Explore the dreamy beaches St Ives has to offer

Located only a mile east of St Ives, Carbis Bay Beach is a true hub of peace and tranquillity. Part of the makeup of St Ives Bay, this beach has very little surf and is therefore a perfect spot to come and relax, bring the family for a day out or even plan a picnic. The beach serves up some epic views and a beach covered in golden sands wide enough to allow visitors to remain in their own little bubble and feel like they’re entirely cut off from the world. Carbis Bay is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful in the world and it’s easy to see why. Beyond its sandy splendour, the water is bright blue and the entire area is surrounded by sub-tropical plants. Lifeguard cover is in place on the beach from early July until the start of September and dogs are not permitted on site from mid-May to late September. Please keep in mind that parking around the beach can be tricky to find and accessibility measures are not fully in place so it can be hard to navigate.

Porthmeor Beach is highly rated by most people that have had the chance to visit. As the Tate St Ives stands tall overlooking the sandy beach, surfers, sunbathers, walkers and swimmers of all kinds are always expected to flock to Porthmeor. Its high water quality and standard of upkeep, facilities, environmental management and safety have even been rewarded by a prestigious Blue Flag Award. A short walk from St Ives town centre, the beach is easily accessible and makes for an unforgettable day out with the family, be sure to stop by the Porthmeor Beach café for a little drink and a snack break if you didn’t bring your picnic along with you. 

It’s a great spot for surfers, both novice and advanced, with many surf schools in the area and space to practise. Keep in mind that life guard cover is in place from early April until the end of October and dogs are not allowed on the beach from mid-May until the end of September. The adjacent car park gets full pretty quickly in the high season but parking in town is another option for visitors.

As soon as the tide is low, visitors can get a glimpse of St Ives Harbour Beach and take along the wet sand all the way to Porthminster beach. A fantastic spot for seal watching, the beach borders the 18th century stone pier and is home to a colourful array of small boats. It can get rather busy during the summer, as visitors meet up for ice cream and delicious fresh pasties as they sit and watch the sunset. There is nearby parking that gives easy access to the harbour. Dogs are allowed on the beach except from July 1st to August 31st.

With stunning views of Godrevy Lighthouse, yes, the very one that is said to have inspired Virgina Woolf’s legendary “To The Lighthouse” (1927), Porthminster Beach is an unmissable stop on anyone’s Cornwall itinerary. The beach’s stunning crescent shape means it provides gorgeous views of the beach itself and the glorious sand and flora and fauna that makes it so unique. The Porthminster Beach Cafe is a great stop to grab a bite to eat while visiting the beach. Lifeguard cover and dog ban are in place for the same time period, from mid-May until late September. Be aware that nearby car parks fill up very quickly. 

By car: 

• St Ives is about a 20 minute drive from the A30.  
• Be sure to check parking arrangements ahead of time as beach car parks can fill up quickly. 

On foot: 

• Most beaches will be within walking distance of the town centre.  

By bus: 

• Local buses are always in operation to and from St Ives and are easy to navigate. 

By train: 

• Local trains operate consistently to St Ives from London Paddington via Reading, Exeter, Plymouth, Bodmin, Truro, St Erth and Penzance. 

• Be sure to be safe when going into the water, especially when lifeguards are not around. When there is lifeguard cover, be sure to pay attention to their rules and advice. 
• Make sure you check the weather ahead of your visit. 
• Don’t forget sunscreen!