Fistral is the heart of British surf culture. A wide, west-facing crescent of sand below low cliffs, it catches Atlantic swells that have travelled three thousand miles, and on a good day produces the most consistent surf in England. Long lefts off the reef at the southern end, beach breaks in the middle, and the occasional barrel on the right when the conditions line up.
For visitors who do not surf there is plenty to enjoy: a long walk on the sand, surf-watching from the cliff above, and the cafes and bars at the back of the beach. Surf schools rent boards and wetsuits and run beginner lessons most days through the summer. The Boardmasters Festival in August combines surf and music and turns the cliff above into a tent city.