Newquay is home to the famous Fistral Beach, known for its surfing opportunities. Here you can also find the Blue Reef Aquarium, an impressive exhibition of marine animals. The coastal town is associated with singer-songwriter Alex Parks, winner of the BBC's Fame Academy. Also, Richard Trevithick, an inventor and mining engineer who became known as a pioneer of steam-powered road and rail transport in the early 19th century, spent his last days in Newquay.