Lusty Glaze

## The spot Lusty Glaze is a sheltered cove tucked between cliffs just east of Newquay on the north Cornish coast. It is tiny compared to Fistral or Watergate, sitting at the bottom of a steep staircase cut into the rock. The small sandy beach produces gentle, forgiving waves that rarely get above chest height due to the protection from the headlands. It is a surf school and beginner venue rather than a performance spot. ## When it works Needs a moderate westerly swell to wrap into the cove. Works on all tides. The headlands filter out the raw power so you need a decent swell running for anything to get in. An easterly wind is offshore but the sheltered nature means light winds from any direction are fine. Year-round but most consistent October through April. ## Where to sit The bay is small with one or two peaks at most. The waves reform gently across the sandy bottom. Position yourself in the centre of the cove for the most consistent waves. The inside section produces perfect learner whitewater. ## Hazards Very safe. The enclosed nature limits currents, the sandy bottom is forgiving, and the waves lack power. The steep staircase access is the main inconvenience. Rocks at the cliff edges should be avoided. Extremely popular with swimmers and families in summer so watch for people in the water. ## Parking and access Park in Newquay town and walk to the cliff top, then descend a long, steep staircase to the beach. The staircase is the main barrier to access (and also limits crowds). The beach itself has a bar/restaurant and some facilities at beach level. ## The crowd Surf schools and beginners dominate. The small size means even a few surf school groups can fill the lineup. Serious surfers do not bother coming here as the waves lack quality. If you want a gentle, unchallenging session in a beautiful setting, this works. For performance surfing, go to Fistral. ## Local tips Lusty Glaze is best thought of as a beginner venue or a place to take the family for a gentle paddle. If you can surf at all, you will quickly outgrow it. The bar on the beach is pleasant for a post-session drink. The staircase keeps it quieter than it would otherwise be. If Lusty has waves, Fistral and Watergate will be pumping.