With seven beaches, and picturesque harbour, St Ives is the jewel of the westcountry.
Families love the safe beaches, the azure blue sea of the bay, the tiny cobbled streets and hidden corners waiting to be explored. Many of the beaches have small car parks near by, but St Ives is very popular, causing great demand on parking spaces. The best option being the main car park at the top of the town.
Porthminster Beach is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in St Ives, Cornwall, and a key highlight for anyone enjoying holidays in St Ives. Located on the eastern side of the town, just a short walk from the train station and harbour area. This Blue Flag Award winning beach offers an impressive combination of soft golden sand, clear blue water, and panoramic coastal views across St Ives Bay. Its sheltered position and gentle slope into the sea make it especially popular with families, swimmers, and those looking for a more relaxed beach experience.
Unlike the more rugged surfing beaches nearby, Porthminster Beach is known for its calm, inviting waters. The beach is partially protected from Atlantic swells, which helps create safer swimming conditions during the main holiday season. This makes it an ideal choice for families with children, as well as visitors who prefer paddling, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shoreline. The soft sand stretches in a wide curve, offering plenty of space even during busy summer months.
One of the standout features of Porthminster Beach is its stunning natural setting. From the beach, visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views across the turquoise waters of St Ives Bay, stretching towards Godrevy Lighthouse and the wider Cornish coastline. The surrounding hills, covered in greenery and dotted with houses, create a postcard-perfect backdrop that enhances the feeling of being in a peaceful coastal paradise.
Porthminster Beach is also well known for its excellent facilities, which add to its appeal as a top holiday destination in St Ives. Visitors will find beach cafés and restaurants located just above the sand, offering freshly prepared food, local seafood, and refreshments with spectacular sea views. Sunbeds and parasols are often available for hire during peak season, allowing visitors to relax in comfort while enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
The beach is also a popular starting point for coastal walks. From here, visitors can follow scenic paths around the headland towards St Ives harbour or explore further along the South West Coast Path. These walks provide breathtaking views and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding coastline. The combination of beach access and walking routes makes Porthminster Beach an ideal location for both relaxation and exploration.
Throughout the year, Porthminster Beach maintains a calm and welcoming atmosphere. In summer, it becomes a vibrant hub of activity, filled with families, swimmers, and holidaymakers enjoying the sun. In quieter seasons, it offers a peaceful escape where visitors can enjoy long walks along the sand and watch the changing tides and light across the bay.
Overall, Porthminster Beach is a standout destination within St Ives, offering the perfect balance of natural beauty, safety, and convenience. It plays a major role in what makes holidays in St Ives so appealing, providing visitors with a classic Cornish beach experience in one of the UK's most scenic coastal settings.
Porthminster Beach in St ives - looking towards Harbour Beach and the Island
Only exposed as the tide recedes, Lambeth Walk beach is not very well know, despite being adjacent to the harbour. At low tide Lambeth Walk beach and the harbour beach combine and occasionally it connects to Porthminster beach. The beach is named after the popular 1930s dance - "The Lambeth Walk". The beach is the ONLY YEAR ROUND DOG FRIENDLY BEACH in St Ives.
The area sometimes informally referred to by visitors as “Lambeth Walk” in St Ives is closely associated with the charming harbour-side streets and walkways around the Downalong district and the edge of St Ives Harbour. While not an official beach name, this part of St Ives captures the atmosphere of the town's historic waterfront, where narrow lanes open out onto sandy edges at low tide and traditional fishing cottages line the winding streets.
This part of St Ives is one of the most atmospheric locations for holidays in St Ives, as it sits at the heart of the old fishing community. The harbour area nearby transforms throughout the day depending on the tide. At low tide, sandy areas appear beside the harbour wall, creating small beach-like spaces where visitors can sit, relax, and enjoy the unique coastal scenery. These informal sandy patches give the impression of multiple small “hidden beaches” woven into the town itself.
The surrounding Downalong area is one of the oldest parts of St Ives and is known for its narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages, and traditional Cornish character. This historic district is just moments away from the main harbour and is often where visitors experience the most authentic side of the town. Its proximity to the water means that holidaymakers are never far from the sea, with the sound of waves and seagulls always present in the background.
Walking through this area offers a true sense of St Ives' heritage. Fishermen once lived and worked here, and many of the buildings still reflect that maritime history. Today, the area is home to galleries, small cafés, holiday cottages, and boutique shops, making it a vibrant yet peaceful part of the town. It is particularly popular with visitors staying in central accommodation who want immediate access to both the harbour and nearby beaches.
From this location, visitors can easily explore St Ives Harbour, Porthmeor Beach, and Porthminster Beach within a short walking distance. The coastal paths and winding streets create a natural flow between town and sea, which is one of the defining features of St Ives as a holiday destination.
Overall, while "Lambeth Walk Beach" is not an official beach in St Ives, the area it likely refers to represents the charming harbour-side environment and historic streets that make St Ives such a unique and desirable place to visit. It reflects the blend of coastal scenery, heritage, and everyday seaside life that defines holidays in St Ives.
Harbour beach in St Ives
Harbour Beach in St Ives is one of the most charming and easily accessible beaches in this iconic Cornish seaside town. Located directly in the centre of St Ives, it sits beside the working harbour and forms part of the town's historic heart. Unlike the larger surfing beaches nearby, Harbour Beach offers a more sheltered and traditional seaside experience, making it especially popular with families, couples, and visitors who want to stay close to the town's amenities.
One of the defining features of Harbour Beach is its unique position. At low tide, a wide stretch of golden sand is revealed right in front of the harbour wall, creating a safe and relaxed beach environment. Children often play here in the shallow water, building sandcastles or paddling while adults enjoy the view of fishing boats, yachts, and the surrounding colourful buildings that line the waterfront. As the tide comes in, the beach becomes smaller, but the atmosphere remains lively and scenic, with the harbour always at the centre of activity.
Harbour Beach is also one of the best places in St Ives to experience the town's authentic character. It is surrounded by narrow cobbled streets, independent shops, cafés, and traditional Cornish pubs. Visitors can easily step off the sand and into the town within seconds, making it one of the most convenient beaches in Cornwall. This close connection between beach and town life is part of what makes St Ives so special and why holidays in St Ives are so popular throughout the year.
The beach is protected from the stronger Atlantic waves by the natural curve of the harbour and surrounding headlands. This makes it ideal for swimming in calmer conditions, especially during the summer months. While it may not offer the surf conditions of nearby Porthmeor Beach, its gentle waters and central location make it perfect for relaxed seaside enjoyment. Many visitors choose Harbour Beach as a place to sit and watch the world go by, with fishing boats coming and going and seagulls circling overhead.
Another highlight of Harbour Beach is its atmosphere at different times of day. In the morning, it is peaceful and quiet, with soft light reflecting off the water. During the day, it becomes more active as visitors explore the town and enjoy the sand. In the evening, it transforms into one of the most picturesque spots in St Ives, especially at sunset when the harbour is bathed in warm golden light.
Overall, Harbour Beach in St Ives offers a perfect blend of convenience, beauty, and traditional Cornish charm. It is not just a beach, but a central part of the town's identity and a must-visit location for anyone exploring St Ives and the surrounding Cornwall coastline.
A small sheltered cove with a beach, situated between the harbour and Porthgwidden beach Bamaluz often goes unnoticed by the majority of visitors to St Ives. The beach is tidal - at high tide the beach is reduced to a small strip of sand. The quiet sandy beach is overlooked by the remains of the Wheal Dream tin mine.
Bamaluz Beach is one of the smallest and most hidden beaches in St Ives, Cornwall, offering a quiet escape just moments away from the busy harbour and town centre. Tucked between Porthgwidden Beach and the harbour area, it is often overlooked by first-time visitors, which makes it one of the most peaceful and uncrowded spots in the heart of St Ives. For those exploring holidays in St Ives, Bamaluz Beach provides a more secluded and relaxed alternative to the town's larger and more popular beaches.
At high tide, Bamaluz Beach can almost disappear completely beneath the sea, but as the tide goes out, a small stretch of sand and rock pools is revealed. This changing landscape adds to its charm, making it feel like a secret beach that appears and disappears with the rhythm of the Atlantic. The sheltered position of the beach, surrounded by rocky outcrops and harbour walls, helps create calm conditions that are ideal for quiet relaxation rather than busy beach activities.
One of the most appealing aspects of Bamaluz Beach is its sense of privacy. Unlike Porthmeor or Porthminster, it rarely becomes crowded, even in peak summer months. This makes it particularly attractive for visitors who want a peaceful place to sit, read, or enjoy the coastal atmosphere without the busier tourist activity. It is also popular with locals who appreciate its hidden nature and easy access from the town centre.
The beach is also well known for its natural rock pools, which are exposed at low tide. These pools are often explored by children and families, offering a fascinating glimpse into the marine life of the Cornish coast. Small crabs, fish, and seaweed can often be seen within the rocks, making it a simple but enjoyable spot for discovery and exploration.
Bamaluz Beach is easily accessible via a short walk from St Ives Harbour or from nearby Porthgwidden Beach. Despite its central location, it feels surprisingly tucked away, giving visitors the impression of a hidden cove within the town itself. The surrounding scenery includes granite cliffs, traditional cottages, and views across St Ives Bay, all contributing to its quiet and intimate atmosphere.
Although Bamaluz Beach does not have facilities such as cafés or lifeguard services, its proximity to the town means everything you need is only a few minutes away. This balance between seclusion and convenience makes it a unique part of the St Ives coastline.
Overall, Bamaluz Beach is a hidden gem that adds to the charm and variety of beaches in St Ives. It offers a peaceful retreat from the busier sands nearby and is perfect for visitors looking to experience a quieter, more natural side of this iconic Cornish holiday destination.
Porthgwidden Beach is one of the most picturesque and sheltered beaches in St Ives, Cornwall, offering a calm and relaxed atmosphere just moments from the town's bustling harbour. Tucked away at the base of the Island headland, it is often described as one of St Ives' hidden gems. Despite its small size, Porthgwidden Beach plays an important role in the appeal of holidays in St Ives, especially for visitors seeking a peaceful, family-friendly seaside experience.
The beach is known for its soft golden sand and gentle waves, which are largely protected from the stronger Atlantic swells by surrounding cliffs and the natural curve of the coastline. This makes it one of the safest swimming beaches in St Ives, particularly during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty. Families with young children often favour Porthgwidden Beach because of its calm waters and sheltered position, which provide a more relaxed environment compared to the surf-heavy beaches nearby.
One of the standout features of Porthgwidden Beach is its beautiful setting. The beach sits directly beneath the grassy slopes of The Island, offering scenic views across St Ives Bay and towards the surrounding coastline. The colourful beach huts that line the back of the beach add to its charm, creating a classic Cornish seaside atmosphere that feels both traditional and welcoming.
Visitors to Porthgwidden Beach will also find a popular beachfront café overlooking the sand, serving a range of refreshments, light meals, and seafood dishes. With outdoor seating just metres from the shoreline, it is an ideal place to enjoy lunch or a coffee while taking in the sea views and watching the tide change. This close connection between beach and café culture adds to the relaxed holiday feel that defines St Ives.
Although smaller than nearby Porthmeor or Porthminster Beaches, Porthgwidden Beach offers a more intimate experience. Its compact size means it rarely feels overwhelming, even during peak holiday periods. Instead, it maintains a friendly and laid-back atmosphere where visitors can unwind, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the peaceful sound of the sea.
The beach is also conveniently located within walking distance of St Ives Harbour and the town centre. A short stroll through narrow cobbled streets leads visitors directly to this quiet cove, making it easy to combine a day of shopping, dining, and beach relaxation in one visit.
Overall, Porthgwidden Beach is a key part of what makes St Ives such a desirable coastal destination. Its sheltered waters, scenic surroundings, and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking to experience a quieter side of Cornwall's famous seaside charm during their holidays in St Ives.
Harbour Beach, St Ives
Porthmeor Beach - looking towards "the Island
A popular "Blue Flag" award-winning beach in St Ives, with a long stretch of sand. Porthmeor Beach is one of the most famous and visually striking beaches in St Ives, Cornwall, and a major highlight for visitors enjoying holidays in St Ives. Located on the western side of the town, it faces directly into the Atlantic Ocean, offering powerful waves, wide open sands, and spectacular coastal scenery. Known for its surf culture, artistic heritage, and dramatic sunsets, Porthmeor Beach is a must-visit destination for both holidaymakers and locals alike.
The beach is particularly popular with surfers due to its consistent Atlantic swell and excellent wave conditions throughout much of the year. Surf schools operate on the beach, making it an ideal place for beginners to learn while more experienced surfers enjoy the larger swells further out. Lifeguards are present during the main holiday season, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers and surfers alike. This combination of activity and safety makes Porthmeor Beach one of the most versatile beaches in St Ives.
Beyond surfing, Porthmeor Beach is also a fantastic place for sunbathing, beach games, and long walks along the shoreline. The wide stretch of golden sand provides plenty of space even during the busiest summer months, meaning visitors can always find a spot to relax. The beach's west-facing position also makes it one of the best places in Cornwall to watch the sunset, with the sky often transforming into vivid shades of orange, pink, and purple as the sun dips into the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the unique features of Porthmeor Beach is its strong connection to the art world. St Ives has long been associated with artists, and the beach has inspired countless paintings and creative works over the years. The nearby Tate St Ives gallery overlooks the beach, reinforcing the town's reputation as a centre for modern and contemporary art. This artistic influence adds depth and cultural significance to the natural beauty of the area.
Visitors to Porthmeor Beach will also find excellent facilities nearby, including a beachfront café and seasonal amenities that make it easy to spend a full day by the sea. The beach is located just a short walk from the town centre and harbour, making it easily accessible for those staying in St Ives accommodation or exploring the town on foot.
The surrounding area offers stunning coastal views and walking routes, particularly along the South West Coast Path, which runs above the beach and provides panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline. These walks allow visitors to experience the rugged beauty of Cornwall while staying close to the heart of St Ives.
Overall, Porthmeor Beach is a defining feature of St Ives and plays a major role in the appeal of holidays in St Ives. With its surf culture, artistic heritage, and breathtaking sunsets, it offers a dynamic and unforgettable coastal experience that captures the true spirit of Cornwall's north coast.
The beach at Clodgy Point is a rocky foreshore with a few patches of sand and shingle. The beach has no facilities, but is popular snorkelling and rock-pooling. The nearest car park is at Porthmeor Beach.
Clodgy Point is a rugged and scenic stretch of coastline just outside the main centre of St Ives, Cornwall, offering one of the most dramatic and unspoilt coastal viewpoints in the area. While not a traditional sandy beach like Porthmeor or Porthminster, Clodgy Point is a popular coastal spot for walkers, photographers, and visitors exploring holidays in St Ives who want to experience a wilder side of the Cornish coast.
Located along the South West Coast Path between St Ives and Zennor, Clodgy Point is known for its rocky shoreline, sweeping Atlantic views, and peaceful atmosphere. The area is characterised by granite cliffs, natural rock formations, and open sea views that stretch far into the horizon. On clear days, visitors can enjoy panoramic views across St Ives Bay, with Porthmeor Beach and The Island visible in the distance.
Although Clodgy Point is not a safe swimming beach due to its rocky terrain and strong currents, it is highly valued for its walking routes and coastal scenery. The path leading to Clodgy Point is a favourite among hikers and dog walkers, offering a quieter alternative to the busier beaches in St Ives. The walk from the town centre takes visitors through winding coastal paths with ever-changing views of the sea and cliffs.
Wildlife is another highlight of Clodgy Point. Seabirds are often seen nesting along the cliffs, and it is not uncommon to spot seals or dolphins offshore. The natural environment remains relatively untouched, giving the area a sense of isolation and raw beauty that contrasts with the more developed parts of St Ives.
Sunset at Clodgy Point is particularly impressive. As the sun lowers over the Atlantic, the cliffs and sea are bathed in golden light, creating one of the most peaceful and scenic moments along the Cornish coast. Many visitors choose this location for photography or quiet reflection away from the town's activity.
Overall, Clodgy Point adds an important natural and dramatic element to the St Ives coastline. While it may not be a traditional beach destination, it is an essential part of the wider coastal experience and enhances the appeal of holidays in St Ives for those who enjoy walking, scenery, and unspoilt coastal landscapes.
