5 Years On from G7: Why Visitors Still Flock to Carbis Bay
It’s hard to forget the scenes that unfolded that week. Chinook helicopters coming and going from Tregenna Castle, naval ships lurking off the coast, security on every corner and the Red Arrows treating us to a magnificent display over the Bay.
We’ll always remember Joe Biden’s motorcade making its way through the streets of Carbis Bay, with crowds lining the usually quiet roads as the village took on a completely different energy for the day.
For a brief moment, Carbis Bay was suddenly on everyone’s map in a way it had never been before.
But for those of us who have always known it (including Boris Johnson himself who used to come down for family holidays!), the beauty of the bay has never really needed putting on a stage. It has always been there, whether the world was watching or not.
Is Carbis Bay a Good Place to Stay for a Cornish Break?
Carbis Bay sits right on the edge of South West Coast Path, so you can step straight onto the coastal path and head off in either direction. Walk west and you reach the buzz of St Ives, the harbour, galleries and cafés. Heading east will take you to Porthkidney Sands where your dog can run free year-round.
Being so close to St Ives is part of what makes Carbis Bay such a good base. You get the best of both worlds. A peaceful place to stay, but with easy access to everything St Ives has to offer, from its art scene to its restaurants and independent shops. You can be in the middle of it all in minutes, then retreat back to the calm of the bay when you are done.
Places to Eat in Carbis Bay
Food in Carbis Bay has come a long way over the years. What was once a simple Wimpy Bar down by the beach car park has evolved into a proper little hub of places to eat, with something for just about every mood and occasion.
Right on the shoreline you will find spots like The Beach Club and Walter’s on the Beach, both made for slow lunches that turn into afternoons, with the sea just a few steps away. Looking ahead, summer 2026 will also see the arrival of MŌR Carbis Bay, a new dining concept from Michelin-starred chef Tom Sellers, which is set to bring an exciting new chapter to the beachfront dining scene.
For something more low key, The Gannet Inn is a cosy option with a focus on local produce and a very good Sunday lunch. Also making its mark on the Carbis Bay dining scene is Romano’s – offering something a bit different with its Italian deli style menu, fresh bread, pastries and a great selection of wines, designed more for sharing than formal dining.
If you are after something simple and reliably good, Beck’s Fish & Chips is a local favourite and well worth the queue. It has built a strong reputation over the years, including for its gluten free options, and people happily travel from across Cornwall just to pick up a portion.
Further along St Ives Road The Bean Inn and Yvette’s Pantry both offer vegetarian and vegan menus, fresh salads and homemade cakes. Even a quick coffee stop at Tesco comes with a view across to Godrevy Lighthouse, which is hard to beat for a supermarket café run.
Things to do in Carbis Bay
There is plenty to do beyond eating and walking. The beach itself is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding or simply spending the day on the sand. At low tide, children often end up building little dams in the stream that runs down to the sea.
(Due to it being a Blue-Flag beach, please note dogs are restricted during daytime hours from mid-May to the end of September.)
If you want something more relaxing, Una St Ives Spa & Leisure is close by and offers swimming pools, spa facilities and a quiet place to unwind. Horse riding at Standing Stone Stables is another great option, whether you are a complete beginner or more experienced rider looking to explore the countryside.
Discover Carbis Bay for Yourself
For anyone staying in the area, Carbis Bay is the kind of place that makes it easy to switch off. At Orange Roofs, our handpicked holiday cottages are all about comfort, space and location. Many come with enclosed gardens, sunny terraces or hot tubs, perfect for unwinding after a day by the sea. The beach is just a short walk away, so everything you need is close at hand.
Whether you are looking for a dog friendly stay, a property with parking, or a luxury coastal escape with a sea view, Orange Roofs has a carefully curated collection of holiday homes designed to fit the way you want to stay.
If you are ready for slow mornings, sea air and a proper Cornish escape, take a look at our Holiday Cottages in Carbis Bay with Orange Roofs and start planning your next getaway.