In the Spotlight... Fistral

July 04, 2018

Let us take you on a whistle-stop tour of our favourite UK holiday destinations. Fistral Beach, near Newquay, is the home of UK surfing. To find out more, we’ll hand over to Stu, the store manager at FatFace Fistral…

Stu, store manager at FatFace Fistral, on the beach at Fistral with his son, in FatFace clothes

If you want great surfing in the UK, come to Fistral Bay. Our friendly, laid-back beach is big enough for everyone to enjoy – whether you’re a serious surfer, a total novice or a spectator at one of our big events. Down here we’ve got the classic Cornish beach lifestyle you love, with an irresistible dash of California cool thrown into the mix. Come and experience it for yourself!

Store manager of the FatFaceFistral store's son, playing at Fistral beach wearing FatFace clothes

Everything you need for a day on the beach

Our FatFace store is in the Fistral Beach Complex right on the sand. There’s a great atmosphere. The complex has everything you need for a day in the surf – from FatFace beachwear and clothes to surf schools, Cornish pasty stalls and Rick Stein’s fish and chips. The whole set up is lively and fun. You can dip in and out while you’re on the beach, then come back in the evening for laid-back drinks and food as the sun goes down. Newquay is just a short walk away and here you’ll find more lovely beaches, a busy harbour and lots of shops and restaurants.

FatFace clothes being worn on Fistral beach, Cornwall

Top class UK surfing events

There are some big events to enjoy during the summer. First up in July is the UK Pros Night Surf. The whole beach is floodlit for the competitive surfing, and there’s also live music and fireworks. The atmosphere is amazing and we’ll all be there. In August, there’s Boardmasters. We’ll have amazing pro surfing right here on the beach – plus skateboarding and BMX competitions. Then up in Newquay, there’s the Boardmasters music festival with brilliant headline acts.

Surfing for beginners

Fistral has a great reputation for surfing, whatever your ability. Don’t just look at the big championships here. This is also the perfect place for first timers. The beach is divided into different areas depending on your chosen activity and ability – there are lots of lifeguards and it feels safe and welcoming. Book some lessons with a surf school and you’ll be surprised how far you’ll come in just one session. Even a total beginner can usually expect to ride a small wave by the end of their first lesson. Bodyboarding is a great way to get your confidence up, whatever your age or fitness level. Hire a wetsuit to keep you warm and head to our special area for swimming and bodyboarding. We’re all keen surfers at FatFace Fistral, so pop in for some advice!

A couple of paddleboarders hitting the waves in Fistral, Cornwall

The day-to-night beach scene

We all love coming back to Fistral Beach in the evening. The atmosphere is amazing and we get the best sunsets. The vibe here is super casual – think shorts, flip-flops and surf boards. After spending the day in a wetsuit, it’s great to change before heading back to the beach for drinks and food. You’ll feel at home here in chino shorts and a printed shirt, or cropped trousers and a pretty cami. You’ll often find us at the Stable after work drinking cider and having a pizza. If you’d rather walk into Newquay, then there are lots of great places to eat near the harbour – say hello to the inquisitive resident seals while you’re there! Afterwards, unwind with a leisurely stroll up out of town. We love the views from the lookout point at Huer’s Hut.

FatFace clothes shown off on a beach in Fistral, Cornwall

There are loads of printed shirts to discover too; check out our men’s and boys’ styles right here. And check out our store finder to discover FatFace stores all over the UK!

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