Top Family-Friendly Day Trips Near THE NICI Newquay

Location can really make or break a family holiday. The last thing frazzled parents want is to spend hours travelling between attractions when children are eager to get exploring and get bored easily. At THE NICI Newquay, many of Cornwall’s most popular family attractions are within easy reach, allowing you to spend less time in the car and more time making memories as a family.

Situated above Newquay’s beautiful coastline, you can easily access famous Cornish beaches, family attractions, countryside adventures and historic landmarks. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend break or a longer family getaway, you’ll have plenty of options for exciting days out.

Families also love returning to THE NICI after a busy day. Comfortable family accommodation provides space to unwind, while the swimming pools offer a chance for children to continue the fun long after leaving the beach. Parents can relax knowing everything they need is close at hand, from delicious dining options to family-friendly facilities designed to make holidays as stress-free as possible.

No family holiday in Newquay would be complete without a visit to the famous Fistral Beach!

Known as Cornwall’s surfing capital, families flock here throughout the year to enjoy the vast stretch of golden sand, incredible sea views and endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

Younger children can spend hours building sandcastles, digging moats and paddling in the shallows, while older kids and teenagers can try surfing lessons with one of the many local surf schools. Even complete beginners can experience the thrill of catching their first wave!

Parents will appreciate the excellent facilities nearby, while the beach’s expansive size means there’s usually plenty of room to spread out and enjoy a classic seaside day, without feeling overly packed in.

After an action-packed morning on the sand, it’s easy to return to THE NICI for a refreshing swim, family dinner and a well-earned evening of relaxation.

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If your family loves nature, wildlife and wide-open spaces, Crantock Beach should be high on your bucket list. Just a short distance from Newquay, this spectacular beach offers a quieter atmosphere than some of the area’s busier seaside spots in the summer months. The combination of soft sand, rolling dunes and the beautiful Gannel Estuary creates a playground for adventurous families.

Children can splash in the water, search for crabs among the rocks and watch local wildlife along the estuary. The calm surroundings make it particularly appealing for families with younger children who want plenty of room to explore safely without worry.

The area is also ideal for paddleboarding, beach games and family picnics for all to enjoy. Bring a classic bucket and spade, pack a delicious picnic and prepare for a day surrounded by some of Cornwall’s most stunning coastal scenery.

Located around 30 minutes from THE NICI Newquay, this iconic attraction combines adventure, education and entertainment in a way that appeals to every generation. Few family attractions in the UK really capture children’s imaginations quite like The Eden Project.

The enormous biomes are guaranteed to leave children wide-eyed with amazement. Inside, families can journey through a tropical rainforest complete with towering trees, exotic plants and awesome waterfalls. Elsewhere, Mediterranean landscapes transport visitors to different corners of the world without ever leaving Cornwall.

The Eden Project excels at making learning fun. Interactive exhibits, hands-on activities and seasonal events all encourage children to engage with nature and discover more about the environment. There are also outdoor play areas where younger visitors can burn off energy while parents take in the impressive surroundings.

Whether you’re travelling with daring toddlers, energetic primary school children or hard-to-impress teenagers, the Eden Project delivers a day out that combines excitement with discovery.

When it comes to family-friendly attractions near THE NICI, Newquay Zoo is always a popular choice. Close to the hotel, the 13-acre zoo offers families the chance to encounter animals from around the world without travelling far from the area.

Children can come face to face with everything from lions and lemurs to cute penguins, cheeky monkeys and impressive wallabies. The zoo’s engaging ranger talks and feeding sessions also provide opportunities for families to learn more about the animals, all while keeping younger visitors entertained throughout the day.

Importantly, one of the biggest advantages for families is the manageable size of the attraction. Unlike larger zoos that can feel overwhelming, Newquay Zoo allows families to explore at a relaxed pace while still seeing an impressive variety of wildlife. Children can also take advantage of the family play area and Tarzan Trail, making this a fun day out for all ages.

It’s also an excellent option when the weather isn’t perfect, making it a reliable addition to any Cornwall holiday itinerary.

For families with adventurous children and little boots, Tintagel Castle offers one of Cornwall’s most impressive days out. Situated on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, the 13^th century stronghold is tied to Richard, Earl of Cornwall, and is famously associated with the legend of King Arthur. The spectacular setting instantly captures children’s attention, transforming an ordinary day trip into an exciting journey through myth and history.

The adventure begins before you even reach the castle. The impressive footbridge (or gateway) connecting the cliffs creates a sense of anticipation as families make their way towards the ancient ruins. Once there, children can explore the remains of the medieval fortress while imagining knights, dragons and legendary quests. The dramatic coastal scenery adds to the excitement, with breathtaking views stretching across the Atlantic Ocean. When the tide’s out, families can even walk across the small sandy beach to reach Merlin’s Cave.

Parents will appreciate the opportunity to combine education, history and outdoor exploration in one memorable experience. Don’t forget comfortable footwear and a camera as the views alone make the journey worthwhile.

Looking for a family activity that combines exercise, adventure and beautiful scenery? The Camel Trail is an excellent choice for active families staying at THE NICI Newquay.

Although a 30-minute car drive away, families can rent bikes at our hotel and take them for the day. This flat, traffic-free cycling route follows a former railway line through some of Cornwall’s most picturesque countryside, three towns and passes alongside rivers, woodland and open countryside, creating a safe and enjoyable environment.

Encompassing nearly 20 miles of path, families can choose a route that suits their children’s abilities. While younger riders can enjoy shorter sections, older children may relish the challenge of covering longer distances! Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments, spot wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

After a day exploring Cornwall’s breathtaking landscapes by bike, there’s no better way to unwind than returning to THE NICI for a refreshing swim and a family meal together.

For dinner, enjoy fresh local seafood, delicate pasta, and flavourful sharing plates at our Italian restaurant, Amalfi’s. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, Tucker Rocks, our Italian-inspired café, offers a delicious selection of family-friendly favourites, from light bites and pizzas to indulgent treats. And no visit is complete without a scoop (or two) of our creamy Italian gelato!

Despite its name, Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm is one of the most enjoyable family attractions in Cornwall.

Set amongst 20-acre orchards, children can meet the charming farm animals at the venue, including chickens, pygmy goats, donkeys, pigs, and friendly shire horses. Depending on when you visit, all the family can also enjoy tractor rides, guided tours and hands-on experiences that provide a fascinating insight into Cornwall’s farming heritage.

The family-run attraction successfully blends education and entertainment, making it appealing to a wide range of ages. Parents can even sample local products such as Rattler Cornish Cider, while children stay occupied with activities designed specifically for younger visitors.

The relaxed atmosphere makes it particularly suitable for families seeking a slower-paced day out between beach adventures and major attractions. There are even regular seasonal events held at the farm, including the much-loved Little Orchard Cider & Music Festival in September.

Holywell Bay is one of the region’s true family favourite beaches. With its vast sandy shoreline, rolling dunes and dramatic coastal scenery, the beach feels like a giant outdoor playground.

Children have endless space to run, play and explore. The beach is perfect for energetic kids, from football and frisbee to participating in sandcastle competitions and family games, while rock pools provide opportunities to search for fascinating marine life.

The surrounding dunes create an extra sense of adventure, encouraging young explorers to climb, discover and enjoy the great outdoors!

Many visitors will recognise Holywell Bay from television and film productions, such as James Bond, but families tend to remember it for something much simpler: the freedom to enjoy a traditional beach day in one of Cornwall’s most beautiful locations.

Even in Cornwall, occasional rainy days can appear. Fortunately, there are plenty of indoor attractions nearby to keep children entertained whatever the weather.

Blue Reef Newquay Aquarium offers families the chance to dive beneath the surface and discover the fascinating marine life that calls Cornwall’s waters home. From daring sharks, lobsters, pufferfish, lionfish and the ever-popular clownfish, there is an array to be seen as you wander through the venue.

Interactive exhibits, colourful displays and engaging educational experiences all make this a favourite among younger visitors. Children can learn about local sea creatures while enjoying close-up encounters with a variety of marine species.

It’s a fun and informative attraction that works particularly well for families looking for a shorter excursion during unpredictable weather.

Few things excite young children more than pirates, and Pirates’ Quest Adventure Golf delivers plenty of swashbuckling fun!

This immersive attraction takes families on an interactive journey through Cornwall’s pirate history spanning 300 years, combining storytelling, themed environments and hands-on experiences.

From interactive exhibits and treasure hunts filled with excitement, the attraction appeals to children who love adventure, making it a fantastic option when outdoor plans need adjusting.

After several days of sightseeing and adventure, many families enjoy taking advantage of everything available at THE NICI itself.

Children can enjoy swimming and relaxing with the family, while parents appreciate the opportunity to slow down and recharge. Long breakfasts, leisurely lunches and quality family time often become some of the most memorable moments of a holiday.

With exceptional facilities on-site, not every day needs a packed itinerary to feel memorable. For parents looking to enjoy some well-deserved time together, our Kids’ Club offers the perfect space for curious minds and energetic kids.

From video game consoles and a library of books to arts, crafts, and a variety of engaging activities, children can immerse themselves in the things they love while making new friends and creating memories. Meanwhile, parents can relax, reconnect, and enjoy quality time together, knowing their little ones are happily entertained.

Things to do

One of the best things about staying with us is the variety of experiences available nearby.

Families staying longer can add Tintagel Castle, Holywell Bay and Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm to create a holiday packed with variety and excitement.

The beauty of Cornwall is that every family can create an itinerary that suits their children’s interests and energy levels.

Cornwall is one of the UK’s most exciting family holiday destinations, offering a unique combination of beaches, wildlife, outdoor adventures, historic attractions and world-famous landmarks.

By choosing THE NICI Newquay as your base, you’ll be perfectly placed to experience the very best the region has to offer.

From the golden sands of Fistral Beach and the natural beauty of Crantock to the wonders of the Eden Project and the legendary landscapes of Tintagel Castle, family adventures are never far away.

When the day’s exploring comes to an end, our hotel provides the perfect place to relax, recharge and start planning tomorrow’s adventure.