St Ives Beaches

Overview

St Ives is rightly celebrated as one of the UK's top coastal destinations, famed for its cluster of beautiful sandy beaches. Blessed with exceptionally clear waters and a unique quality of light that has long attracted artists, the town offers easy access to several distinct beaches, all within walking distance. Whether you're seeking family fun, surfing waves, or simply a stunning spot to relax, St Ives provides an idyllic seaside setting.

Among the highlights are the classic crescent bay of Porthminster, perfect for families with its calm waters, and the Atlantic-facing Porthmeor Beach, the prime location for surfing, conveniently situated beneath the Tate St Ives gallery. Nearby, the internationally recognised Carbis Bay Beach offers a touch of glamour. For dog owners, Bamaluz Beach provides a welcome year-round sandy spot right near the harbour. These, along with the charming, sheltered cove of Porthgwidden, form the heart of St Ives' beach scene.

Visitors should be aware that the tides significantly influence the beaches here. Low tide reveals vast expanses of golden sand and fascinating rock pools, especially at Porthmeor Beach and Porthgwidden, while high tide can cover much of the Harbour beach and narrow others considerably. It's always wise to check the tide times before heading out. While the main beaches are understandably popular, exploring the nearby coast path can lead to quieter coves.

St Ives offers a remarkable variety of coastal experiences packed into a small area. The combination of golden sands, generally excellent water quality – though refreshingly cool for swimming – and the vibrant town backdrop makes it a truly special place. Remember to be mindful of the local gulls, especially when enjoying food near the harbour or on the sands. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal gems in the area, explore our full list of St Ives beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is St Ives good for a beach holiday?

Yes, St Ives is renowned as a top UK beach holiday destination. It offers several beautiful, distinct sandy beaches within easy walking distance of the town centre, catering to families, couples, and surfers. The town itself has a vibrant art scene, great restaurants, and charming streets, complementing the beach experience.

Is the sea in St Ives warm enough to swim in?

The sea temperature around St Ives is typical for the UK Atlantic coast, meaning it's quite chilly, even in summer (peaking around 16-18°C / 61-64°F). Many people do swim, especially from June to September, often wearing wetsuits for longer periods in the water. The water quality is generally excellent, and the clarity can be stunning.

Which St Ives beaches are dog friendly?

Dog restrictions apply on most main St Ives beaches during peak season. Generally, from 15th May to 30th September between 10 am and 6 pm, dogs are banned from Porthmeor, Porthminster, Porthgwidden, and the main Harbour beach (some exceptions apply at the harbour). Carbis Bay also has restrictions. Bamaluz Beach (between Porthgwidden and the Harbour) is dog-friendly year-round. Always check the latest Cornwall Council signage as rules can change.

Is parking difficult near St Ives beaches?

Yes, parking in St Ives, especially near the beaches during peak season (summer and school holidays), can be very challenging and expensive. Car parks fill up early. Consider using the Park and Ride service from St Erth or Lelant Saltings, arriving very early, or staying within walking distance of the town and beaches.

What's the best area to stay in St Ives for easy beach access?

Staying 'Downalong' (the old fishermen's quarter between the harbour and Porthmeor/Porthgwidden) puts you steps from several beaches but involves narrow streets and limited parking. Staying closer to Porthminster offers easier access to that beach and the train station. Accommodation higher up the town often has great views but requires walking downhill (and back up!) to the beaches.

Porthmeor Beach

Porthgwidden Beach

Porthminster

Porthmeor or Porthminster - which beach is better?

It depends on what you're looking for. Porthmeor faces the Atlantic, gets more waves, and is popular for surfing and bodyboarding; it also backs onto the Tate St Ives. Porthminster is more sheltered, generally calmer, making it very popular with families with young children, and it's conveniently located near the train station.

Porthmeor Beach

Porthminster

Are the beaches in St Ives sandy?

Yes, all the main beaches in St Ives (Porthmeor, Porthminster, Porthgwidden, Harbour Beach) and nearby Carbis Bay boast beautiful stretches of golden or pale sand. The quality of the sand is often praised by visitors.

How much do the tides affect the beaches in St Ives?

Tides significantly impact St Ives beaches. Harbour Beach almost disappears at high tide, while Porthmeor and Porthminster become much narrower. Low tide reveals expansive stretches of sand, rock pools (especially Porthmeor and Porthgwidden), and allows walking between some areas (like Harbour Beach and Porthminster at very low tide). Always check tide times before your visit.

Porthmeor Beach

Porthminster

Porthgwidden Beach

Can you walk between the main St Ives beaches?

Yes, the main town beaches – Harbour Beach, Porthgwidden, Porthmeor, and Porthminster – are all within relatively easy walking distance of each other and the town centre. You can walk around the headland known as 'The Island' to get between Porthmeor and Porthgwidden, and through the town streets to connect others. It's a compact area.

Porthgwidden Beach

Porthmeor Beach

Porthminster

Which beach is best for surfing in St Ives?

Porthmeor Beach is the main surfing beach in St Ives. It picks up Atlantic swells and has surf schools and hire facilities right on the beach. Conditions vary, but it's the go-to spot for surfing and bodyboarding.

Porthmeor Beach

Are St Ives beaches accessible?

Accessibility varies. Porthminster has relatively level access from the train station end and offers beach wheelchair hire. Porthmeor has ramp access at one end but also steps. Porthgwidden and Harbour Beach involve some slopes or steps from the town. Carbis Bay has steep paths or steps unless accessing via the hotel. It's best to check specific access guides for individual needs.

Are there any quieter beaches near St Ives?

While St Ives' main beaches get very busy, you can find quieter spots. Bamaluz Beach (between Porthgwidden and the Harbour) is small and often overlooked. Clodgy Point Beach (west of Porthmeor along the coast path) is more remote and requires a walk. Alternatively, exploring further along the coast path towards Zennor or towards Hayle can reveal less crowded coves, though access can be challenging.

Bamaluz Beach

Are seagulls a problem on St Ives beaches?

Seagulls, particularly herring gulls, can be bold and are known for snatching food on beaches and around the harbour in St Ives. Visitors should be mindful when eating outdoors, avoid feeding the gulls (which encourages them), and secure any food waste properly. While part of the seaside environment, their behaviour can be a nuisance.

St Ives vs Carbis Bay beaches?

St Ives offers multiple beaches (Porthmeor, Porthminster, etc.) right in a bustling town with lots of amenities, shops, and galleries. Carbis Bay is primarily one large, beautiful, sheltered beach, often considered quieter than St Ives' main beaches, dominated by the Carbis Bay Hotel estate but publicly accessible. It's about a 25-minute walk or short train ride from St Ives.

Porthmeor Beach

Porthminster

Carbis Bay Beach

Can you hire things like deckchairs or paddleboards on St Ives beaches?

Yes, equipment hire is available, particularly during the main season. Porthminster beach often has deckchair, windbreak, and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) hire. Porthmeor beach has surf schools offering surfboard, bodyboard, and wetsuit hire. Availability can vary depending on the beach, time of year, and weather conditions.

Porthminster

Porthmeor Beach