As a local Newquay resident, I can confidently say that Pentire Headland is a must-visit for anyone exploring this vibrant Cornish town. This dramatic headland offers more than just stunning scenery; it’s a hub for coastal walks, wildlife spotting, and a photographer’s paradise!

Unparalleled Coastal Vistas

Pentire Headland, located just a short distance from Newquay town centre, juts out into the Atlantic Ocean, offering panoramic views along the coastline of Newquay and beyond.

Look north and you’ll spot the iconic Trevose Head lighthouse on a clear day, a landmark guiding ships for centuries.

Gazing south, you’ll see the rolling green hills of Crantock and Polly Joke and many dramatic cliffs that define the Cornish landscape.

One of the best things about this headland is you can stand at the end, look back and see both Crantock and Newquay Bay at once! It’s really beautiful, especially as the sun is setting or rising.

A Walker’s Paradise

The South West Coast Path, a national trail known for its beauty, snakes along the headland, making it a perfect spot for walking and hiking enthusiasts.

This well-maintained path offers various walking options, from a gentle stroll directly along the middle of the headland, to a narrower path that weaves around the edge for closer wave watching and rock exploring!  

For a more challenging walk, it’s possible to climb down to Crantock Beach at low tide.  We usually climb down near the red lifesaving ring and often enjoy what feels like a private beach here, until the sea comes back in and we climb back up to the headland!

We also love climbing the rocks at the end of the headland to the left-hand side for endless views of waves and the ocean.  It’s so peaceful here.  Just be careful.

Watch out if you’re taking the paths closest to the edge when walking Pentire Headland, as it can be very windy on this headland, particularly at the end of the headland and the side of Newquay Bay.

Wildlife Encounters

Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls Pentire Headland home. Grey seals and dolphins are often spotted in Newquay Bay.

Birdwatchers will be delighted with the variety of seabirds nesting on the cliffs and reviewers have reported seeing skylarks, kestrels and stonechat. Short-eared owls have been spotted flying overhead at first light.

Climbing down towards Crantock, you can explore hidden coves accessible during low tide and discover a world of rock pools teeming with marine life.

Pentire Headland is a nature lover’s paradise! Not only will you find wildlife, but many beautiful wildflowers and flora throughout the seasons. Beautiful patches of delicate Queen Anne’s Lace and vibrant Purple Heather dominate the headland in summer.

Watch out for the large burrows as you explore the meandering paths amongst the wildflowers of Pentire Headland – from rabbits perhaps?

Planning Your Visit to Pentire Headland

Pentire Headland is easily accessible by car and has ample parking facilities. There’s a car park at the start of the headland with pay-and-display or mobile-app parking.  If you are staying in Newquay then it is easily accessible from most areas by foot, especially for those who love hiking and walking.  

If you’re visiting from Crantock, then you can climb up the rocks approximately halfway down to access Pentire Headland, or you can cross the small footbridge at the bottom of the Fern Pit cafe and climb the steps to the road which ends at the headland. There’s a National Trust car park in Crantock.

For refreshments, there is a hut-style cafe, The Kraken, which serves refreshments at the start of the car park, however, it is only open seasonally. 

The Fern Pit cafe is also popular and a very short distance from the headland, with stunning views across Crantock beach and up the River Gannel estuary. 

On the headland itself, you’ll discover the Lewinnick Lodge with incredible ocean views from its large panoramic windows in the cafe and bar.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, there’s a 9-hole golf course with amazing views, just before the headland – grab your clubs from The Kraken cafe.

As for toilets, There are paid toilets, but if you do climb down to Crantock and can cross the river and sea at low tide, there are free National Trust toilets in the Crantock Beach National Trust car park.

Local Tips:

• Pack comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Grippy shoes are best if you plan to climb down the rocks to Crantock, we find aqua shoes the best. The climb down is suitable for those with good mobility and a sense of adventure only!
• Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife spotting.
• Check the tide times before climbing down to Crantock and exploring the coves and rock pools.  Mid to low tide is best. The waves will be crashing up the rocks at high tide!
• Respect the local environment and leave no trace behind.
• Time your visit for a sunset and see the most amazing colours and skies from the end of the headland.
• Pop into the Lewinnick Lodge for a bite to eat or a drink to admire the ocean views towards Towan Headland and across Fistral Beach.

Great To Visit In All Seasons

Not only is the headland stunning in summer wth the wildflower displays and warm evening sunsets, but perfect for wave watching in winter when the ocean batters the surrounding rocks with power, as well as beautiful under a rainbow when the sun makes an appearance after a storm.

Pentire Headland: More Than Just a Viewpoint

Pentire Headland is a true gem of Newquay, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a nature enthusiast, a sunset chaser, or simply seeking a scenic escape, Pentire Headland in Newquay has something for everyone. So lace up your walking shoes, pack your sense of adventure, and discover the magic of this captivating headland.

(Please note, this is not the same location as the National Trust Pentire Headland (aka Pentire Point) which is also often called Pentire Headland!)

More Things To Do Near Pentire Headland

• Things To Do in Newquay
• Beaches in Newquay
• Best places to SUP in and around Newquay Cornwall
• Little Fistral Beach: Escape the Crowds in Newquay (Photos & Local Tips)