Best beaches Fistral Beach Cornwall

Not only do you get the specialist Concierge service when you book with Natural Retreats, but when you arrive you'll be met by our Retreat Managers. Unlike most self-catering accommodation we have staff on-site to look after you when you stay, helping you with any aspect of your trip. All of our Retreat Managers live nearby so they are rich with local knowledge. As they gear up for the school holidays, Kim and Andrew have pulled together their best beach recommendations.

Kim, Retreat Manager at Fistral Beach

“There are so many lovely beaches and coves on the North Coast, all the way from St. Agnes up to Padstow. My favourites are Whipsiderry, in between Porth and Watergate Bay, and Bedruthan Steps on the road to Padstow, but you need to be fit to get to them as it involves walking up and down steep steps. Both beaches are surrounded by high cliffs which are ideal for sunbathing as you are more sheltered from the wind. There are also plenty of rock pools. Due to the steps, they are relatively quiet beaches.

“Porth Beach is the best all-round beach in Newquay. It's not a surfing beach but as it has parking on the beach, a river, rock pools and is large it is ideal for families and the elderly that cannot walk too far. It is also located just outside the centre, so doesn't get majorly busy.

“Further up the coast, between St Merryn and Padstow, you have 'Seven Bays for Seven Days' which consist of Porthcothan, Treyarnon, Constantine, Booby's, Mother Iveys, Harlyn and Trevone, all really gorgeous, golden sandy beaches.”

Geoff, Retreat Manager at Trewhiddle

“Pendower Beach in my opinion is the best beach in South Cornwall. At low tide, Pendower and Carne beaches unite to form a 1.5 mile long stretch of crescent-shaped beach boasting fine coastal views of Gerrans Bay.

“For keen walkers you can do a fantastic walk via the stunning South West Coast path taking in Carne, Pendower, Porthbeor and St. Anthony Head.

“The Hidden Hut cafe in Porthcurnick, as featured in Caroline Quentin's recent programme 'Cornwall', is stunning and the food offering is second to none. This beach has a car park, so ideal for families to pull up and unload.

“If you go to Padstow don't miss out on getting the ferry over to Rock — it's a short ride acorss the Camel estuary to miles of sandy beaches and is known as the windsurfing mecca for both beginners and advanced.”