The Esplanade Hotel Blog

May is National Walking Month—a time to lace up your walking boots, breathe in the fresh sea air, and explore the stunning natural beauty that surrounds us. Here at The Esplanade Hotel in Newquay, we're lucky to be perfectly positioned on the doorstep of some of the most spectacular walking routes in Cornwall. Whether you're planning a solo adventure, a family stroll, or a dog-friendly holiday, there's a path waiting for you.

Coastal Walks with a View: The South West Coast Path

One of the highlights of walking in Newquay is the South West Coast Path, a 630-mile national trail that hugs the coastline from Somerset to Dorset. While you might not tackle the entire route, the section around Newquay offers cliff-top paths, secluded beaches, and unforgettable ocean views—and best of all, the South West Coast Path is dog-friendly!

Our Top Picks:

• Porth Beach to Watergate Bay
  A scenic 2-mile stretch that’s great for all levels. Expect panoramic sea views, dramatic cliffs, and dog-friendly beaches along the way.
• The Esplanade Hotel to Crantock via the Gannel Estuary
  From The Esplanade Hotel, take the coastal route around Pentire Headland to the Fern Pit Café & Ferry. Cross the tidal Gannel Estuary to reach Crantock Beach—a haven for walkers and their four-legged companions. Low tide reveals sandy stretches perfect for a picnic or a paddle.
• Lusty Glaze Beach to Fistral Beach
  Start at Lusty Glaze Beach, follow the coastal path south, passing Towan Head and enjoying views of the Atlantic. This 1.5-mile route takes you through scenic coves and quieter beaches, finishing at Fistral Beach.

We know your dogs are part of the adventure, which is why The Esplanade Hotel is proud to be dog-friendly—and so is much of the Cornish coastline!

Dog-Walking Favourites:

• Fistral Beach to Towan Headland
  Just steps from the hotel, this route combines golden sands with a gentle cliff-top stroll. Fistral Beach is dog-friendly year-round, making it a perfect starting point.
• Porth Joke (Polly Joke)
  Tucked away between Crantock and Holywell Bay, this unspoiled cove is peaceful and picturesque. Enjoy a circular walk-through meadows filled with wildflowers in May.
• Holywell Bay to Perranporth
  A longer coastal ramble for the more adventurous, this 5-mile trek is dog-friendly, wild, and wonderfully photogenic. Don’t forget water and treats for your furry friend!

Stay & Stroll

After a day exploring Cornwall’s rugged coastlines and peaceful countryside, head back to The Esplanade Hotel for a warm welcome, comfy rooms, and delicious, locally sourced food. Our dog-friendly rooms and relaxed atmosphere mean your whole family—dogs included—can unwind in style.