A Walk to Remember: Spotting Seals in Newquay, Cornwall
There’s something magical about a walk along the Cornish coastline — the sound of the waves crashing, the scent of the sea breeze, and the panoramic views that stretch for miles. But what made our recent walk in January 2025 from Headland Road, Newquay unforgettable wasn’t just the stunning scenery, but the surprise encounter with some of Cornwall's most charming residents: seals.
Newquay is known for its golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and world-class surf. Our holiday home, 14 Azure, overlooks the beautiful Fistral Beach making it the perfect base for exploring this picturesque part of Cornwall. As we set off along the coastal path the weather was stunning — bright blue skies on a crisp January day. The coastline here is breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. This is a place where the beauty of the land and sea merge seamlessly, and it’s easy to get lost in the serenity.
We had been walking for a while, enjoying the scenery, when something caught my eye — a sleek, dark shape breaking the surface of the water. I stopped in my tracks, trying to make out what it was. As the shape popped up again, it became clear: a seal! It was swimming calmly in the water just off the shore, its head bobbing up and down as it scanned the surrounding area. We watched in awe as the seal glided gracefully through the water. It was fascinating to see this elusive creature up close, as seals are often shy and tend to stay further out at sea. It was a special sight, one I felt incredibly fortunate to witness. Our curiosity piqued, we continued our walk along the coastline, eager to see if there were more seals to be found. Not long after, I came to Porth Joke — a natural viewpoint that offers incredible views of the coast. From here, I could see a small colony of about 80 seals sunning themselves on the beach below.
The colony at Porth Joke is one of the most well-known spots to see seals around Newquay, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of sheltered coves and rocky outcrops makes it the perfect home for these marine mammals.
If you’re ever in Cornwall, be sure to take the time to explore the coastline around Newquay. Whether you’re walking, hiking, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the sea, the area offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. And who knows, you might just be lucky enough to spot some seals along the way, making your Cornish adventure even more special.
It is possible to either walk to Porth Joke directly from the apartment via Crantock or by a circular walk starting at Holwell Bay.
Azure is located just by the South West Coast Path and all the information about the various walks this has to offer can be found at www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk.
Another app you may want to download is www.iwalkcornwall.co.uk.
This app lists over 300 walks throughout Cornwall ranging from 2 to 13 miles, graded by steepness and with clear directions provided.
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There’s something magical about a walk along the Cornish coastline — the sound of the waves crashing, the scent of the sea breeze, and the panoramic views that stretch for miles. But what made our recent walk in January 2025 from Headland Road, Newquay unforgettable wasn’t just the stunning scenery, but the surprise encounter with some of Cornwall's most charming residents: seals.
Newquay is known for its golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and world-class surf. Our holiday home, 14 Azure, overlooks the beautiful Fistral Beach making it the perfect base for exploring this picturesque part of Cornwall. As we set off along the coastal path the weather was stunning — bright blue skies on a crisp January day. The coastline here is breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. This is a place where the beauty of the land and sea merge seamlessly, and it’s easy to get lost in the serenity.
We had been walking for a while, enjoying the scenery, when something caught my eye — a sleek, dark shape breaking the surface of the water. I stopped in my tracks, trying to make out what it was. As the shape popped up again, it became clear: a seal! It was swimming calmly in the water just off the shore, its head bobbing up and down as it scanned the surrounding area. We watched in awe as the seal glided gracefully through the water. It was fascinating to see this elusive creature up close, as seals are often shy and tend to stay further out at sea. It was a special sight, one I felt incredibly fortunate to witness. Our curiosity piqued, we continued our walk along the coastline, eager to see if there were more seals to be found. Not long after, I came to Porth Joke — a natural viewpoint that offers incredible views of the coast. From here, I could see a small colony of about 80 seals sunning themselves on the beach below.
The colony at Porth Joke is one of the most well-known spots to see seals around Newquay, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of sheltered coves and rocky outcrops makes it the perfect home for these marine mammals.
If you’re ever in Cornwall, be sure to take the time to explore the coastline around Newquay. Whether you’re walking, hiking, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the sea, the area offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. And who knows, you might just be lucky enough to spot some seals along the way, making your Cornish adventure even more special.
It is possible to either walk to Porth Joke directly from the apartment via Crantock or by a circular walk starting at Holwell Bay.
Azure is located just by the South West Coast Path and all the information about the various walks this has to offer can be found at www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk.
Another app you may want to download is www.iwalkcornwall.co.uk.
This app lists over 300 walks throughout Cornwall ranging from 2 to 13 miles, graded by steepness and with clear directions provided.