Craving a Cornish beach escape but want to avoid the tourist throngs? Look no further than Little Fistral, a hidden gem nestled alongside its bigger brother, Fistral Beach, in Newquay.

While Fistral attracts surfers and sunbathers in droves, Little Fistral offers a haven of tranquillity, perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers seeking a more peaceful slice of paradise.

Read on for lots of photos of this piece of Newquay, the facilities on offer and why, as locals, we love Little Fistral Beach!

Little Fistral Beach: Golden Sands & Hidden Charm

Why Little Fistral Beach? Little Fistral Beach boasts all the beauty of its more famous neighbour but with a fraction of the crowds.

Here, you can unwind on soft golden sands, listen to the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore, and bask in the glorious sunshine without the hustle and bustle of larger beaches. As facilities are limited here and due to its smaller size, it doesn’t attract as many people, making it a perfect choice for those who want somewhere less hectic!

The beach is smaller and less exposed than Fistral, creating a cosy atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Families can usually build sandcastles without battling for space, while couples can enjoy romantic walks hand-in-hand along the water’s edge and across Towan Headland to admire the beautiful views, wave watch, and perhaps even catch a sunset.

Out of season, there’s barely a soul on the beach and we often get to enjoy it to ourselves. In the tourist season, we’ve often visited and had plenty of space to ourselves whether on the sand, rocks or up on the overlooking headland. Visting in the morning, before the majority of tourists awake, is my recommended time to visit!

Whether you’re a sunseeker looking to catch some rays or a nature enthusiast eager to explore the coastline, Little Fistral Beach offers the perfect retreat.

Experienced local surfers are regularly in the waters at Little Fistral, but often only a few. Much fewer than you’ll see at Fistral due to its rocky nature. At high tide the sea bed is covered in the rocks that you see in some of the photos here so it’s not recommended to surf here unless you know the area and are competent. It’s not for inexperienced surfers and can be challenging.

Nearby Fistral Beach provides a safer haven for surfers with its sandy shoreline and lifeguard cover in the summer months.

Beyond the Beach at Little Fistral

While the beach itself is the star attraction, Little Fistral’s charm extends beyond the sand. Explore the rockpools teeming with marine life, perfect for curious kids and adults alike. At low tide you can explore many of the rocks to the right, looking at the sea.

There are lots of rocks that can be climbed, why not pop on your grippy water shoes and climb up onto Towan Headland? Just be cautious of any crumbling or falling cliffs.

Pop on your swimmers and have a spot of wild swimming in the refreshing Atlantic ocean. Just be mindful at higher tides for the rocks underfoot. I recommend wearing water shoes as they can get very slippy. I’ve bruised a shin on more than one occasion when swimming at Little Fistral and being caught out by a slippy rock when returning to beach after a refreshing dip.

Be warned: There is no lifeguard cover at Little Fistral, so you may feel safer swimming at one of the nearby lifeguarded beaches (seasonal lifeguard cover only) at Towan, Tolcarne or Fistral.

For adrenaline junkies, the world-renowned Fistral Beach is just a stone’s throw away, offering some of the best surfing conditions in the UK.

Hike along the South West Coast Path past Fistral and across Pentire Headland, or along Towan Headland, where Little Fistral is perfectly positioned, for stunning coastal views and panoramic scenes from the lookout tower. The South West Coast Path provides endless opportunities for coastal walks, with breathtaking views around every corner.

Keep an eye out for seals in the Cornish waters around Newquay Bay, just behind Little Fistral.

Or, simply take a short stroll and relax at one of the beachside cafes, enjoying delicious food and refreshing drinks with a breathtaking ocean backdrop. Try the luxurious and iconic Headland Hotel which overlooks both Little Fistral and Fistral. Or perhaps the more chilled out vibe in the Stable at Fistral which has far reaching views, lots of ciders and some of the best pizzas for vegans in Newquay.

Within walking distance, you’ll find Newquay’s vibrant town centre, home to charming cafes, surf shops, and art galleries.

Insider Tips for the Perfect Visit to Little Fistral

To make the most of your visit to Little Fistral Beach, consider these locals tips:

• Know the tides: Little Fistral’s beach size changes dramatically with the tide. Check tide tables beforehand to ensure maximum sand enjoyment as the entire beach can disappear at high tide. Explore the rocky outcrops at low tide to discover fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life.
• Parking: Parking can be limited during peak season. Arrive early or consider walking from Newquay town centre or Pentire. Parking is chargeable all along the road to Towan Headland and next to Fistral. There are some disabled parking spaces right next to the beach.
• Access: The beach can be accessed by metal steps or by climbing down the rocks. It’s not suitable for those with severely limited mobility or in a wheelchair, however, the views can still be admired from the car park. We’ve often enjoyed wave-watching in this car park with some chippy chips!

• Facilities: Public toilets and changing facilities are available near the beach. Sometimes these are free, as they were on my most recent visit the day I wrote this in February 2024, but they have been chargeable before so it’s likely they may charge again in the high season.
• Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and coasteering are popular options for adventurous souls in this area depending on weather and sea conditions. Many local companies offer lessons and experiences in this area. Surf lessons and equipment rentals are readily available from nearby Fistral Beach.
• Timings: Arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. It’s also a chance to witness stunning sunrises or sunsets.

• Bring your binoculars: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including many seabirds such as cormorants, as well as dolphins and seals which are often spotted along the coastline here.
• Swimming and a few cautions: Little Fistral is generally good for swimming, but beware of higher tides as the seabed becomes very rocky and slippery. Grippy water shoes are highly recommended for safe splashing. There is never a lifeguard on Little Fistral so be cautious.
• Off-season bliss: Outside peak tourist months, you can practically have the beach to yourself for an unforgettable secluded experience.
• Dogs: There are no restrictions for dogs on Little Fistral. Please be mindful when it’s busy and keep your dog on a lead, especially when children are present. Did you know 1 in 20 people have cynophobia (an irrational fear of dogs), usually affecting more children than adults?

Seeking a quieter corner of Newquay, away from the bustling crowds of Fistral Beach?

Little Fistral offers the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility. You’re close enough to walk into Newquay town centre for shops, restaurants, and lively bars, but far enough to feel miles away from the hustle and bustle. Although amenities are minimal at Little Fistral itself, the Headland Hotel, Oceanside or Fistral Beach food court with its delectable offerings is just a short stroll away.

This beach’s charm extends beyond the sand. Hike along the Towan Headland, a nature lover’s dream, for panoramic coastal views and hidden coves. Witness the mesmerising Cribbar wave, a surfer’s haven, where skilled wave riders showcase their talents (remember, it’s for pros only due to its challenging location). Enjoy rockpool exploration where fascinating marine life awaits, or simply relax on the grassy verges while watching the ocean dance before you.

Little Fistral Beach is a true hidden gem, offering a slice of paradise away from the crowds of Newquay’s larger and more popular beaches. With its unspoiled beauty and proximity to local attractions, it’s the perfect destination for a peaceful seaside retreat. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a moment of tranquillity by the sea, Little Fistral Beach has it all.

Ready to escape the crowds and discover your own little piece of Cornish paradise? Pack your bags, grab this guide, and head to Little Fistral Beach!

P.S. Don’t forget to share your Little Fistral experiences in the comments below!