Are you a beach a lover? Do you love nothing more than spending time relaxing on the golden sands, topping up your tan? Or, are you someone who prefers water sports and can’t wait to jump on a surfboard and hit the waves? Whatever your preference may be, there’s a beach somewhere nearby that’s right for you.

We’re exactly half-way between beaches on the North and South coasts, so if you’re not sure which way to head, take a look at sky, check the wind direction and have a look at the tide times here, and you won’t go far wrong!

From hidden coves that are perfect for rock-pooling to the best surfing locations, it’s all just a skimming stone’s throw away. Be inspired and read our guide to the best local beaches…

Fistral Beach

Probably one of the most iconic beaches in the country, Fistral Beach is renowned as something of a surfing hot spot. Quite simply it is one of the most consistent and best surfing beaches in the UK and Europe. This beautiful beach is west facing, long and sandy and backed by rocks and cliffs. It is close to Newquay town centre, so you’re not far from amenities.

Watergate Bay

This large beach boasts two miles of golden sand at low tides, which stretches toward Newquay and out to sea. Enormous waves come in from the Atlantic providing a spectacular sight and a popular surfing and kitesurfing spot. It is a large, open bay and frequently picks up swell from the Atlantic and is popular with families and surfers. It’s also a popular spot for a bite to eat with the Beach Hut.

Crantock Beach

Backed by sand dunes, this National Trust-owned beach is often much quieter than those in and around Newquay town centre but is a real hidden gem. If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle (and take your dog for a walk on the beach at any time of year) then take a trip down here. It is also a great spot for surfing, too.

Constantine Beach

Good Beach Guide Recommended in 2015, Constantine Beach has a reputation as one of the best surfing beaches in North Cornwall. The bay offers a sweeping arc of gently shelving soft pale sands. This west-facing beach also has numerous rock pools to explore and is very popular for swimming and surfing.

Mawgan Porth

This large west-facing beach has plenty of sand at high tide and is popular with families. It was Good Beach Guide Recommended 2015, this sheltered beach is halfway between Newquay and Padstow.

Pendower Beach

Take a trip to the beautiful Roseland Peninsula. When you think you’ve reached the end – keep going…and then you’ll find Pendower Beach. Good Beach Guide Recommended in 2015 this is a popular family beach, is south facing about a mile long and sandy that joins with Carne beach at low tide. It’s also dog-friendly all year.