
Watergate Bay
Expansive sandy beach with dramatic cliffs, renowned for surfing, watersports, and the iconic Watergate Bay Hotel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas, fewer crowds

Watergate Bay
Best Time
Calm seas, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive sandy beach with dramatic cliffs, renowned for surfing, watersports, and the iconic Watergate Bay Hotel.
"The most perfect beach escape in the UK with stunning views and luxury amenities."

🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during peak times. Consider arriving early or using shuttle services if available.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Numerous surf schools offer lessons for all levels. Book in advance, especially during busy periods.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Sandy Beach
Watergate Bay
Miles of golden sand perfect for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and long walks with dramatic cliff backdrops.

Thrill of Watersports
Watergate Bay
Catch a wave with surfing lessons or try your hand at kitesurfing and paddleboarding on the Atlantic swells.

Watergate Bay Hotel
Cliffside overlooking the bay
Iconic hotel with stunning sea views, renowned restaurants, and a famous infinity pool open to the public.

South West Coast Path
Starts near Watergate Bay
Scenic coastal walks offering breathtaking views of the rugged Cornish coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during peak times. Consider arriving early or using shuttle services if available.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Numerous surf schools offer lessons for all levels. Book in advance, especially during busy periods.
🏊♀️ Pool with a View
The Watergate Bay Hotel pool is a must-visit, even if you're not staying. Bookings are essential.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches
Dogs are welcome on Watergate Bay during the winter months, but restrictions apply in summer.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during peak times. Consider arriving early or using shuttle services if available.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Numerous surf schools offer lessons for all levels. Book in advance, especially during busy periods.
🏊♀️ Pool with a View
The Watergate Bay Hotel pool is a must-visit, even if you're not staying. Bookings are essential.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches
Dogs are welcome on Watergate Bay during the winter months, but restrictions apply in summer.
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Adventures
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the stunning South West Coast Path.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Watergate Bay is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, expansive sandy beach, and vibrant watersports scene. Visitors love the dramatic coastal views, the excellent dining options, and the luxurious experience at the Watergate Bay Hotel. Some find the prices, particularly at the hotel, to be on the higher side, and parking can be a challenge during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Watergate Bay is easily accessible from Newquay. You can drive, taking approximately 10-15 minutes. Local buses also run regularly between Newquay town center and Watergate Bay, offering a convenient and scenic journey.
Yes, there are car parks available at Watergate Bay, but they can get very busy, especially during peak season. Arriving early is advised, or consider using public transport or taxis.
While it's a bit of a trek, you can walk along the coast path from Newquay to Watergate Bay. It's a beautiful route offering stunning views, but allow ample time and wear appropriate footwear.
During the Boardmasters festival, specific transport arrangements are usually in place, including shuttle buses from Newquay. Check the official Boardmasters website for the most up-to-date travel information.
Absolutely! The drive along the Cornish coast to Watergate Bay is incredibly scenic, with breathtaking ocean vistas. Many visitors enjoy the journey as part of their experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Watergate Bay beach itself is free to access. There are charges for parking in the designated car parks.
The infinity pool at Watergate Bay Hotel is generally open to the public, but booking is essential and there is a fee. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead for current pricing and availability.
The South West Coast Path is a public right of way and is free to access. There are no entry fees.
It is highly recommended to book surf lessons in advance, especially during the busy summer months and school holidays, to secure your spot.
Entry fees for the Watergate Bay Sprint event vary each year. It's best to check the official event website for ticketing information closer to the date.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Watergate Bay offers a wide range of activities including surfing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, swimming, beachcombing, and walking the South West Coast Path.
Yes, Watergate Bay is very family-friendly. The wide sandy beach is great for kids to play on, and lifeguards are present during the summer months for safe swimming.
Dogs are welcome at Watergate Bay during the off-season (typically from October to April). During the summer months, there are restrictions on where dogs can be.
The surf conditions at Watergate Bay are often best during the autumn and winter months, but it's also popular with beginners and intermediates during the summer. Check local surf reports for current conditions.
Yes, lifeguards are on duty at Watergate Bay during the summer months, providing a safe environment for swimmers and watersports enthusiasts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Watergate Bay boasts several excellent dining options, including restaurants at the Watergate Bay Hotel like Zacry's, as well as cafes and eateries along the beach.
Yes, you can dine at the restaurants within the Watergate Bay Hotel even if you are not a guest. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for Zacry's.
Most restaurants in Watergate Bay, including those at the hotel, offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus in advance or inform your server.
You can expect a variety of cuisines, from fresh seafood and modern British dishes at the hotel restaurants to casual beachside snacks and meals.
Dining options range from casual and more affordable beach cafes to higher-end restaurants at the hotel. Prices can vary, but it's generally considered a premium destination.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire bay offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the dramatic cliffs and expansive beach to the surfers in action and the iconic Watergate Bay Hotel. Sunset and sunrise shots are particularly spectacular.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic cloud formations often seen here can also make for striking images.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may require permits. It's essential to check with local authorities and the hotel if you plan to fly a drone, especially near the hotel or during events.
The South West Coast Path provides elevated viewpoints overlooking the bay. The area around the Watergate Bay Hotel also offers fantastic vantage points.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing surfers or distant wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and sea colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the beach, the Watergate Bay Hotel offers amenities that can cater to families, and the general atmosphere of the bay is relaxed and welcoming. Packing beach toys, snacks, and plenty of sun protection is key for a successful family day out. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Watersports Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, the bay is also a hub for kitesurfing and paddleboarding. The open expanse of the bay provides ample space for these activities. It's advisable to check local conditions and perhaps consult with local watersports providers for the best advice on when and where to paddle out safely.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Remember to wear sturdy walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Bring water and snacks, especially for longer hikes. The path provides opportunities to discover hidden coves and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Cornish coastline.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing and Watersports Paradise
When planning your watersports adventure, consider the tide times and wave conditions, which can vary significantly. Many surf schools provide guidance on the best times to paddle out. Even if you're not participating, watching the surfers carve through the waves from the shore or one of the beachside cafes is a captivating experience.
For those seeking a more relaxed aquatic experience, the Watergate Bay Hotel's infinity pool offers a luxurious alternative with breathtaking sea views. While it's a popular spot for hotel guests, the pool is often open to the public with advance booking, providing a unique way to enjoy the coastal scenery.
The Iconic Watergate Bay Hotel
Beyond accommodation, the hotel is a culinary hotspot. Zacry's restaurant is a highlight, offering innovative dishes using local Cornish produce. Other dining options within the hotel cater to various tastes, from casual beachside bites to more refined meals. The hotel's famous infinity pool is a major draw, providing an unparalleled swimming experience with the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop.
While the hotel offers a premium experience, its restaurants and pool are often accessible to non-guests, allowing visitors to sample its renowned offerings. However, due to its popularity, reservations are strongly advised, particularly during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment.
Exploring the South West Coast Path
Walkers can head north towards Padstow or south towards Newquay, with each direction offering unique scenery and challenges. The terrain can be varied, ranging from gentle coastal strolls to more strenuous climbs, so appropriate footwear and clothing are essential. The path is well-signposted, but it's always wise to carry a map or use a navigation app.
Along the path, you'll encounter breathtaking vistas, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and perhaps even discover secluded beaches accessible only on foot. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Cornwall and experience its wild, untamed coastline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit