Experience St Ives
Get to know the cobbled streets and picture-postcard beaches of St Ives like a local.
If you’ve ever visited St Ives, you’ll already know that much of the town’s historical charm remains in the granite cottages and the labyrinth of lanes and alleys known as ‘Downalong’, where around each corner can be found a hidden treasure, a gallery, potter’s yard, theatre or café.
“With over 240 hand picked holiday cottages, solely situated in and around St Ives, you’ll be spoilt for choice”
The town is surrounded by incredible beaches too, each with a character of its own. The three main beaches here were all awarded Blue Flag status in 2017 for their cleanliness and facilities, and many benefit from the watchful eyes of lifeguards during the holiday season.
Taking a tour of these golden sands, Porthmeor faces the Atlantic ocean and is the most popular beach, especially with surfers and bodyboarders. It’s also home to St Ives Surf School and the popular Porthmeor Beach Café.
Head east and you’ll find Porthgwidden; smaller than the main beaches, there is a lovely atmosphere here with all the facilities you need for a good old-fashioned family day out. And if you like Porthgwidden, you’ll love Bamaluz! This very small beach is mostly rocks, but as the tide goes out, it reveals a sandy beach located in the middle of the town. It’s popular with dog owners too, being dog friendly all year round!
The harbour beach has areas that are family friendly due to their access to the town’s shops and cafés. At low tide, the sands continue onto Lambath Walk, located just behind the Lifeboat Station. Continue along Lambath Walk and The Warren and you’ll come to Porthminster, another large beach protected from the surf. The beach retains a slightly Victorian feel, with the architecture of the cafés and restaurants, yet it boasts everything the modern beach goer could ask for, including kayak and SUP hire – perfect for making the most of the calm blue waters.
As you leave St Ives, you’ll come to Carbis Bay, home to another sweeping stretch of sand that’s perfect for families, and with all the facilities you need for an all-day stay. Continue around the bay and you’ll find Porthkidney – a vast expanse of sand that can stretch out nearly a mile at low tides, and which is dog friendly all year round!
There’s so much more to discover in this beautiful pocket of coastal Cornwall. If you’re looking for the perfect base from which to explore it all, St Ives Holidays may just be what you’re looking for. With over 240 hand picked holiday cottages, solely situated in and around St Ives, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
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On the other side of the Hayle river, at low tide, you’ll find three miles of sand stretching all the way to Godrevy Lighthouse, popular with families and water sports enthusiasts alike.
St Ives Holidays
01736 794686
"With over 240 hand picked holiday cottages, solely situated in and around St Ives, you’ll be spoilt for choice"