Watergate Bay in Cornwall - "It's just perfect"
These are my daughter's words. With such stunning views, a sandy beach, plenty of activities and restaurants, a top-reviewed hotel, and an airport 2 miles away, I have to agree - you can't miss it!
Alongside this article, we're publishing a companion episode of our immersive podcast dedicated to Watergate Bay in Cornwall. You can listen to it below or on your favourite Podcast app. Just search for Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho.
Hey there 👋🏻
The sun's peeking out (finally!), and that means one thing: it's beach time!
If you're searching for the perfect UK seaside escape, look no further than the stunning Watergate Bay in Cornwall.
I recently took my family on a two-day trip, and we had such a fantastic adventure that I have to share our itinerary with you!
With a sprawling golden beach, a top-notch family-friendly hotel, endless activities to keep everyone entertained, and even some precious 'me-time' thanks to free childcare – Watergate Bay has it all. Add in gourmet dining, a thrilling sea safari, beachside yoga, world-class surf lessons, and a detour to the paradise that is the Eden Project... it's the recipe for a truly unforgettable family holiday.
Oh, and did I mention there's even an airport 5 minutes away for all you flying enthusiasts?
Getting/Flying to Watergate Bay
Let's be honest – family road trips can be a bit of a mixed bag. There's the excitement of a new destination, the endless snacks, and of course, the inevitable "Are we there yet?" chorus. Cornwall might be a dream with its beaches and sunshine, but the journey there... well, let's just say it's an adventure in itself!
But hey, a little chaos is part of the fun, right? It makes the moment you finally see that coastline all the sweeter. So pack those snacks, queue up the singalongs, and enjoy the journey – it's all part of the adventure!
Now, if you're a pilot, forget the long drive! Watergate Bay is practically on the doorstep of Cornwall Airport Newquay. It's only a two-mile journey – a quick taxi, bus journey or rental car, and your toes are in the sand.
From air traffic control to Flynqy (handling), you'll be in great hands throughout your arrival.
Our destination
Watergate Bay isn't about giant hotel chains or traditional UK seaside resorts – think more of a cosy, tucked-away secret. This means you won't be bumping elbows with massive crowds, which honestly, is part of its charm. It's the kind of place where you feel like you've discovered a hidden gem.
A wonderful place to experience this charm is the Watergate Bay Hotel.
Just over a century ago, where the hotel stands today, there was just a quiet stretch of beach. It was the perfect curve in Watergate Bay, the sand stretching two glorious miles all the way from Porth to Trevelgue Head.
The Watergate Bay Hotel came to life in 1900, built with the dream of welcoming tourists arriving by train. Alas, much like the long-awaited HS2, that railway never happened. But the hotel did.
Over the years, it's changed hands and worn many hats. It even became a cosy Officer's Mess for the RAF during World War II. I would argue they were the Officer’s Mess with the best view!
Today, after some recent development works, the hotel and the bay itself shine! It's the perfect place to unwind, whether you're craving ocean views, family adventures, a bit of pampering in the spa (they’ve got a kids’ club to allow this space and time), or simply want to feel the sand between your toes. Even dogs are welcome!
It's a place where time slows down and smiles come easy. I know, it sounds cheesy, but it’s so true!
For Flying Visitors: Weather-Proof Your Stay
Pilots, a heads-up! The hotel's cancellation policy is a bit strict, so keep the weather forecast in mind when planning your visit. Here are some options to ensure your plans can adapt:
Plan B: Have a backup ground transportation plan just in case flying doesn't work out.
Local Stays: Explore nearby B&Bs or consider the Premier Inn Seaside in Newquay. They've got generous cancellation policies (up to 1 p.m. on arrival day!) for those last-minute changes.
Beachfront Yoga: giggles, tangled limbs, and so much joy
If you, like me, greet the sunrise with a smile, then I have the perfect way to start your day – beach yoga! Imagine the serenity of the shore at dawn: a gentle breeze, the sound of the waves, and the promise of a brand-new day.
We booked a private family session, eager for a shared experience. On the day, it was 8 degrees with gusty wind that whipped the sand into our faces! Ugh. Maybe not the ideal beachside yoga scenario, but our adaptable Yoga teacher Gemma moved us indoors for a heartwarming and surprisingly hilarious family yoga experience.
Were there giggles every time one of us wobbled in a pose? Absolutely. Did a few downward dogs threaten to end with tangled limbs and laughter? You bet. But did we all leave with a sense of peace, joy, and a strengthened family bond? Definitely!
Learning to Surf
When you think of top-notch British surfing, Cornwall instantly comes to mind - and Watergate Bay is no exception as home to the English National Surf Championships! Its epic waves and stunning coastline make it a surfer’s dream.
Speaking of Cornish waves, my own surfing adventure ended years ago, even before it started, with the instructor politely suggesting building sandcastles might be a better fit! Let's just say the lifeguards know me by name and not for my wave-riding skills.
This time, I was the beaming dad on the sidelines as my daughter Amélia took on those Cornish waves for her very first lesson.
If you're ready to try surfing Watergate Bay's famous waves, there's a lesson waiting for you – whether you're a beginner or ready to level up. Choose private or group sessions, both with equipment included. Children as young as seven are most welcome to join the adventure.
Gemma (our Yoga teacher) and her partner Adam run a surf and Yoga school in Watergate Bay. You can book lessons at Blue Surf School. Please book with them. They just started their own business and their story is really inspiring.
Remember: getting into a wetsuit is an adventure in itself! Arrive early for your lesson to give yourself time for the epic wetsuit wrestling match, especially if it's your first time. (P.S. You're not alone – hear our hilarious struggle in our podcast episode!)
Cornish Village Vibes & Sea Safari Rides
Just a 20-minute taxi ride from Watergate Bay lies the postcard-perfect fishing village of Padstow. If you've ever dreamed of a charming Cornish seaside town, this is it. Picture cobblestone streets winding past quaint shops, colourful boats bobbing in the sun-dappled harbour, and seagulls wheeling overhead.
Please note that If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting during spring or autumn when the crowds are smaller.
But I don’t recommend visiting Padstow just to admire the village – please take a sea safari! From Padstow, you can hop aboard a speed boat and set off on a one, two, or three-hour adventure to explore Cornwall's incredible marine wildlife. Depending on the season and a touch of luck, you might spot playful dolphins, sunbathing seals, charming puffins, and countless other creatures who call this coastline home.
Now, these boats are fast! And by fast, I mean a rollercoaster-style thrill ride. Our daughters absolutely loved it! For those who prefer a gentler pace, be aware that these safaris might feel a bit too adventurous.
If you ask my family what the highlight of our Cornish weekend was, they'll shout in unison, “The sea safari!”.
Windy or rainy Cornwall? That’s your lucky day
On our last day at Watergate Bay, we woke up to 40-mile-hour winds. “Forget the sea, hikes or any outdoor activity”, I said to myself.
But the great news is that contrary to what many might say, Cornwall has some fantastic activity options for rainy or windy days.
What happened that day was an unexpected family adventure to the Eden Project. And in Eden, I felt I was.
Located 30 minutes from Watergate Bay, the Eden Project looks out of this world. Its giant domes, like spaceships landed in the countryside, recreate the biodiversity of many forests around the world. One moment, you're in the lush Amazon with towering trees and waterfalls, the next you're having lunch amongst the citrus scents of Greece. It's a place of incredible contrasts and an experience for all your senses!
Children will love pretending to be rainforest explorers, climbing through the canopy and finding hidden treasures. Adults will appreciate the remarkable transformation of this landscape – a former quarry now blooming with life and inspiration.
With play areas, giant sculptures, and gardens to roam, the Eden Project is a family adventure you won't forget.
A family ticket for four typically costs around £100. Children under 5 go free, and your tickets automatically become annual passes, allowing you to return as many times as you want. Ah, if you are looking for a place to eat, head to the Mediterranean Biodome, where you’ll find a restaurant that seems just out of Mamma Mia the musical.
At the end of the day, I'm so glad we didn't stick to our original plan. It led us to something unexpected and unforgettable.
Michelin Guide meets Pizza
I could write a whole article just about food in Cornwall. Fresh ingredients, locally produced ice cream, fantastic breads. The region is a foodie's paradise!
Take Padstow, a village of just 2,500 residents. This little town has six Michelin Guide reviewed restaurants – a true testament to Cornwall's culinary excellence. One such gem is Café Rojano, its Mediterranean-inspired menu earning it well-deserved Michelin recognition. Their Neapolitan-style pizzas, crafted with the freshest, most flavourful ingredients, are simply the best I've ever tasted.
Other places to eat
As our days at Watergate Bay wound down, my family and I found ourselves drawn to the same spot: the Beach Hut. Nestled at the edge of the sand, this relaxed restaurant welcomes every member of the family (including four-legged ones).
Their menu strikes a perfect balance, offering fresh local produce alongside a playful selection of treats—the length of their hot chocolate options alone could rival my aeroplane checklist!
The warmth and welcome we experience at the Beach Hut is, in my opinion, one of the key reasons why Watergate Bay feels so special.
My compass
I was born in Portugal, where the beach was my playground. Moving to the UK, the ocean's echo felt distant. But Cornwall—ah, Cornwall! It restores that simple magic: the sun's warmth, the symphony of waves and seagulls, and the delicious food.
I'm blessed I can fly there in just 75 minutes. Even if I couldn't, my compass would always point toward Watergate Bay, reminding me the sea will always be my old friend.
If you visit Watergate Bay with your family, I hope it is as beautiful and meaningful as mine with my wife and the girls. This post is my attempt to help you achieve just that.
Whether you're building sandcastles with loved ones, tackling the Atlantic waves, or savouring a sunset meal by the beach, I hope Watergate Bay leaves you as refreshed and inspired as it does me.
Until next time, keep exploring and happy travels!
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Extras for Travel Plans+ subscribers: Beautiful Downloadable Travel Guide
A beautifully designed and downloadable PDF Travel Guide with all the details of this adventure is also available to Travel Plans+ subscribers (from 1st December)