Newquay is built around its beaches. Fistral on the west side of town is the surf beach; Towan, Great Western, Tolcarne and Lusty Glaze cluster along the town centre as sheltered family beaches; and Watergate Bay, two miles north, is the long open stretch of sand that rewards a short drive or bus ride out of town.
Crantock and Holywell Bay, across the Gannel estuary to the south, are quieter and prettier than anything in Newquay proper. All Cornish beaches are open to the public; many are lifeguarded in summer.