Walk - Newquay to Perranporth

12.6 miles (20.2 km)

Newquay Perranporth

Challenging - Moderate to strenuous

After leaving Newquay harbour, keeping a lookout for the Kittiwake colony on the cliffs out to Towan Head, the Path crosses the famous Fistral Beach. The route across the River Gannel varies depending on the season, tide and weather conditions and therefore you will need to plan ahead. Either way there is plenty to see, including beautiful salt marsh plants and many species of wading birds enjoying the worms and crabs.

The West Pentire headland is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its breathtaking seasonal wildflowers such as the June poppies and corn marigold flowers in the arable fields overlooking Crantock Beach.

Fantastic views of the seabirds around the offshore twin pyramids of Carter’s Rocks await around the next headland as you approach the dunes of Holywell and Perran Sands. Walking across the dunes can be quite tiring, but if the tide is right out you can walk to Perranporth across the beach.

Dogs on the coastpath

Report a problem

Safety advice

Share this page:

There are a range of wonderful places to lay your head near the Coast Path for a well-earned sleep. From large and luxurious hotels, to small and personable B&B's, as well as self-catering options and campsites. The businesses that support the Path, where you've chosen to visit, are listed here.

St George's Country House Hotel

01872 572184

Ideal stop over for hikers.

Show on map Visit website

Treago Farm Caravan & Camping Site

01637 830277

Small family run farm site, just off West Pentire Headland, with footpaths to Coast Path. Open from Easter to 1st Oct. Modern washroom facilities, laundry & well stocked shop and takeaway.

Show on map Visit website

Smarties Surf Lodge

07890 125172

We offer a personable and comfortable stay, situated in a quiet street, perfect for relaxing after a long day walking. Our selection of double, triple and bunk rooms are mostly en-suite.

Show on map Visit website

Kimberley Bed & Breakfast

01872 552044

Relax in the garden and large sun terrace. Conveniently situated close to village center, pubs and restaurants

Show on map Visit website

The Three Tees Hotel

01637 872055

Family run licensed hotel, off street parking. Situated in quiet Lusty Glaze area of Newquay. Short walk from Coast Path and town centre.

Show on map Visit website

You'll be spoilt for choice for where to eat and drink along the Path. With lots of local seasonal food on offer, fresh from the farm, field and waters. Try our local ales, ciders, wines and spirits, increasing in variety by the year, as you sit in a cosy pub, fine dining restaurant or chilled café on the beach. The businesses that support the Path, where you've chosen to visit, are listed here.

Bowgie Inn Ltd

01637 830363

With unrivalled sea views, lots of seating inside & out, The Bowgie Inn & the surrounding area is the perfect place to explore all year round!

Show on map Visit website

C-Bay Cafe

01637 830229

Dog friendly Cafe with beautiful views sitting on the Coast Path at West Pentire Head. Also offer Self-Catering Crantock Bay Apartments

Show on map Visit website

What is on your list of things to do when you visit the Path? From walking companies, to help you tailor your visit, with itineraries and experts to enhance your visit, to baggage transfer companies and visitor attractions there are lots to people and places to help you decide what you'd like to do. The businesses that support the Path, where you've chosen to visit, are listed here.

Newquay Zoo

01803 697500

Get close to over1000 rare & endangered animals in 13 acres of tropical gardens. Run wild and release your inner animal.

Show on map Visit website

Highlights

The tiny white Huer’s hut overlooking Newquay Bay. The Huer was a lookout who had the important job of alerting the fishermen when shoals of pilchards were spotted in the bay.

Crossing the River Gannel: you have a number of options including taking the summer ferry, using one of the tidal bridges southeast of Pentire or following the main road and taking the alternative route through Trevemper.

The birds who enjoy the sandy haven of the Gannel Estuary. Thousands of birds travel here to find winter shelter, including ringed plover, greenshank, dunlin, curlew and teal.

Crantock Beach backed by a grassy plateau called Rushy Green.

Fantastic views from Pentire Point west. This area is owned by the National Trust who are keen to encourage wild flowers and grasses.

The hidden beach of Porth Joke.

Holywell Beach dunes, home to hundreds of different insects. You may also see dolphins from here.

Penhale Point with Iron Age defences still visible. Fantastic views here stretch to St Agnes Head, Godrevy Point and St Ives beyond.

Looking south from Ligger Point over the 2 mile stretch of golden sands of Perran Beach.

The view across the sands of Perran Beach from Droskyn Point with its natural rock arch. This is a good place to watch the surfers of Perranporth.

The Millennium sundial located on the point of the Droskyn mine overlooking Perren Bay. The dial shows ‘Cornish times’ which are 20 minutes behind GMT.