South Fistral, or Fistral Beach South, is the far end of the main buzz of Fistral Beach, the end furthest away from the Surf Centre – it is a quieter corner. The lifeguards aren’t often at this end of the beach, so it’s not good for a family/swimming end, but great if you want space, quiet and to paddle.
Which areas are marked off for swimming, bodyboarding and surfing do change from day to day, depending on whether there’s a surf contest on, which way the wind’s blowing, if there’s a riptide and how many lifeguards are on duty. Just be sure you understand the beach flags and which areas are designated for each of the three watersports. If you only ever intend to go thigh-high and paddle, that’s not a problem.
South Fistral Newquay
There are some great rock pools at this end of the beach, and the sand is, of course, sandy 🙂
Nestled into the cliffs on South Fistral Beach, Bodhi’s cafe offers the perfect location to relax and enjoy the stunning views from their balcony. Food to eat in or take out. Breakfast is served 10am-noon, lunch from noon to mid afternoon, and they have an evening menu. It’s not “beach caff” prices though, with a bowl of fries at £3.25, or cheesy chips at £3.75, posh sandwiches weigh in at £6+ apiece.
Services on Fistral Beach South, Newquay
- Car Parking: No car park; on-road parking is available and is free. The nearest car park is about 200 yards away, up near the roundabout where you access Pentire.
- Public Lavatories: Yes, above the beach alongside the grassy area
- Easy Access for Wheelchairs and Prams: Probably not, once you’ve got down the narrow steps (it can be tricky with two slim adults passing if one’s holding a surf board), at the bottom there can be a 2-3′ drop depending on how the sand’s shifted.
- Food Available: Yes, at Bodhi’s Cafe.  Hotels overlooking this end of the beach often provide tea-rooms and food to take away too.
Where to Stay Near to Fistral Beach South, Newquay
There are a number of hotels on Pentire, overlooking Fistral Beach and in the roads behind that. There are also a lot of privately rented holiday flats. There are some super modern apartments too, with balconies and stunning panoramic views over Fistral Beach, from Blue Chip Holidays.
Modern, Luxury Apartments on West Pentire
Pentire is the name of the peninsula/headland on the South Fistral end of the beach. This is a quieter location than the other end of the beach, giving good access to the main roads for touring, as well as being a good starting point for walking in the Crantock direction.
One of the new developments along this side is Ocean Gate, which is a luxury holiday apartment block and with the best views over Fistral Beach and Newquay golf club – you’re just 100 yards or so from the beach. Most of these flats have sea views and parking – and some are dog friendly. Bookable through Blue Chip Holidays
remwbay pop up beach shelter uv
Return to: Beaches in Newquay
Photography by: South Fistral: Steve Daniels
