Newquay vs St Ives: which is better for holidays?

Newquay and St Ives. They’re the two most popular towns in Cornwall, and for good reason. The beaches in both are beautiful and they are home to some of the best things to do in the Duchy.

But, if it’s your first trip to Cornwall and you’re trying to decide between Newquay and St Ives, the decision can feel daunting.

I’ve been to both numerous times (and have family living close by, so here’s my full comparison!

Beaches

Newquay: When it comes to beaches, Newquay is the undisputed king of surf (at least in the UK!)

Fistral Beach, with its powerful Atlantic swells, is a magnet for surfers from around the world, hosting major competitions and drawing in those eager to ride the waves.

But Newquay’s beaches offer something for everyone.

Watergate Bay stretches for miles, perfect for families looking to spend a day by the sea, with plenty of space for kids to run wild and build sandcastles.

Towan Beach is in the heart of Newquay with easy access and a lively atmosphere, while nearby Crantock Beach has a more relaxed vibe and is ideal for picnics and paddleboarding.

St Ives: St Ives also does beaches very well – but generally they’re a bit less activity-focused!

Porthminster Beach, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, feels almost Mediterranean, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking in the stunning views of St Ives Bay.

Porthmeor Beach, on the other hand, is a favorite among artists and photographers, thanks to its dramatic sunsets and the iconic view of the Tate St Ives perched on the hillside. It’s the best beach in the area for surfing.

Porthgwidden Beach is a small, sheltered cove that’s perfect for a quiet day by the sea.

Atmosphere and Vibe

Newquay: Newquay pulses with energy.

Known as the UK’s surf capital, it’s a town that thrives on adrenaline and good times.

The vibe here is young, lively, and a bit wild, with surfboards under arms and wetsuits hanging out to dry as you lead down to the beach.

The town’s nightlife is just as vibrant as its beaches, with bars, clubs, and beach parties keeping the energy high long after the sun sets.

However, Newquay’s town centre is rather run down and while the beachfront is beautiful, tourists are often shocked to find just how dated and shoddy it can b e.

St Ives: Searching for more of a tranquil escape? St Ives could be your answer!

The atmosphere here is artistic and relaxed, with narrow, winding streets leading you past galleries, studios and quaint cafes.

St Ives has long been a magnet for artists, and that creative energy still permeates the town.

It’s a place where you’re more likely to spend your days browsing art, sipping coffee by the harbour, or wandering through its charming lanes rather than chasing thrills – although Porthmeor is there if you fancy a surf, and there are plenty of other things to do in St Ives like boat trips to Seal Island and hiking to Zennor on the coast path.

Activities and Attractions

Newquay: If you’re after action-packed days, Newquay won’t disappoint!

The town is synonymous with surfing, and whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, there’s no shortage of surf schools ready to get you out on the water.

Beyond the waves, Newquay offers plenty of family-friendly attractions.

Newquay Zoo is a favourite for a day out with the kids, offering a chance to see everything from big cats to exotic birds.

The Blue Reef Aquarium, located right on the beach, lets you explore the wonders of marine life without getting your feet wet.

For those who prefer to stay active on land, the South West Coast Path boasts stunning coastal walks with breathtaking views.

St Ives: St Ives is where you go to feed the soul.

Known for its vibrant arts scene, the town is home to the Tate St Ives, a must-visit for art lovers, showcasing modern and contemporary art in a stunning setting overlooking the sea.

The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden is a deeper dive into the life and work of one of Britain’s most important 20th-century artists.

But it’s not all about art—St Ives also offers some of the most scenic coastal walks in Cornwall, with the path to Zennor being a particular highlight, offering rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and perhaps a seal or two if you’re lucky.

Boat trips are another popular activity, whether you’re heading out to see seals at Seal Island or just enjoying a peaceful cruise around the bay.

Dining and Nightlife

Newquay: When it comes to dining and nightlife, Newquay serves up plenty of options to keep the energy high.

The town encompasses a diverse range of eateries, from beachside cafes where you can grab a casual bite after a day on the sand, to seafood restaurants offering the freshest catch of the day with stunning ocean views.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to The Fish House at Fistral Beach, where locally sourced ingredients meet creative culinary flair. I also love The Boathouse, which serves street food on the beach by Newquay harbour.

Once the sun sets, Newquay’s nightlife comes alive.

The town is known for its vibrant bar scene, with plenty of pubs and clubs where you can dance the night away. Berties, Whiskers and Tom Thumb are among the favourites.

St Ives: St Ives’ dining and nightlife is definitely more on the relaxed side!

The town is dotted with charming cafes and fine-dining restaurants that focus on local produce and seasonal ingredients.

Porthminster Beach Cafe is a standout, offering exquisite seafood with unbeatable views of the bay.

For something truly special, book a table at The Alba, housed in a former lifeboat station, where you can enjoy modern British cuisine with a focus on Cornish ingredients.

As for nightlife, St Ives leans towards the mellow side.

Instead of clubs, you’ll find cosy pubs which are perfect for a quiet evening.

Accommodation

Newquay: Newquay encompasses a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style.

For those searching for a budget-friendly stay, there are a few hostels that cater to groups and solo travellers alike.

Families and groups will find a good selection of holiday rentals and mid-range hotels, many of which offer stunning sea views and easy access to Newquay’s main attractions.

If you’re after a bit more luxury, Newquay has you covered with upscale hotels like the Headland Hotel, offering elegant rooms, spa facilities, and breathtaking views of Fistral Beach.

Take a look at my post with the best places to stay in Newquay for more information.

St Ives: St Ives has a more intimate and charming accommodation, with a focus on boutique hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering cottages.

The town’s narrow, winding streets are lined with quaint, characterful places to stay, many of which boast stunning views over the harbour or out to sea.

For a romantic getaway, consider one of the town’s boutique hotels, such as the artistically inspired Trevose Harbour House or the luxurious Carbis Bay Hotel, which offers direct beach access and a touch of old-world elegance.

If you prefer a home-away-from-home experience, St Ives is known for its beautiful self-catering cottages.

Check out the best places to stay in St Ives here.

Accessibility and Transport

Newquay: Newquay is one of the most accessible destinations in Cornwall.

The town is served by Newquay Airport, which offers flights from major UK cities.

For those travelling by train, Newquay has its own station with connections to the mainline at Par, making it easy to reach from London, Bristol and other parts of the UK.

Newquay is also well-connected by road, with the A30 nearby.

Once in Newquay, getting around is easy, whether you’re on foot, renting a bike, or hopping on a local bus to explore the surrounding beaches and attractions.

Read my guide on how to get to Newquay.

St Ives: St Ives, while slightly more remote, is still quite easy to get to!

The town is famous for its scenic train route from St Erth, a breathtaking journey that takes you along the stunning Cornish coast.

Newquay Airport is within driving distance, and regular trains and buses connect St Ives to other parts of Cornwall.

However, parking in St Ives can be a challenge, especially during the busy summer months, as the town’s narrow streets weren’t built with modern traffic in mind!

Many visitors opt to use the park-and-ride service from nearby Lelant Saltings, which allows you to enjoy the town without the stress of finding a parking spot.

St Ives’ pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to explore on foot.

Read my guide on how to get to St Ives.

Crowds and Seasonality

Newquay: Newquay is a magnet for tourists, especially during the summer months, when the town is buzzing with activity.

The beaches fill up with surfers, families and sun-seekers, and the streets are alive with visitors enjoying the shops, cafes and nightlife.

If you love a lively atmosphere, Newquay in peak season offers exactly that.

However, with the crowds come the challenges—finding a spot on the beach, navigating busy streets, and booking accommodation well in advance are all part of the experience during the high season. But, because Newquay is a bit busier, it often doesn’t feel quite as packed as St Ives!

Newquay has a different, quieter charm in the off-season. The winter months see the town slow down, with fewer visitors and a more relaxed pace.

St Ives: St Ives also sees a surge of visitors during the summer and because of its small size, the town can feel jam-packed. In all honesty, I wouldn’t recommend visiting in August.

Visit Newquay if…

• you’re keen to check out nightlife
• you want to surf a lot
• you’re with kids who love attractions (there are more family-friendly attractions here)

Visit St Ives if…

• you want to enjoy relaxing and lazing on the beaches
• you’re keen to stay in a beautiful, classic Cornish settlement
• you’re into arts, culture, relaxed cafes and cosy pubs

What do locals say?

“It really depends what you’re after”, Frank Tremayne, local to St Ives, once told me. “I love St Ives and would always choose it. But I leave in the summer, as it just gets too busy. I’d recommend instead going to the larger towns like Newquay that have more infrastructure”.

“For kids, there’s more to do in Newquay” Sue Marsh, who lives in Newquay, told me. “But families might prefer to stay somewhere a bit quieter than central Newquay. I’d recommend the nearby beaches around Newquay, like Holywell or Watergate”.