Newquay

Most people arrive in Newquay for the beaches, and that's the right instinct. A first visit usually starts with getting into the water or at least down onto the sand, whether that's at Crantock Beach or out along Holywell Bay, both known for the kind of wide, open coastline that makes this stretch of Cornwall a proper surf destination. If you've never picked up a board, outfits like Cornish Wave Surf & Adventure and Newquay Activity Centre run lessons and can point you towards the right beach for your level, while Stay Active Adventures covers other ways to get out on the water and the coast.

Once you've had your fill of the sea, Newquay has plenty to keep a first trip busy on land. Cornwall Laser Tag and Crazy Football Golf are good options for an afternoon with kids or a group, and the Newquay Mystery Treasure Trail is a way to explore the town itself rather than just the beaches. It's an easy place to fill two or three days without repeating yourself, mixing an active morning with a slower afternoon.

Food in Newquay leans towards relaxed and beach-friendly. Great Western Beach Cafe and Beach Box Mawgan Porth are the sort of places to grab something after a morning surfing, while Gwenna Teahouse and Jampen Cafe suit a slower, sit-down breakfast or afternoon tea. Ladyvale Bakery is worth seeking out if you want something to take away and eat on the sand, and Counter Culture, Halwyn and Jungle Jacks give you more options for an evening meal once the beach day is done.

A first trip to Newquay works best if you don't try to see everything at once. Pick a beach, get out on the water if you can, and build the rest of the visit around it. With this much choice in where to stay and eat, it's easy to come back and do it differently next time.