Porthmeor vs Porthminster: Which Is Better for a Holiday in St Ives?
Staying near Porthmeor Beach
If you love the idea of stepping out for an early surf, watching the sun disappear over the Atlantic or wandering between galleries and characterful old lanes, Porthmeor could be the perfect choice.
Porthmeor sits within the historic Downalong area of St Ives, where narrow streets and traditional fishermen’s cottages create a wonderfully atmospheric setting. The beach itself is popular with surfers, while Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum are both within easy walking distance.
It is also a great base for exploring the coastline. From Porthmeor, you can walk towards The Island and Porthgwidden beaches, or head in the other direction towards Man’s Head and Clodgy Point. For keen walkers, the coastal path provides a beautiful route towards Zennor.
There is plenty to enjoy when you return from the beach, too. Porthmeor Beach Café is a favourite for everything from breakfast to evening dining, with sea views and a front-row position for those famous West Cornwall sunsets. It also features in our guide to the best breakfasts and brunches in St Ives, which is well worth a read if you like to start the day with a great view. For something a little different later in the day, The Fish Shed serves creative seafood dishes using local ingredients.
For a relaxing break after a day on the coast, the Kiln Sauna Pavilion now offers panoramic saunas and cold plunge pools overlooking Porthmeor Beach.
If you want to stay close to the action, Sea Spirit is a wonderful option, with an elevated position offering views towards both St Ives Harbour and the town, while Porthmeor Beach is just a short walk away. Barnoon Villa is a great family-sized holiday home sat opposite Barnoon car park with a footpath that leads directly down to the beach. Zennor Apartment is also moments from the footpath that leads to Porthmeor Beach from behind the Tate Gallery. Super convenient for a quick nip into the sea for a morning dip before coffee!
Atlantic Blue and Glas Mor are other excellent choices for a beach-focused escape, with sea views and a location around 100 metres from Porthmeor, while 20 Barnaloft comes with a breathtaking balcony and its own private beach access.
“The apartment (Sea Spirit) was absolutely amazing. Right in the centre of St. Ives with a very short walk to Porthmeor beach (our favourite surf/beach spot) and similar short walk to the harbour. The elevated position gives you a fantastic view of both the harbour and the town.”
Harry Bodenhofer
Staying near Porthminster Beach
Porthminster feels a world away from the energy of Porthmeor. Its sheltered position, soft golden sand and clear waters give it a relaxed, almost Mediterranean character.
It is particularly well suited to families, swimmers and anyone who enjoys watersports without the bigger Atlantic swell. Paddleboards and kayaks can be hired from the beach, while the nearby train station makes arriving by rail especially easy.
The area also has a slightly gentler feel for getting around, with the coastal path providing a lovely route towards Carbis Bay. The newly finished Malakoff bus station is also close by, offering connections towards Carbis Bay, Hayle and beyond.
Food is another highlight. Porthminster Beach Café occupies an enviable position directly beside the sand, serving fresh seafood and seasonal dishes with panoramic views across the bay. There is also a more casual beachside option for drinks, ice creams and takeaway food.
For something special, Pedn Olva sits dramatically above the town with panoramic sea views, making it a memorable spot for a drink or meal after a day on the beach.
Porthminster is also a good choice if you fancy adding a little pampering to your holiday. HARSPA at St Ives Harbour Hotel offers spa treatments, pools, saunas and steam rooms, while the Mor Holan Sauna on Porthminster provides another way to unwind beside the sea.
Number 4 Salt and Porthia Penthouse are both close to the Harbour Hotel and include complimentary spa access for guests, making them appealing options for a relaxing St Ives break. Porthia Penthouse also has exceptional views across Porthminster and St Ives Bay.
“Porthia Penthouse has one of the best sea views that we’ve had in apartments we’ve stayed in in both St Ives or Carbis Bay over the past 12 years. On a quiet night with the balcony doors open you can hear the waves crashing on Porthminster.”
-Mark Patton
If you’re bringing your dog, 1 The Coach House is particularly useful, with two private parking spaces and easy access to the coast path towards Porthminster and Carbis Bay.
Dogs are welcome on both Porthmeor and Porthminster beaches before 10am and after 6pm during the summer season, while from 1st October to 14th May they can enjoy the beaches all day.
So, which beach should you choose?
There really is no wrong answer. Choose Porthmeor if surfing, sunsets, galleries, coastal walks and a lively atmosphere sound like your ideal St Ives holiday. Choose Porthminster if you prefer calm water, sandy beach days, watersports, easy train access and a more relaxed setting.
Whichever side of St Ives you choose, Orange Roofs has a fantastic selection of coastal accommodation to suit different styles of holiday.
From properties right by the beach to apartments and cottages with spectacular sea views, explore our collection of luxury holiday cottages in St Ives to find the perfect setting for your Cornish coastal escape.
For a wider look at the different areas of town, take a look at our guide to Where is the Best Area to Stay in St Ives?