Not only is Newquay in Cornwall home to ten stunning beaches, but it also boasts three headlands that jut out to the sea offering panoramic views of the coastline, as well as a chance to experience the coastal wildlife, plants and ocean from another dimension. In this blog post, we will explore Towan Headland, at the heart of the Newquay coastline and why it’s worth exploring.

Why Visit Towan Headland in Newquay?

As a keen walker and hiker, I absolutely love nothing more than walking around Newquay and its coastlines soaking in the ocean sights and sounds. One of my favourite walks that I take once or twice a week is to walk along the River Gannel, up the rocks and across Pentire Headland, over Fistral Beach to my final destinations of Little Fistral Beach and Towan Headland, before returning home.

The headlands in Newquay are a great way to feel close to nature and enjoy some mindfulness and quiet time while watching the ocean or wildlife spotting. There are lots of beautiful coastal flowers and plants to admire, particularly in the spring and summer.

Here’s why you should visit Towan Headland when in Newquay:

• Scenic Views: Towan Headland offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets and dramatic seascapes. Towan Headland really does offer some of the best views in Newquay; from the headland, you can see right across Newquay Bay to Watergate Bay and beyond on one side. On the other side, you can see Fistral Beach and Pentire Headland. You can also see the town of Newquay itself.

• Beaches: The headland is surrounded by picturesque sandy beaches, including popular surf spot Fistral Beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Little Fistral Beach is at the start of Towan Headland, mainly accessible at low and mid tides.

• Wildlife Spotting: Nature enthusiasts can observe diverse marine life and seabirds along the coastline, including seals, dolphins, and various seabird species such as cormorants.
• Coastal Walks: Towan Headland is part of the South West Coast Path, offering scenic walking routes with opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the rugged cliffs and hidden coves.

• Historical Landmarks: Visitors can discover historical landmarks such as the iconic Coastguard Lookout Station (the white hut at the end) and it’s only a short walk from Towan Headland to Huer’s Hut.

• Water Sports: Adventure seekers can indulge in various water sports activities, including surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with rental facilities available nearby, or if you have your own and the tide conditions are right, we love to paddleboard and swim off the slipway at the start of the headland. Once we kayaked on our SUP-YAK boards from Towan Headland to Towan Beach to grab a pasty, and then back again! Yum!

• Relaxing: Towan Headland is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Newquay. The headland is a peaceful spot, and the views are sure to help you unwind. On a summer’s day, you can enjoy looking out to Newquay over the sparkling waters. On a winter’s day or rainy day in Newquay, you can enjoy watching the stormy waves. We love parking up and watching the waves from the car with a bag of chippy chips when it’s windy or stormy!

Towan Headland Visitor Information

Towan Headland is easily accessible. There is a payable car park close to the headland, and you can easily walk from there. It’s not far to walk from Newquay Town Centre for those who have mobility and enjoy coastal walks.

There is a small white building (the coastguard lookout hut) at the end of the headland where you can find some shelter from the wind. There are quite a few benches around the headland for you to relax and take in the view.

Public toilets are at the start of the headland. Sometimes these are payable and other times not. They have often been closed due to vandalism, so don’t count on them being open!

There are no cafes or shops here, but it is not far from the shops, restaurants and bars at Fistral if you need refreshments. The iconic Headland Hotel is also nearby with many bars, restaurants and stunning views across the ocean and the headland.

Towan Headland: Things To Do Nearby

If you are looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to visit in Newquay, then Towan Headland is a great option. With its stunning views, great walks, and abundance of wildlife, Towan Headland is sure to please. There are also lots of things to do nearby. Here are a few ideas:

• Visit Newquay Harbour: Located adjacent to Towan Headland, and just a short walk away, past Huer’s Hut, Newquay Harbour is a charming spot for watching fishing boats, enjoying a bite to eat at local Newquay cafes, soaking up some rays on the sands of Harbour Beach at low tide, or embarking on boat trips.
• Walk to Pentire Headland: As you look across Fistral Beach from Towan Headland, you will see Pentire Headland. Another stunning headland with amazing views across Newquay in one direction and Crantock in the other.
• Visit Towan Beach: The next beach along from Newquay Harbour is Towan Beach. This beach has the famous house on an island which is only accessible by a private suspension bridge! You can walk under the bridge and admire the unique location of the island house. At low tide, you can walk from Towan Beach to Great Western Beach, Tolcarne Beach and even to the stunning Lusty Glaze Beach, each with cafes, bars and eateries. At high tide, each beach is its own cove.

Where is Towan Headland in Newquay?

Address: Newquay, TR7 1HS