town Centre

The main town beach, bustling with activity and directly linked to shops and restaurants. Busy in summer, serene in winter .

TikTok
The Coconut Shy Cocktail Shack

The Coconut Shy Cocktail Shack

Towan Beach

A charming seaside spot for cocktails with stunning views of surfers and sunsets .

TikTok
Towan Headland Views

Towan Headland Views

Towan Headland

Offers golden sands, crystal waters, and epic surf vibes, perfect for chilling or sunset watching .

TikTokInstagram
Hidden Rock Pools

Hidden Rock Pools

Towan Headland (at low tide)

Discover serene rock pools accessible only at low tide, ideal for exploration and cold water therapy .

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Tide Times are Crucial

Towan Beach's sand disappears at high tide, so always check tide times before visiting to maximize your beach time. Low tide reveals rock pools perfect for exploring.TikTok+1

Parking Can Be Tricky

While parking is available near Towan Headland, some visitors note issues with people obscuring license plates to avoid ANPR charges. Plan accordingly or consider walking from town.Reddit

Best Times

When
Low tide
Why
Reveals rock pools & more beach
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Unforgettable golden hour views
Crowd
High
When
Winter (off-season)
Why
Peaceful, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏝️ Towan beach / Newquay harbour 🐟 full review This is the main beach in Newquay as it’s directly linked to the main part of the town where all the shops, restaurants & bars are Because of this it’s crazy busy in the summer but as you can see we were the only people there in January When the tide comes in it hardly leaves any beach so I’d check that before you go The beach is lifeguarded from ...
@peth.store
5.5K likes • 67.8K views

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

Towan Beach is significantly affected by tides; check before you go to enjoy the sand.TikTok

Cocktails with a View :cocktail:

Don't miss The Coconut Shy for drinks while watching surfers and sunsets.TikTok

Explore the cutest seaside cocktail shack in Cornwall 🍹 This is the Coconut shy on Towan Beach in Newquay 🏄‍♂️ Perfect spot for watching surfers, the sunset and take in the sunshine ☀️ Save this stop to your next Cornwall trip! ✨ #traveltips #traveltok #cornwall #thingstodo #PlacesToVisit #cocktail #fyp #staycation #mustvisit
@postcardsfromrach
2.7K likes • 71.1K views
Tried a down winder for the first time this evening. Towan headland into watergate. Here's part of the run. 150vyper linked the bumps pretty comfortably. Definitely going to get more into this and see how far we can go with higher aspect (Yeah we need a better water camera) 📷 @christine.richards.resin ☆foil☆ @unifoil vyper150☆ ☆Board☆ @amosshapes raptor4'2 ☆ #foiltheworld #foilsurf #pronefoiling ...
tomoearl
188 likes • 3.1K views

Explore Rock Pools :shell:

Visit at low tide to discover hidden rock pools on Towan Headland.TikTok

Coastal Walk Potential :hiking_boot:

Towan Headland offers scenic walks with amazing sea views.InstagramReddit

Cornish Excitement. . . Took this short clip today at Fistral Beach , where excited onlookers had descended on Towan Headland to the north of the beach trying to catch a glimpse of the allusive wave by the name “Cribbar”, which only forms a few times a year when conditions are just right. . . #Way_Above_Photography #dronevideo #dji #djidrone #djiglobal #djimavicmini #djiphotography #dronestagram ...
way_above_photography
56 likes • 682 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

Towan Beach is significantly affected by tides; check before you go to enjoy the sand.TikTok

Cocktails with a View :cocktail:

Don't miss The Coconut Shy for drinks while watching surfers and sunsets.TikTok

Explore Rock Pools :shell:

Visit at low tide to discover hidden rock pools on Towan Headland.TikTok

Coastal Walk Potential :hiking_boot:

Towan Headland offers scenic walks with amazing sea views.InstagramReddit

Surf's Up! :surfer:

Newquay is famous for surfing, with Towan Beach being a popular spot.TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(283 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Towan Headland for its stunning natural beauty, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape, especially outside of peak season. The accessibility from Newquay town and the opportunity to witness spectacular sunsets are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some visitors note issues with parking and the beach's disappearance at high tide.

"Beautiful. Wild and windy but so beautiful. It was a shame however that most people thought it was acceptable to cover number plates to avoid ANPR and paying for parking."

Gemma Robinson

"One of the best Peaceful place I ever been. Out side of town centre. Nice long walk. Amazing sea"

naim ahmed

"Lovely views and free of charge"

Andy Wetherell

What People Like

Stunning coastal views
Beautiful sunsets
Peaceful atmosphere (off-season)

What People Dislike

Parking issues
Beach disappears at high tide

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Towan Headland is easily accessible from Newquay town centre. Many visitors walk directly from the town.TikTok If driving, there is parking available nearby, though be mindful of potential ANPR issues.Reddit

Yes, Towan Beach is the main beach in Newquay and is directly linked to the town centre, making it very convenient to access.TikTok

While not a direct walk, you can enjoy a scenic coastal path connecting different parts of Newquay, including areas near Fistral and Towan Headland.Instagram

Walking is highly recommended for exploring the coastline around Towan Headland and Newquay. You can find beautiful coastal paths offering stunning sea views.InstagramReddit

Newquay has bus services that can get you close to the town centre, from where Towan Headland and Towan Beach are a short walk away.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Towan Headland is a natural landmark and offers free access for visitors to enjoy the views and coastal paths.Reddit

Towan Beach is a public beach and is accessible at all times. However, its usability is dependent on the tide.TikTok

No booking is required to visit Towan Headland. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.

Yes, there is parking available very close to Towan Headland, which is convenient for visitors.Reddit

The main restriction is the tide; at high tide, the beach can be completely covered.TikTok Otherwise, it's open to the public.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic walks, photography, watching surfers, exploring rock pools at low tide, and simply relaxing while taking in the stunning coastal views.TikTokInstagram+2

Towan Beach is suitable for swimming, and it's also a popular spot for surfing. Be aware of currents and conditions, especially if you're a beginner.TikTok

As Towan Beach is linked to the town centre, you'll find plenty of amenities nearby, including shops, restaurants, and bars.TikTok There's also a unique cocktail shack, The Coconut Shy.TikTok

Surfing conditions can vary, but generally, mornings and afternoons can offer good waves. Watching surfers is a popular pastime here.TikTok+1

While specific restrictions can change, dogs are generally allowed on Newquay beaches, but often with seasonal restrictions. It's best to check local signage.

📸 📸 Photography

The entire headland offers dramatic coastal scenery. Capture the beach with the town in the background, the unique rock formations, and the surfers.TikTokInstagram

Sunsets are particularly spectacular here, casting a warm glow over the sea and cliffs.TikTokInstagram Golden hour in the morning also provides beautiful light.

Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and airspace restrictions before flying a drone in the area.Instagram

You can capture wide-angle shots of the beach and coastline, close-ups of surfers, and atmospheric images during different tide conditions.TikTok

The rock pools revealed at low tide offer unique macro photography opportunities, and the dramatic coastal landscape is perfect for landscape photography.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Towan Beach is a fantastic choice for families due to its direct link to Newquay town centre, offering easy access to amenities like cafes and shops.TikTok At low tide, the exposed sand provides ample space for children to play, and the rock pools are a source of endless fascination.TikTok While surfing is popular, the calmer areas of the beach can be suitable for paddling. Remember to always supervise children closely, especially near the water.

Consider visiting The Coconut Shy for a fun, relaxed drink with a view.TikTok The gentle slope of the beach can make it easier for little ones to enjoy the water. For a more adventurous outing, exploring the rock pools at low tide can be a memorable experience for the whole family.TikTok

🏄‍♀️ Surfers and Watersports Enthusiasts

Newquay is synonymous with surfing, and Towan Beach is a prime location. The consistent waves make it suitable for various skill levels, and numerous surf schools are available for lessons and board hire.TikTok Beyond surfing, the waters around Towan Headland can be explored by paddleboarders, especially during calmer conditions.Instagram

For those seeking a thrill, the potential for downwind runs from Towan Headland to Watergate Bay offers an exciting challenge.Instagram Always check surf reports and conditions before heading out, and be mindful of other beach users. The vibrant surf culture here means you'll always find fellow enthusiasts to share the stoke with.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Scenery Lovers

Towan Headland is a paradise for walkers, offering stunning coastal paths with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Cornish coastline.Instagram+1 The headland provides a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. You can enjoy leisurely strolls or more invigorating hikes, taking in the fresh sea air and dramatic landscapes.

Combine your walk with a visit to Towan Beach itself, or explore further along the coast. The views are particularly spectacular during sunrise and sunset, making it a rewarding destination for photography enthusiasts as well.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Surfing Culture in Newquay

Newquay is renowned as the 'Surf Capital of the UK,' and Towan Beach is a key part of this vibrant surf scene. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, the waves here offer something for everyone.TikTok Many surf schools operate in the area, providing lessons and equipment hire. Even if you're not surfing, watching the skilled surfers navigate the waves is a captivating experience.TikTok The energy of the surf community is palpable, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in watersports.

For beginners, it's advisable to check conditions and consider lessons, especially during busier periods. The presence of surf shops and cafes catering to surfers further enhances the beach's appeal. The iconic Cribbar wave, which only forms under specific conditions a few times a year, draws significant attention from onlookers,Instagram showcasing the powerful and sometimes elusive nature of the ocean here.

The Magic of Low Tide Exploration

Towan Headland transforms dramatically with the changing tides, offering a unique opportunity for exploration. At low tide, the receding waters reveal fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life.TikTok These natural aquariums are perfect for a gentle stroll and discovery, especially for families or those interested in marine biology. It's a chance to see small fish, crabs, and other fascinating creatures in their temporary habitats.

Remember that access to these rock pools is only possible during low tide, so checking the tide times is essential for planning your visit.TikTok+1 The experience of discovering these hidden gems adds an extra layer of adventure to your visit to Towan Headland. It's also a great spot for cold water therapy enthusiasts looking for a refreshing dip in a more sheltered environment.TikTok

Sunset Spectacles at Towan Headland

Towan Headland is celebrated for its breathtaking sunset views. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky often erupts in a symphony of colours, casting a magical glow over the sea and the iconic Cornish coastline.TikTokInstagram This makes it a prime location for photographers and anyone seeking a moment of natural beauty and tranquility.

The vantage point from the headland allows for unobstructed views, making it a popular spot for couples and individuals to unwind and appreciate the end of the day. The combination of the rugged coastline, the vast ocean, and the vibrant sunset creates a truly unforgettable spectacle. Arrive a little early to secure a good spot and soak in the atmosphere as the day transitions into night.Instagram

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