Padstow's main beaches are between the town and the estuary mouth.  All are quite safe although there are no lifeguards.  They start within 5 minutes walk of the town.

Rock's beaches are great too, they are easily accessible from the ferry that runs between Padstow and Rock.

There are also many beaches on the coast between Padstow and Newquay.  Each has its own character and most all easily accessible by road or by the 556 bus.

Padstow is surrounded by stunning scenery.  Many people enjoy walking the around the local area.  You can walk the South West Coast Path taking in the dramatic Atlantic coastline or along  the banks of the Estuary following the Camel Trail towards Wadebridge or the "Saint's Way" from Padstow to Fowey.  Many of the local footpaths have been levelled and surfaced and are suitable for those with limited mobility or with wheelchairs.  

There are numerous ways to explore the river.  You can take a short speedboat ride around the estuary at high speed.  If you like gentler boats, the Jubilee Queen offers a one hour trip with commentary.   

A pod of dolphins regularly visits the harbour.  The speedboats take spectators out to see them at a more leisurely pace.   

For more information check out www.padstowboattrips.com  

Cornwall's premier attraction, the Eden Project, is only 30 minutes drive from Padstow.  No visit to Cornwall is complete without a trip here.  

Why not visit the nearby historic port of Charlestown on the same day, you may recognise the harbour from many films and dramas including Mansfield Park, The Three Musketeers, Moll Flanders, Rebecca and the Onedin Line.  The Shipwreck & Heritage Centre is interesting and worth a visit.

The old railway line from Padstow to Bodmin has been turned into the famous Camel Trail.  Why not hire a bike from Padstow Cycle Hire and cycle either to Wadebridge (approx 5 miles) or Bodmin (approx 15 miles).   

The Camel Valley vineyard can be accessed from the trail.  Why not stop off on your way past.

Learn to Surf!  There are two surf schools operating from the nearby bays.  Harlyn Surf School  is a long established school and comes highly recommended.  

Padstow Surf School is newer but caters for smaller groups and can offer one on one tuition.   

Padstow is home to the National Lobster Hatchery.  This is an important project that rears lobsters and releases them into the sea.  You can see lobsters at all stages of development here.  It is very educational and is fun and interactive for children.  A visit is recommended.   

No visit to Padstow would be complete without a meal at one of its many restaurants.  Padstow's famous seafood chef, Rick Stein, has 3 restaurants and a fish and chip shop in town. If you have time, why not take a course at his Seafood School.  

For a list of Padstow's restaurants follow the eating out link.

If you enjoy dining, try out Jamie Oliver's Fifteen restaurant at nearby Watergate Bay.  As well as quality dining, the restaurant offers fantastic views across the beach.  Watch the sun set into the Atlantic mid way through your dinner!  

The family owned Elizabethan Manor, Prideaux Place is also well worth a visit.  The house will be familiar to some as the setting for many films and dramas whilst  the gardens and deer park appeal to all.  

Padstow has its own museum, currently housed in the Institute.  Although only small, it has a wealth of information about Padstow's sea faring past.  It should be the first port of call for anyone wanting to learn about Padstow or trace their family history.  For more information on  the history of Padstow check out  the museum website.  Admission is only £1 and children get in free.