A Valentine’s Guide to Romantic St Ives
Sunset Spots That Take Your Breath Away
St Ives is a sunset lover’s paradise. From Porthmeor Beach, watch the sun sink slowly into the Atlantic, painting the sky in fiery oranges and pinks. For a more intimate moment, take a stroll to The Island, where benches on the seaward side provide a serene spot to watch the waves and steal a quiet kiss. The headlands around St Ives offer dramatic vantage points, perfect for seal spotting or simply soaking in the breathtaking views.
Activities for Couples
Couples seeking culture and creativity will feel right at home in St Ives. Spend a morning at the Tate St Ives exploring contemporary art, or join a pottery workshop at the historic Leach Pottery. For a slower pace, wander the cobbled streets, visit the Mariners’, Penwith, or the many harbour-side galleries, and warm up with a hot chocolate at a local café.
Couples’ Wellbeing
For those wanting to combine romance with relaxation, St Ives has no shortage of winter wellbeing options. HARspa at the St Ives Harbour Hotel offers award-winning Elemis treatments, hydrotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, and packages that include hot stone massages, facials, lunch at the Harbour Kitchen, and a glass of prosecco.
If you prefer something more unique, try the Mor Holan Sauna at Porthminster Beach, right next to the beach café.
Romantic Dining in St Ives
No Valentine’s guide is complete without delicious food.
Porthminster Kitchen is a great spot for a relaxed, romantic meal, with huge windows looking right out over the harbour. You can watch the fishing boats come in while tucking into fresh seafood, linguine or classic fish and chips.
Meanwhile, Ardor on Fore Street has a warm, date‑night vibe, serving Mediterranean pintxos, tapas and fresh Cornish seafood. Think monkfish and prawn skewers, Megrim sole or hake cooked simply over charcoal, all paired with vibrant cocktails. It’s relaxed, share‑a‑few‑plates kind of romantic.
For a candlelit dinner with harbour views, you can also try the Rum & Crab Shack, where sea-faring fare meets a warm, inviting atmosphere. On Valentine’s night, you can enjoy any two courses for just £25.
Afterwards, continue the evening at The R Bar, the Shack’s “little sister,” tucked away behind granite steps on Fore Street. With intimate live jazz from the incredible Jo McNab, soft lighting, and the cosy hideaway feel, it’s the perfect setting for late-night romance.
Fun fact: both Dead Man’s Finger Rum and Stargazy Cosmic Caramel Rum were crafted here, cementing The R Bar as the Southwest’s spiritual home of rum.
For couples seeking a mix of seafood and steak, Reef & Beef on Fore Street offers a warm, romantic atmosphere with harbour glimpses, cocktails like Reef & Beef Punch or Dark & Stormy, and a complimentary dessert with a two-course dinner on Valentine’s Night.
Another romantic gem is The Mermaid, known as St Ives’ most romantic restaurant. Nestled in the historic ‘Down-a-Long’ fishing quarter, the restaurant features vintage photographs, church pew seating, and maritime memorabilia that tell the story of St Ives’ fishing heritage. Sip a bottle of Cornish Camel Valley Pinot Noir or a glass of mead while soaking in the unique character and charm.
Seal Island Boat Trips
For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the water. Step aboard a boat from St Ives Harbour for a daytime cruise around the Cornish coastline to Seal Island and Godrevy Lighthouse, keeping an eye out for seals, dolphins, sunfish, and seabirds. Evening cruises offer the added magic of a sunset over the Atlantic.
Private charters are available, ideal for proposals or special occasions. Boats can be booked from mid February – be quick as spots can fill up fast.
The Perfect Place to Stay
Of course, a romantic getaway isn’t complete without the right accommodation. Orange Roofs offers a curated collection of properties to suit every couple:
Hot tub escapes: Properties like 1 Moonrakers and Lahaina
Cosy cottages with woodburners: Such as Penhallow and Painter’s Cottage
Balconies with harbour views: Like 20 Barnaloft and 6 Sunnyside
Whether you prefer a modern beachside apartment with front-row sunset seats or a charming cottage overlooking St Ives Wharf, there’s a romantic retreat waiting for you.
Make This Valentine’s Unforgettable
Looking for a mid-winter escape, a proposal idea, or simply a chance to impress your date? St Ives combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and indulgent experiences to make your Valentine’s weekend unforgettable. From intimate spa days and artistic adventures to candlelit dinners and scenic boat trips, the town is ready to create memories you’ll cherish forever.
Book your romantic St Ives getaway with Orange Roofs today and experience the magic of Cornwall with someone special.
Note: Availability and prices may change, so it’s always worth checking ahead.