Cornwall is rightly known for its many beaches so whether you're down here wanting a safe bathing beach for the children or you're more energetic and fancy trying surfing or watersports then Cornwall is definitely the place for you.
Newquay facing the Atlantic Ocean on Cornwall's north coast is probably the largest resort in Cornwall and self styled surfing capital of Britain. It was once an isolated fishing community relying on pilchards and in fact even today you can visit the harbour and watch the local fisherman unload their baskets of crabs or even book a sea angling trip.
For the more adventurous, we can highly recommend one of the UK's best extreme sports schools: Mobius offer not only kitesurfing lessons, but also landboarding and mountain biking all over Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
If surfing is your thing, head to Fistral bay in Newquay where some of the best waves in Europe are to be had. Good waves can also be found at Polzeath near Padstow where the beach takes the full force of the Atlantic swells coming from the west. This is ideally suited for beginners and intermediates and you can take lessons at one of the surf schools from a one-hour taster session to a weekend long series of lessons.
Other favourite beaches for surfing are Chapel Porth near St Agnes, Constatine and in the far west Sennen. Of course not forgetting Perranporth with the fantastic surf, lots of places to hire surfboards and book lessons and a wealth of shops selling surfing accessories and clothing.
For calmer waters try the south coast of Cornwall where the waves tend to be smaller and sheltered rocky coves can be found. Try Maenporth, Gyllingvase and Swanpool in Falmouth; Porthluney near St Austell or Long Rock and Marazion near Penzance.
Wildlife boat trips can be taken with Marine Discovery from Penzance harbour and you will also get to see some of the famous landmarks such as St Michael's Mount. Or what about a fantastic Marine Safari on the exciting 'Seaquest of Falmouth' the largest custom designed 12 seater rigid inflatable boat in the country. Boat trips aim to introduce you to the outstanding beauty of the coastline, while looking for wildlife that may include Dolphins, Basking Sharks, Seals or many other species that are regularly spotted around the Cornish Coastline.
You could also take a day trip to the stunning Isles of Scilly either using the helicopter service or by boat.
