The Ultimate Beachfront Getaway | Fistral Beach Hotel and SPA Sea Views in Newquay, Cornwall
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Newquay is known as the surf capital of Cornwall, home to the iconic Fistral Beach which is one the best places to surf in the UK.
The town of Newquay has in recent years attracted a younger scene of digital nomads and entrepreneurs to open businesses including beautiful cafés, boutique shops and restaurants.
There has been a shift in Newquay from its perhaps less glamorous stag and hen do parties to a more chilled atmosphere, with visitors opting for relaxing getaways, wild Cornish adventures and more of an influence from surf culture.
With this shift of mindset for reasons to visit Newquay, a focus on great hospitality and unique stays in Cornwall have come to the forefront and we think we may have found one the best sea view hotels in Newquay.
Have you ever wondered what life by the sea would be like? Staying at Fistral Beach Hotel offers you a truly unique experience, sea views and easy access to the stunning Cornish coastline.
If you’re looking for more Cornwall inspiration, read our ultimate 10-day travel guide, best walks along the South West Coast Path and top things to do in Cornwall.
Fistral Beach Hotel
Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is 4 star adults-only hotel located in a prime location where you can enjoy views overlooking the nearby Fistral Beach.
The rooms are beautifully decorated, with many featuring sea views and a balcony where you can soak in the coastal scenery without having to leave the hotel.
If you’re looking for a nearby family-friendly alternative, only a stone’s throw away you’ll find Espalande Hotel which is its sister hotel, also boasting incredible views of Fistral Beach and a more affordable option.
We were kindly invited to stay at the Fistral Beach Hotel for a night. This guide will share what to expect if you plan to stay at the hotel, a review of the facilities and what to do nearby.
Where is Fistral Beach Hotel?
Fistral Beach Hotel is in Newquay, Cornwall opposite the iconic Fistral Beach. Fistral Beach is perfectly positioned to get Atlantic swells which create the best waves to surf.
The hotel faces north benefiting from incredible sunrise and sunset views from the front of the property of Fistral Beach Hotel. This modern hotel is in a great location for a beach holiday in Cornwall, within walking distance of Newquay and a few minutes walk to Fistral Beach.
Fistral Beach was first recorded as ‘Fistal’ in 1813 which comes from ‘bystel’ in Cornish which means foul water, bile or gall and could be a reference to the endless waves that hit the shores of Fistral.
What is Fistral Beach known for?
Fistral Beach is located in Newquay, Cornwall and is well know as one of the UK's top surfing destinations. It boasts consistent and powerful waves attracting crowds from across the world to compete in international surfing events.
Even if the main attraction at Fistral Beach is surfing, that’s not the only reason to visit! The beach has wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean with a variety of shops, restaurants and cafés which make it a great place to spend the day on the beach to sunbathe and swim.
A short walking distance from Fistral Beach is the town centre of Newquay, where you can wonder the streets and discover cute cafés, local shops and restaurants, make sure to read our guide all about the best shops in Newquay.
How to get to Fistral Beach Hotel?
By Plane
The nearest airport to Fistral Beach Hotel is Newquay Cornwall Airport, only a 20 minute drive by car. There are direct flights from London and other major cities in the UK.
There are car rental options once you land in Newquay Airport, or alternatively, you can get a taxi to take you to the hotel which is a beautiful scenic route along the coastline.
By Car
The easiest way to get to Fistral Beach Hotel is by car, the roads to Newquay are connected to the main roads and the route you’ll take is the M5 southwest, then the A30 towards Bodmin and take the exit to Newquay where you follow the A39 and A392.
Finally take the first exit at the roundabout towards Pentire onto Pentire Road, passing the golf course on your right and finally Esplanade Road where you’ll find Fistral Beach Hotel.
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
From London | 6 hours
From Bristol | 4.5- 5 hours
From Birmingham | 5 hours
The most efficient way to get to Fistral Beach Hotel from London by public transport is by train and then bus. The most direct route is to get the train to Penzance from London Paddington and get off at St Austell which will take 4 hours 20 mins.
From St Austell catch the bus to Newquay which takes 1 hour 15 mins and the nearest stop is Tower Road where the walk to the hotel takes 15 minutes, passing the golf course until you reach Esplanade Road where the hotel is located.
To reach Fistral Beach Hotel from Bristol, a combination of train and bus is the best option and will take around 5 hours in total.
The train from Bristol Temple Meads to St Austell and from St Austell to Newquay take the bus. When you arrive at Newquay, get off at Tower Road and walk 15 minutes to Fistral Beach Hotel.
HOW TO GET AROUND NEWQUAY?
Fistral Beach Hotel is in prime position for Newquay and allows you to reach most places nearby by foot including easy access to Fistral Beach, as well as local shops and restaurants. From the hotel, to reach the Newquay town centre by foot it will take around 20 minutes
There are nearby bike rental stores which are also a great way to explore a bit further from the hotel including stylish e-bikes from Ride On.
There are regular buses that depart from Fistral Bay Hotel which is next to the public toilets and bus line 58 runs every hour. Check the local bus times on the Go Cornwall website and download the app for real-time updates.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL?
Cornwall is a year-round destination, even though the majority of visitors opt for the busy summer months of July and August which we would recommend to avoid if you can visit out of the school holidays!
May and June are the best months to visit for warmer temperatures and the chance for good waves to get the ultimate Fistral beach experience. The best time to visit for the ultimate waves is during February for clean and consistent waves.
If you’re not keen to try surfing, May and June are perfect for relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun or walking along the South West Coast Path.
Autumn and Winter months bring cooler temperatures and more clean and consistent waves. Cosy up in the mornings, where you can watch the waves roll in along the beach from the comfort of your sea view room.
There are many exciting events throughout the year which are held on Fistral Beach including Boardmasters festival (August) and the British National Surf competition (November).
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE AT FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL?
The rooms at Fistral Beach Hotel are designed with a coastal influence, nautical-inspired textures fill the space and a cosy colour palette creates a calm atmosphere making it a dreamy setting to take in the surrounding Cornish seascapes.
There are a variety of rooms to choose from to suit your needs, choose from the Suite, Best, Sea View Balcony, Sea View, Standard and Economy rooms. We stayed in a Best room which has a balcony with beautiful sea views and the bathroom is also connected to the balcony.
WHAT FACILITIES ARE THERE AT FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL?
Fistral Beach Hotel emulates its scenic surroundings, drawing your gaze out across the horizon to be mesmerised by the never-ending waves.
The facilities at the hotel include an impressive sea view facing Dune Restaurant which offers a seasonal five-course tasting menu and an a la carte menu dedicated to showcasing local Cornish produce.
The Dune Restaurant was awarded two AA Rosettes ensuring high quality dishes that can be enjoyed whilst watching the sunset over Fistral Beach. Dinner is a must at the Dune Restaurant, experience local, fresh flavours accompanied by complimentary wines.
Whilst staying at Fistral Beach Hotel we also enjoyed breakfast, options include a continental spread of pastries, fruit and yoghurt. There is also the option to order porridge, eggs, full english and avocado and toast.
The indoor Spa facilities are ideal after a day out exploring or catching waves, take time to relax in the hot tub or warm up in the sauna. The spa offers treatments and an indoor pool with massage waterfalls.
If you fancy to have the place to yourself, book the spa for the evening for exclusive private access with a bottle of bubbles.
The relaxing lounge in the Bay Bar is the place to unwind whilst enjoying a coffee or cocktail and serves tasty light bites including salads, afternoon tea and delicious fish and chips.
The Bay Bar was recently refurbished and has been designed with natural elements including wood, fabrics and frames the coastal landscape outside.
Step outside to an extension of the Bay Bar which has spectacular views of Fistral Beach and is a must with a drink in hand whilst watching the sunset.
HOW DO I BOOK TO STAY AT FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL?
Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa offer several packages that include treatments, surf lessons and meals. Choose from the Fistral Essential Spa Break, Tasting Menu Break, Summer Serenity Spa Break, Surf and Stay, Yoga and Wild Swimming, Sea View Sunday, Christmas and New Year Breaks.
Alternatively, there is the option to create a bespoke package where you can choose which room and additional extras you would like included in your stay. Book a room at Fistral Beach Hotel online for current offers and best deals.
WHAT IS THERE TO DO NEAR FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL?
Fistral Beach
Book a Surfing lesson and experience world class surfing for yourself, even if you’re not an experienced surfer Fistral Beach is one of the best places to learn and you’ll be in good hands with a surf instructor!
Little Fistral Beach
A quieter spot from the popular Fistral Beach, Little Fistral offers relaxation between the rocky crags for sunbathing and watching the afternoon pass by. Swim in the nearby sheltered pools for a real taste of life by the sea.
Crantock Beach
Situated next to the Gannel Estuary, Crantock beach is a beautiful golden sandy beach framed by rolling sand dunes making it the perfect sunset spot.
Coasteering adventure
The best way to explore the coastline is to go on a coasteering adventure where you’ll jump off rocks, discover wildlife and learn all about this spectacular coastline in the best way possible.
Polly Joke Beach
In the summer months, Polly Joke beach comes into bloom surrounded by fields of Poppies which is an amazing sight with a sea of red set against the stunning Cornish coastline.
Bedruthan Steps
A short drive north of Newquay, Bedruthan Steps is a must whilst staying in the area. Park at the National Trust car park and walk to the viewpoint to see the rocks from above.
Shopping in Newquay
Newquay is only a short walk from the hotel and has a great food and shopping scene. Make sure you read our shopping guide to Newquay to help you choose which shops you must visit!
Walk along the South West Coast Path
The beautiful South West Coast Path (SWCP) is a 630 mile long route starting in Minehead and finishes in Poole Harbour. The SWCP is close to the hotel making it ideal to a short walk along this stunning route, read our best walks along the SWCP to get some walking inspiration.
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Looking for more Cornwall inspo?
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to refuel after a day on the waves, Newquay’s food scene has options for everyone. Enjoy pizza while watching the sunset on the beach, savour gourmet meals, or delight in a traditional afternoon tea—all of this and more can be found in Newquay.