Camping in Newquay: a hot pick for surf breaks and family hols
Surf spots, sandy beaches, seal spotting, scenic strolls – a Newquay camping holiday has heaps of things going for it. And, in good news for those not keen on chilly toes, perhaps the finest thing of all: the waters around the Cornish coast just happen to be the warmest in the whole of the UK.
It’s no surprise, then, to find that lots of folk plan to spend much of their time around these parts in or on the sea. But that’s not all there is to it: the yearly average climate around Cornwall is the warmest in all the land too – further excellent news for those planning an outdoor break of some description.
And plenty of outdoor breaks there are to pick from, too: our collection of Newquay places to stay ranges from chilled-out budget options with simple amenities to fully-fledged holiday parks packed with fab activities for family holidays. Pack up your tent for a budget break, roll along in a caravan or motorhome, or settle on somewhere that’s got all the accommodation and kit thrown in – there are lots of ways to have a camping holiday in Newquay.
Where to stay in Newquay: the top spots for all types of travellers
The centre of Newquay is a bustling place, so it’s unlikely that you’ll find many places to camp right there in town. That’s not a downside though – in many ways, you’ll have the pick of the choice spots by being a little way out into the countryside or along the coast. That’s where the best of the fresh air is, after all, and you’ll often get some sort of splendid view thrown into the mix too.
If it’s all about the surf, the coast walks or the beach days, plonk yourselves down as close as you can to the sea – several of our Newquay campsites, touring parks and motorhome pitches have sea views and/or direct access to the coast for blissfully easy days out on the water. A site that allows campfires is a handy thing if you’re likely to want to warm up by the flames after a day out on the waves – although a pub within strolling distance isn’t a bad idea on that front, either.
Camping pitches can be fab for family hols too – especially if you pick one that’s got plenty of space for your salt-tinged small sorts to run about. Look out for a good pile of facilities/activities on site if they’re prone to the occasional moan about boredom (or perhaps ensure they’ll have wifi if they’re of the age where keeping up with pals is a must).
Should you suspect the car may be rather packed full of boards/bikes/assorted kit, there’s no need to trade in your fresh air stay for a hotel: pick a Newquay camping pod if there’s only a couple of you, or check out a static caravan or lodge if you’re after something a tad roomier. Keen on keeping life as comfy as can be? There are plenty of places for glamping in Newquay too: yurts, shepherd’s huts, bell tents… take your pick…
What facilities can you expect from a Newquay holiday park or campsite?
Whatever facilities you want, really! Some Newquay campsites and holiday parks are packed with all manner of facilities (a pool, a kids’ club, a bar, a restaurant…) while others pride themselves on keeping things properly peaceful by simply providing the basics. Use the check boxes to filter sites according to the facilities you want (or don’t want…) to find a place that suits your taste.
Looking for something of a Cornish escape? Choose a wild camping site or look out a remote location to be sure of having plenty of space to yourselves. Most places around here are geared up for families, so couples seeking a bit of alone time might like to check out adults-only options…
How to fill your days on a Newquay camping break
The word ‘surfing’ is usually not too far behind when you mention Newquay – this is, after all, the surfing capital of the south-west and right up there with the world’s great places to catch a wave or few. Natch, there are bucketloads of surf schools dotted around, as well as opps for other watery sports including sailing, canoeing and kayaking, and the surfing tournaments at Fistral Beach.
Staying on dry land? Take the kids to Newquay Zoo or the Blue Reef Aquarium, or DairyLand Farm World and the Lappa Valley Steam Railway on Newquay’s outskirts; other attractions such as the Eden Project and Wadebridge’s Crealy Great Adventure Park are within easy reach. For bigger fry, there are first-class golf courses, cantering on horseback and fishing all close to hand.
Planning to take in more than one location on your hols? Check out our other options for holiday parks and camping in south-west England.