Watergate Bay

Updated: June 8, 2025
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Walk Highlights

Location:
Newquay
Postcode:
TR8 4AA
Parking:

There are several pay and display car parks located at Watergate Bay in Cornwall, situated both at beach level and on the clifftops near the main hotels and restaurants (e.g., Watergate Bay Hotel car park, council-run car parks). Parking charges apply and can be significant during peak season. These car parks can get extremely busy, especially in summer and when surf conditions are good, for this very popular Cornish beach. Arrive very early or consider visiting at off-peak times for the best chance of parking.

Distance:
3.50 miles
Time:
2.00 hours
Difficulty:
Easy
Terrain:

The terrain at Watergate Bay in Cornwall is primarily sandy beach, which is generally firm and easy to walk on near the water's edge at low tide but can be soft and more tiring higher up. Access to the beach from car parks often involves slopes or steps. The South West Coast Path sections along the clifftops are challenging, with steep, rocky, and uneven paths and numerous ascents and descents. This Cornish walk offers both easy beach strolling and strenuous clifftop hiking.

Facilities:
Toilets, Cafe
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Enjoy a stunning coastal walk at Watergate Bay in Cornwall, a magnificent two-mile stretch of golden sand backed by dramatic cliffs, renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, expansive beach, and vibrant atmosphere. Located on the North Cornwall coast near Newquay, this walk allows you to experience one of Cornwall's most popular and picturesque beaches, perfect for long strolls, beachcombing, watersports, and enjoying breathtaking Atlantic views. Watergate Bay is a premier Cornish beach destination.

Walks at Watergate Bay typically involve strolling along the length of the vast sandy shoreline, which is particularly impressive at low tide, revealing numerous rock pools and caves at the cliff bases. You can also connect with the South West Coast Path which runs along the clifftops above the bay, offering more challenging hikes with even more spectacular views towards Newquay to the south or Mawgan Porth to the north. The beach is a hub for surf schools and beachside cafes/restaurants, adding to its lively appeal. This Cornish location is perfect for a classic beach and clifftop walk.

  • Explore the magnificent Watergate Bay in Cornwall, a renowned surfing and family beach near Newquay.
  • Walk along two miles of golden sand backed by dramatic cliffs, with stunning Atlantic views.
  • Discover rock pools and caves at low tide, or take the South West Coast Path for elevated vistas.
  • A very popular Cornish beach destination with excellent facilities, surf schools, and beachside cafes.


A walk along Watergate Bay beach itself can be as long or short as you like, up to 4 miles return if walking its full length. Coastal path walks from here can be tailored to various lengths and difficulties, offering some of the best coastal walking in Cornwall. Always check tide times before setting out on any beach walk, as high tide can significantly reduce the available beach area.

Information Accuracy

Conditions can change. Please verify critical information locally. Your safety is your responsibility.

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