Porth Beach, located in the picturesque town of Newquay, is a popular Cornish coastal destination for locals and tourists alike. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Porth Beach, from activities and facilities to lots of photos so you can decide if it’s the right beach for your next visit to the area.

Why Porth Beach Must Be Popular (But I’m Not So Keen)

Out of the 11 beaches in Newquay, Porth is probably my least favourite, at least for an actual beach day.  There’s nothing that wrong with it, but one of them has to come last on my favourite beaches in Newquay list 😂

I do, however, like walking along Trevelgue Headland to the right side of the beach and across to Porth Island, as well as crossing the beach on my hikes to get to Whipsiderry, Watergate Bay and the coastal paths, but I’m not so keen on this beach for a day out staying on the beach, or for swimming.

I think it’s possibly because it is directly next to the road rather than a picturesque backdrop like other beaches nearby such as Watergate or Lusty Glaze. 

Also, it’s a long cove and the sea goes so far out, that it would be impossible to watch our kids in the sea while sitting on the sandy dry part of the beach at low tide.

Plus I don’t think the beach looks so good at high tide when the sea is SO far out. I prefer this beach at high tide for sure, it looks a MILLION TIMES better and so much more beautiful!

But, mainly, I think it may be due to the water and overflow of sewage issues the beach has had in recent years that have stuck in my mind!

To check the latest water quality you can check out these websites:

• https://www.southwestwater.co.uk/porth
• https://environment.data.gov.uk/bwq/profiles/profile.html?bw=ukk3102-31650&site=ukk3106-32340

I also use the app Surfers Against Sewage to check the local water quality before swimming or doing any watersports to make sure there are no sewage overspills reported or bad water tests. Here’s what the app looks like, you’d see a big red cross if the water is potentially unsafe:

However, many tourists flock to Porth beach each year and many locals love it too.  Many of our friends LOVE Porth Beach, so it’s just a matter of opinion and what sort of beach you like.  

It scores highly on Google reviews with 4.7 out of 5 stars with nearly 300 reviews at the time of writing, so it could be your favourite beach in the area!

So maybe I’ll come around to the qualities of Porth and get over the water thing. And maybe the rest of my blog post will even convince me!

So why is Porth Beach so popular?

• Porth Beach is renowned for its wide expanse of sand, which stretches for miles at low tide. Many reviewers report loving the large space this creates.
• The beach is situated in a sheltered bay, making it an ideal spot for swimming and paddling (just check the water quality using the resources above to make sure it’s safe).

• The often calm waters mean it’s not good for surfers, but it is good for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding when the tide is in.
• When it’s high tide (and I think the beach looks much better when it is) then the water is shallow and usually calm at the shoreline making it ideal for families with young children.

• The surrounding natural beauty, proximity to Newquay town while also being away from the hustle and bustle, and facilities on the beach are also what must make this such a popular spot!  
• Unlike the lively energy of Fistral Beach, Porth Beach boasts a calmer vibe, perfect for families, couples, or those seeking a quieter seaside experience. 
• Oh, and the shallow river is probably a draw with people with young children so they can splash in the river rather than the sea when it’s so far out.  Again, check the water quality before you go!  

Anyway, it may be one of your favourite beaches in the area too, so let’s explore what there is to do at Porth Beach in Newquay.

Things to Do at Porth Beach in Newquay

While Porth Beach may not be the place for adrenaline-pumping water sports, it offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy:

Swimming and Sunbathing

Many people enjoy the calm, shallow waters of Porth Beach for swimming, especially for families. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak summer months, ensuring a safe environment for everyone. Sunbathing on the soft sands, with the stunning views of cliffs and the headland alongside the ocean, is a relaxing way to spend the day.

Exploring Rock Pools

At low tide, the beach reveals many rock pools to the right side of the beach which, if you’re lucky, will be teeming with marine life. Children and adults alike enjoy exploring these natural wonders, searching for crabs, fish, and other sea creatures. 

Coastal Walks

For those who love a good walk, the South West Coast Path runs along Porth Beach. You can enjoy scenic coastal walks with breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean. One popular route is the walk to Watergate Bay, offering a mix of coastal and rural scenery. 

Walking along the headland and looking across to Newquay town in one direction or to the picturesque Whipsiderry Beach and Watergate Bay with their phenomenal cliffs at Zacry’s Island in the other direction is amazing and my favourite thing to do in Porth.  You can catch an amazing sunset and sky when the conditions are right from this headland too.

Watersports

While Porth Beach is known for its calm waters, nearby beaches like Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay are famous for their surf. Porth Beach itself is often suitable for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in Newquay, providing a variety of watersport options within close reach.  Surfing is banned at Porth during the high summer season.

Relaxation

Sometimes, the best thing to do at the beach is simply nothing at all. Relax on the soft sand, soak up the sun, listen to the sound of the waves, and let your worries melt away.

Facilities at Porth Beach

Porth Beach offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable visit. There are free public toilets which have been well-maintained every time I’ve used them.

The beach is also patrolled by lifeguards during the summer, adding an extra layer of safety.

While there used to be parking directly on Porth Beach, this car parking option is now closed.  Many cars were getting stuck in the sand or even blocking access to the lifeguards and emergency services which was a risk.

There is another pay-and-display car park opposite the beach run by Armtrac Security Services which can be located at:

Porth Beach Holiday Park
Alexandra Road
Newquay
TR7 3NH

Or you will find nearby residential free on-street parking if you don’t mind a short stroll to the beach and are mindful of residents and their properties.

Food and Drink

Several cafes and kiosks are located on or near the beach, offering a variety of refreshments. Whether you’re in the mood for ice cream, chips, or a refreshing drink, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

There’s the Mermaid pub on the beach with outdoor seating (we haven’t been so I’m not sure how good it is). 

I have been to Roos across the road at the back of the beach and have regularly had a good takeaway coffee from friendly staff. There’s an amazing clothing shop and houseplant shop there too which I’d recommend visiting! 

There’s also a hole-in-the-wall style kiosk on the beach that is open in summer serving ice creams and cold drinks. 

To the left of the beach you’ll find a tea room past the public toilets, and up to the right of the toilets is another cafe.  So, there are plenty of options!

Is Porth Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Porth Beach, but there are seasonal restrictions. From 1st July to 31st August, dogs are not permitted between 10am and 6pm. Outside these hours, and during the off-season, dogs are welcome.

You can find the most up-to-date information on beach dog bans in Cornwall on the official council website at https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/environment/animal-welfare-and-enforcement/dogs-on-beaches/ 

What is the best time to visit Porth Beach?

The best time to visit Porth Beach is during the late spring and summer months when the weather is warm, and the sea is inviting. However, the beach’s beauty can be appreciated year-round, and it’s less crowded during the off-peak seasons.

My favourite time would be before the summer holidays in May, June and July on weekdays when it’s less busy. As well as on an early morning hike or run before the tourists are up and about in the summer holidays (I often get out between 5am and 8am in the summer when it’s lovely and quiet everywhere!).

Or even in the winter months on a crisp day with some wind;  watching the smashing winter waves while wrapped up warm with a flask of hot drink is a lovely winter activity to do on the headland at Porth.

Are there any events held at Porth Beach?

Porth Beach occasionally hosts events such as beach clean-ups and family-friendly activities. The Mermaid pub which is practically on the beach hosts events. Check local listings or the Newquay tourist information for upcoming events during your visit.