Watergate Bay is a glorious two-mile sweep of golden sand just north of Newquay, backed by steep gorse-covered cliffs riddled with caves. Known for its laid-back surf culture, watersports schools and clifftop dining, it catches plenty of Atlantic swell and offers acres of room for surfing, walking and family days by the sea.
Beach and cove guide
A simple guide to the feel of the place, how to arrive, and what to keep in mind before you go.
Watergate Bay Beach is the kind of place where the day is shaped by simple things: tide, weather, a picnic, and time to notice the coast properly.
Families, beach days, coast paths, rock pools and relaxed exploring.
Read straight through, or use the planning notes above to shape an easier coastal day.
RNLI Lifeguards are on duty:
2025
Easter School Holidays 05 April - 21 April
Weekends Only 26 April - 27 April
Daily 03 May - 28 September
Weekends Only 04 October - 19 October
October Half Term 25 October - 02 November
Patrol times 10am - 6pm
Plan the final walk from the car park and check whether the beach is easy with pushchairs, tired legs or beach bags.
A useful read before visiting with children, especially for tides, paths, facilities and simple beach expectations.
Look up tide times, swimming guidance and weather before you go, especially on wilder beaches.
A few useful Down The Cove picks connected to this read.
