What can you do in Newquay in winter? While Newquay is widely celebrated as a vibrant summer hotspot, winter offers a more peaceful and enchanting side to this coastal town.
If you’re wondering about things to do in Newquay in winter, the answer is plenty! With fewer crowds, stunning winter scenery, and unique seasonal activities, it’s the perfect destination for a quiet getaway.
Read on to discover the best things to do in Newquay during the colder months.
1. Seal Watching at Polly Joke and Towan Headland
Winter is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts. Head to Polly Joke Beach (Porth Joke) which is the next beach along from Crantock as you head out of Newquay, just a short 10-minute drive or a beautiful coastal path hike, to discover a human-less cove which the seals populate at low tide. Just head along the coastal path to the left of the beach, as you look out to see at Porth Joke, and you’ll spot the signs to be quiet for the seals and be able to look down to see “seal cove”.
Or if you’re lucky, walk towards Towan Headland from Newquay Harbour direction to spot seals along this stretch of ocean.
These areas are quieter in the winter, offering a serene backdrop for seal-watching as well as being prime seal-spotting time.
Read more about seal spotting in Cornwall in the winter months, the best time of year to go and where.
2. Whale Watching at Watergate Bay
The winter months sometimes bring sightings of humpback whales along the Cornish coast, especially in January. Watergate Bay is a prime location for keeping an eye on the horizon. Bring your binoculars and patience!
3. Frosty Morning Walks Along the Gannel
Take a crisp morning walk along the River Gannel estuary at low tide. In winter, the misty landscape is breathtaking, and you might spot little egrets wading in the shallows. It’s a peaceful way to start your day.
4. Cosy Drinks with a Festive Vibe at the Headland Hotel
The Headland Hotel transforms into a festive haven during the winter months, complete with Christmas decorations, roaring fires and multiple real Christmas trees in the bars, restaurants and lounge areas. Enjoy a warm drink in the hotel lounge, while taking in the spectacular sea views—perfect for getting into the festive spirit.
5. Indulge in Luxury at the Aqua Club
For a touch of winter luxury, head to the Aqua Club at The Headland Hotel. Soak in the hot tub with a steaming drink in hand while admiring panoramic views of the ocean. It’s the ultimate winter indulgence.
You can book to visit the Aqua Club only, or you can treat yourself to a spa day at the Headland Hotel to enjoy a treatment, the hotel spa area and a meal too.
6. Live Music at Lusty Glaze
Lusty Glaze Beach hosts cosy live music events throughout the winter in its indoor bar area. With its unique atmosphere and stunning sunset views, it’s a must-visit for music lovers and ocean lovers.
7. Sunday Roast Dinner at The Boathouse, Newquay Harbour
Nothing beats a hearty roast on a chilly day. The Boathouse offers delicious seasonal dishes and is open until December. Check their social media for up-to-date hours as they are seasonal and may shut earlier than planned if business is too quiet in winter.
Here’s what they had planned for autumn and winter in 2024:
8. Winter Walks and Wave Watching
Wrap up warm and take a stroll along one of Newquay’s beaches. The winter waves are mesmerising, and the quieter sands make it a peaceful experience.
Grab a bag of chips from our favourite, the Harbour Chippy, to stay warm—they are open until early November usually —or one of the other local chip shops that stay open year-round. Or treat yourself to a pasty, of course, when in Cornwall!
9. Newquay Christmas Lights Switch-On
Newquay’s Christmas lights switch-on is a charming community event that brings festive cheer to the town. It’s a lovely way to kick off the holiday season.
Dates are confirmed nearer the time, and shared on local Newquay newsgroups and the Cornwall Live website, however, it’s usually around the end weekend of November on the Friday.
You can expect a Christmas light switch on, food, drinks, a DJ or live music on the Killacourt and fireworks to finish it off!
10. Tolcarne Beach Hut Christmas Market
Explore Tolcarne Beach Hut Christmas market, where beach huts transform into festive market stalls! Find unique local gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak up the festive atmosphere in a unique way.
In 2024 they had:
- 30+ Independent Sellers
- Bar, BBQ + Pizza – with mulled wine and hot chocolates
- Live Music
Look how amazing the walkway looked for the Christmas market in 2024:
Top Tip: For coastal events like this, always keep an eye on local social media pages for the companies and events as the coastal weather can be unpredictable and sometimes too dangerous or bad for events to take place. In 2024 this event had to be postponed due to a terrible weather forecast.
11. Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Harbour
Ring in the New Year with a free fireworks display at Newquay Harbour as the clock strikes midnight.
12. Fireworks Displays
Remember, remember the fifth of November! Newquay hosts spectacular fireworks displays in the winter season, some of which are free!
Check out our list of the top fireworks displays in Newquay
13. Cold Water Swimming and Surfing
For the adventurous, cold water swimming and surfing are year-round activities in Newquay. You’ll spot people in the water all year, and even see the cold water swimmers braving the cold winter temperatures in just a swimsuit!
With a winter wetsuit, you can brave the elements and enjoy the thrill of the waves on a surfboard no matter what time of year. Just be mindful, there are no lifeguards watching the beaches in Newquay during the winter months.
14. Seasonal Christmas Events
From Santa SUP events to festive fun sea swims, Newquay’s Christmas calendar is packed with unique activities. Keep an eye out for announcements on local Newquay groups and on posters around the town as the season approaches.
15. Indoor Tennis at Heron Tennis Centre
Stay active during your winter break with indoor tennis at Heron Tennis Centre. It’s a great way to keep warm while having fun.
16. Enjoy Winter Sunsets and Sunrises
Wrap up warm and enjoy early winter sunsets from one of the three headlands in Newquay or early sunrise skies. Newquay’s location is perfect for watching a sunset, but you can still see some amazing sunrise skies as dawn breaks on winter mornings.
17. Explore Tranquil Walks at Trenance Gardens
For a change of scenery, visit Trenance Gardens. These beautifully maintained gardens offer peaceful paths alongside brooks, a duck pond, and charming bridges, creating a magical winter atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem for a quiet stroll.
Stop by Trenance Cottages or the Lakeside for a warm drink and a bite to eat. If visiting in December, admire the amazing Christmas tree and festive lights in front of Trenance Cottages when it turns dark.
18. Visit the Arcades
Experience a traditional seaside activity by visiting Newquay’s arcades. Many of these stay open throughout the year, offering family-friendly fun and a nostalgic touch to your winter getaway.
19. Dining with a View
There are some great spots to dine in Newquay in the winter in cosy restaurants while having an amazing view of the crashing winter waves outdoors. Some of our favourite spots include the Stable for delicious pizza overlooking Fistral Beach. The Lewinnick Lodge is another favourite located in an amazing location on Pentire Headland with views across to Towan Headland. At Watergate Bay, admire the views from the laidback The Beach Hut restaurant and watch the crashing waves.
Check out my article showcasing lots of our favourite vegan places to eat in Newquay with many photos of the food and restaurants.
20. Festive Miniature Steam Train Ride
The Little Western Railway usually opens for a week or so during the Christmas school holidays so you can experience a festive-themed miniature steam train ride!
Keep an eye on their Facebook page for events and opening times. Also, check out my full review of Little Western Railway in Newquay to learn all about this attraction.
21. Olla Hiki Sauna
Embrace the warmth and relaxation of the Olla Hiki Sauna, a unique experience in Newquay. Situated by the coast, this wood-fired sauna offers stunning ocean views while you unwind. It’s the perfect way to beat the winter chill and receive the benefits of heat.
The location changes throughout the year such as at Newquay Harbour or at North Fistral.
Newquay in Winter: Is It Worth It?
What can you do in Newquay in winter? Even though some attractions and local businesses close for the winter period, there is still plenty to do!
Whether you enjoying peaceful beach walks, indulging in festive treats and luxury spas, or spotting wildlife, there are so many things to do in Newquay during winter. Plus, most of the accommodation is a lot cheaper out of the busy season!
It doesn’t matter whether you are looking for things to do in Newquay in winter for couples, families or adults, there’s sure to be plenty in this list for your tastes and type of travelling party. So pack your warm clothes and discover the magic of Newquay during the colder months!
Before you go…
- Next, why not check out things to do in Newquay in the rain or discover what are the 11 beaches in Newquay.
- For nearby events, close to the Christmas period, check out the amazing Night Garden at Heligan or the Eden Project Christmas lights.
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