Secret Season: Fistral
Welcome back to our Secret Season series, where we explore the lesser-known magic of Cornwall’s iconic shorelines during the quieter, cooler season. This time, we’re heading to Fistral Beach and the surrounding vibrant surf town of Newquay, making the most of dramatic headlands which complement cosy harbourside ambience, murals dotted on buildings around the town and a cool, forward-thinking food and drink scene.
Discover:
- Coastal walks around Fistral headland to Newquay harbour
- Sea swims and pop-up saunas
- Independent shops perfect for winter treasures
- The best food and drink spots, from street food by the sea to a hidden coffee yard
Activities
Winter walks
Wait for low tide and take the walk around Fistral headland between Newquay harbour and Fistral Beach, passing rocky coves home to grey seals. Don’t miss the secret art display in the Old Lifeboat Station, where you can take a peep at the work of Nicholas Williams through the porthole.
Breathe in fresh air on the headland, savour the chill of a crisp beer or warm up with a hot chocolate at Fistral Beach Bar. Wherever you choose as your surf-watching spot, you’re guaranteed to see a handful of pros daring to head ‘out back’ and ride the bigger waves.
Olla Hiki Pop-Up Sauna
For the ultimate post-swim or post-walk winter warmer, book a 30 minute session in the Olla Hiki pop-up sauna. Currently at The Boathouse at Newquay harbour, this wood-fired sauna offers an opportunity for hot and cold therapy by mixing your session with interludes in the ice bath or a quick run into the harbour water.
Harbour swim
Join the locals for a winter swim in the sheltered waters of Newquay Harbour. At high tide, you’re guaranteed to see swimmers wrapped in dryrobes and woolly hats, grinning from a post-swim high.
Food & Drink
Fistral’s food scene buzzes even in the off-season, with hidden gems and fine-dining classics side by side.
Cribbar Yard
Tucked away off the main high street in Newquay, this vibrant hub is home to House of Glass coffee shop for artisanal brews with the local surfer crew, and Barouche wine bar, where the knowledgeable bartenders will recommend a drink to pair with your sharing plates.
The Fish House
Just steps from the beach, The Fish House is an acclaimed seafood restaurant offering an intimate dining experience with dishes inspired by the daily catch. Share sea bass tacos with friends for lunch, or enjoy an evening meal with Indonesian and Korean inspired plates.
The Boathouse Street Food
A collection of street food vendors gathered by the water, The Boathouse street food is perfect for sharing plates or grabbing a quick bite. From loaded fries to steaming bowls of ramen, the pop ups always change and there’s always something for everyone.
Rick Stein Fistral
Rick Stein at Fistral serves fish and chips and curries with a laid-back feel and stellar sea views.
Box & Barber Coffeehouse
Start your day at Box & Barber, where good coffee, breakfast bowls and nourishing smoothies will fuel your beach adventures.
Shopping
Fistral’s boutiques and shops are ideal for picking up unique finds or treating yourself to a winter wardrobe refresh.
The Good Lyfe
A zero-waste store that combines sustainability with style. At The Good Lyfe, stock up on eco-friendly homeware, pantry goods, or thoughtful gifts.
Bonbon
A chic boutique offering contemporary fashion pieces with a coastal edge. Bonbon is perfect for browsing or finding something special to wear out.
Ann’s Cottage
Ann’s Cottage is a staple of Cornish surf culture. This shop is your go-to for surfwear, beach gear and cosy winter layers.
FatFace
Known for its comfortable and stylish clothing, FatFace is great for seasonal staples from knitwear to waterproofs.
Discover Fistral retreats seconds from the sea this Secret Season…
Stay for two free nights
Stay for longer with our two free nights offer. From November until Easter (excluding school holidays), book three or five nights and enjoy two extra nights free in selected retreats. Take your time to experience wild waves and fresh food and drink.
