Welcome to St Ives, Cornwall’s enchanting coastal paradise! Boasting stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant surf culture, St Ives is a must-visit destination for sun-seekers and surfers alike.
Dive into our list of the 6 best beaches in St Ives, and start planning your unforgettable seaside adventure today!
Best Beaches In St Ives
6 Best Beaches In St Ives
Porthmeor Beach
Porthmeor Beach is the crown jewel of St Ives’ sandy coastline. Widely regarded as one of the best surfing spots in the UK, Porthmeor attracts surfers and bodyboarders from all over the globe.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total beginner, the friendly local surf schools offer lessons for all ages and abilities.
But it’s not just the surf that makes Porthmeor a must-visit beach. With its crescent-shaped shoreline and golden sands, this Blue Flag awarded beach is perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
During the summer months, Porthmeor’s pristine sands are dotted with colourful beach huts, creating a picture-perfect scene that you won’t want to miss.
Porthmeor is also famous for its breathtaking sunsets. As the sun sinks into the horizon, the sky explodes with vibrant hues of orange and pink, providing an unforgettable backdrop for an evening beach stroll. It’s no wonder that Porthmeor Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in St Ives!
Porthminster Beach
A short walk from St Ives town centre, Porthminster Beach is a popular choice for families looking to relax and soak up the sun. With its soft, powdery sands and calm, turquoise waters, this Blue Flag beach is perfect for little ones to splash and play safely.
Take a scenic ride on the St Ives branch line and disembark at Porthminster, where the train station offers direct access to the beach. As you step onto the sands, you’ll be greeted by the tantalising aroma of the renowned Porthminster Beach Café.
With its mouth-watering menu of locally-sourced seafood and sweeping sea views, this beachside eatery is an essential pit stop for hungry sunbathers.
Porthminster is also a hub for watersports enthusiasts. Try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking or even sailing, with local operators offering equipment hire and lessons.
After a day spent exploring the coastline, kick back and relax on one of the many sun loungers available to rent, and soak up the serene atmosphere of this charming St Ives beach.
Porthgwidden Beach
Tucked away beneath the iconic Island headland, Porthgwidden Beach is a hidden gem that’s perfect for those seeking a more secluded spot.
Its sheltered position makes it a favourite among families with young children, as the gentle waves and clear waters are ideal for paddling and swimming.
The compact, sandy cove is fringed by colourful beach huts, adding to the quintessential British seaside charm of Porthgwidden. Its location also provides stunning views of Godrevy Lighthouse and St Ives Bay, making it a fantastic spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Feeling peckish? The Porthgwidden Beach Café offers a delicious selection of Cornish cuisine and freshly-caught seafood. Grab a table on their outdoor terrace and enjoy panoramic sea views while you dine.
Carbis Bay Beach
Carbis Bay Beach is a breathtaking slice of paradise, located just a mile east of St Ives. It’s golden sands and turquoise waters have earned it the prestigious Blue Flag status, as well as comparisons to the Caribbean.
The calm, sheltered bay is perfect for swimming, making it a popular choice for families and couples seeking a more tranquil beach experience.
Carbis Bay is also part of the larger St Ives Bay, which has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic coastal walk from St Ives to Carbis Bay, offering unparalleled views of the rugged Cornish coastline and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do at Carbis Bay, with paddleboarding, kayaking, and even windsurfing on offer. When you’re ready to refuel, indulge in a tasty treat at one of the beachside cafes or restaurants.
Porthkidney Beach
A true hidden gem, Porthkidney Beach lies just west of St Ives, offering a vast expanse of golden sand and dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. The beach is dog-friendly year-round, making it a top choice for those looking to bring their four-legged friends along for a day of seaside fun.
At low tide, the beach becomes a playground for sports enthusiasts, with ample space for beach games such as volleyball, frisbee, and football. The dunes provide a natural barrier, giving Porthkidney a secluded and peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowds.
Access to Porthkidney Beach is via a picturesque footpath through the sand dunes, and the views alone are worth the walk. Make sure to pack a picnic, as there are no facilities on the beach itself.
Bamaluz Beach
Bamaluz Beach is a small, rocky cove located in the heart of St Ives, between the Harbour and Porthgwidden Beach. Although not as famous as its neighbours, this secluded beach is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience.
At low tide, Bamaluz reveals a sandy shore, ideal for rock pooling and exploring the marine life that calls this beach home.
The sheltered location means that the waters here are often calm and perfect for a refreshing swim. Plus, Bamaluz Beach is dog-friendly all year round, so you can enjoy a peaceful day at the beach with your furry companion.
While there are no facilities directly on Bamaluz Beach, its central location means you’re only a short walk away from the bustling St Ives town centre.
After a day spent unwinding on the sands, head into town to explore the local shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – the 6 best beaches in St Ives, each offering a unique and unforgettable coastal experience. With such a diverse range of sandy shores to explore, St Ives truly is a beach lover’s paradise. Dive into the beauty of Cornwall’s most captivating seaside town!
Check out the best beaches in South Cornwall or the neighbouring South Devon.
Founder, Editor
Ed is the founder and editor at Lifes Beaches. He’s lived near a beach his whole life and loves exploring other great places to enjoy the sun and the sea. He’s a keen surfer and enjoys finding hidden beach spots to catch the best waves.
