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Newquay the Ibiza of the UK?

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Holiday makers swap Ibiza sunshine for Cornish Beaches

Best of Newquay Summer!

Is Newquay the new Ibiza? UK Holidaymakers certainly think so – reports of UK residents swapping the chaos of flights to Ibiza for the Coast of Cornwall have made national news. Here at the Newquay Activity Centre, we’re inclined to agree.

Newquay is the UKs surf capital, it’s home to five beaches each with its own unique surf break, there’s a stunning coastline, abundant wildlife, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With a vibrant nightlife, a growing foodie scene, and live music venues, there’s something for everyone in Newquay, it certainly gives Ibiza a run for its money.

With our local knowledge and experience we’ve pulled together a whole list of reasons Newquay is better than Ibiza. Explore the best of Newquay by taking in some or all of the suggestions below this summer.

1. Newquay has the best bars in Cornwall

Newquay is famous for its vibrant and lively nightlife. Much like it’s Ibiza cousin it has bars and clubs suited to every vibe, whether you’re looking for cool cocktails in a buzzing bar or somewhere to dance the night away, our top spots are

The best spot in town for cocktails, Tom Thumb is a charming, compact venue where you can sip on an expertly made cocktail and enjoy the company of your friends and family. Check out their signature RNLI cocktails, each themed after the lifesaving lifeguards and delicious to boot.   

The best spot in town for cocktails, Tom Thumb is a charming, compact venue where you can sip on an expertly made cocktail and enjoy the company of your friends and family. Check out their signature RNLI cocktails, each themed after the lifesaving lifeguards and delicious to boot.   

@thefreelife_byamy Summer has come early in Newquay 🤩💫 serious summer vibes tonight at @fistral beach bar - ily cornwall 💜 #cornwall #cornwalllife #fistralbeach #cornwalltiktok ♬ original sound - Amy Nicholson

2. Newquay’s Thriving Food Scene

Newquay’s food scene has exploded over the past few years, and is now home to tons of restaurants catering to every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger and a beer, pizza and prosecco or some good old fashioned fish and chips by the seaside, there’s something here for you. We’ve narrowed down our three current favourites but there’s so many top eats in Newquay, you’ll never be short on ideas!  

Pachanga delivers delicious, fresh Mexican cuisine. This vibrant restaurant hosts delectable feasts that will have your mouth watering. Visit for breakfast, lunch and dinner for the authentic flavours of Mexico in the heart of Newquay.

Disc Jockey’s is a local secret, that’s not so secret anymore! Offering an amazing selection of delicious and mouthwatering fresh pizzas, with vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options available. The lively restaurant has a great vibe and plenty of drinks options, or you can takeaway and enjoy your pizza on the beach.  

Check out Hakari kitchen for the best takeaway in central Newquay. Just up the road from the Newquay Activity Centre, it’s the perfect grub for a post surf snack. We highly recommend their proper Canadian poutine, smash burgers and amazing selection of vegan food.  

3. Newquay’s Coffee Scene

Newquay residents are as hooked on caffeine as the rest of the world, and we have some brilliant coffee shops to prove it. Excellent coffee, delicious cakes and plentiful food, in bright and welcoming cafes. There’s no shortage of amazing coffee shops in Newquay but here’s our three favourites.

A relaxed and fun atmosphere and surfer vibes go hand in hand in this chic cafe. With excellent coffee, delicious breakfasts and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by. 

This sunshine field cafe and bakery does great coffees and hot chocolates, tasty home baked breads, delicious displays of pastries and the best sandwiches in town. They change their menu frequently to keep things interesting and sometimes offer bagels and pizzas as well.

This small cafe offers up a great range of cakes and pastries daily, mix in the welcoming staff, delicious coffee and relaxing vibes and you’ve got the cutest hangout spot in town. 

4. Newquay is the UK Surf Capital

There are five amazing beaches in  Newquay and a load more just outside. With consistent waves all year round, it’s no wonder surfers come from around the world to surf on our shores. There’s so many ways to enjoy Newquay’s ocean whether you’re a total beach beginner or a surfing pro, here are just a few:

Newquay Activity Centre have been giving surf lessons in Newquay for over 20 years. We’re the longest running surf school in Newquay and have the best instructors around. Join us surfing at Newquay’s Great Western beach or world famous Fistral beach for a taste of the surfing life!

Explore the wild coast of Cornwall and its unique craggy cliffs like never before. Join one of our coasteering adventures and experience a buzz like no other. You’ll clamber through old smugglers’ caves, spot incredible marine life, negotiate natural rapids and whirlpools before attempting adrenaline-fuelled sea cliff jumps.

Paddleboarding is the coolest, most serene way of exploring the coastline. On our tours you’ll be taken to some unique parts of the Cornish coast. Our stand-up paddleboarding sessions

will teach you how to manoeuvre and control your paddleboard and give you a unique insight to Newquays coastline.

5. Newquay is perfect for family adventures

Adults and children will never be bored in Newquay. There’s plenty to engage all minds young and old, from morning till night. With fun filled adventures for the whole family, there’ll be no long faces this summer with a holiday in Newquay. Try one of these epic family adventures to get started.

A unique way to discover Crantock and the beaches at the southern end of Newquay. Take a guided pony ride along the scenic river and across the beach, a journey like no other. All abilities are catered for and even kids can go along on this one-of-a-kind experience. 

There’s so much to see under the waves off the coast of Newquay. With local seal colonies, dolphins, sea birds, fish and even if you’re lucky passing whales, taking a sea safari is a sure fire way to get the kids excited to be outdoors and getting up close to nature.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore and appreciate Newquay’s incredible coastal environment. Each of our kayaking tours are great for all ages and abilities. We’ll help you to discover the coast from this unique perspective, moving at your own speed under the guidance of our experienced, qualified and outgoing instructors.

The UK's answer to Ibiza!

Have we got you convinced? Forget about Ibiza and check out our guide on places to stay or get booking your ocean activities today!

Newquay Activity Centre offers the ideal setting for coastal adventures. We ensure a seamless experience for all our guests offering an extensive range of activities and over 25 years of experience; we’re renowned for our expertise and our friendly instructors and we consistently rank at the top on TripAdvisor and have won multiple tourism awards, combining thrilling adventures with essential sea safety to make your summer adventures unforgettable.

Ready to plan your next great beach escape to Cornwall?  Book in now or get in touch for more information.

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