Towan Beach is close to the centre of Newquay, one of the liveliest resorts in Cornwall, at the bottom of Beach Road, a steeply sloping hill. The beach is bordered on the western edge by the harbour and at the East by a tall rocky outcrop called 'the Island' which is connected to the mainland by a suspension footbridge. At low tide Towan links up with the other Newquay beaches to the East of it - Great Western and Tolcarne - forming one long continuous sandy strip.

Like many beaches in Cornwall, Towan is lifeguarded during the summer months. Surfing is prohibited in summer (though you can walk north along the beach towards Great Western) and the bay is sheltered from the rougher Atlantic swells, making it a popular choice for families with young children. Cornwall's Sea Life Centre is right on the beach and Newquay's numerous and varied other attractions are all just a short walk away.