St Ives Beach Destinations and Where to Stay
Porthminster Beach
Porthiminster beach is the perfect combination of a calm turquoise sea and crisp white sand. No matter what time of year it is, you’ll feel like you’re off the coast of a tropical island as opposed to Cornwall, especially as the beach is lined with palm trees!
Activities?
Porthminster is home to the St Ives Watersport Centre, so it is a great beach location for those that are looking to try something adventurous at the beach. Here you can hire SUPs, kayaks, book lesson, excursions or even coasteering!
Somewhere to eat?
If you’re looking to spend the day at Porthminster beach, you’ll find everything you need food wise! There are two beachside takeaways that serve an array of food that is sure to leave you satisfied whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Slightly back from the beach, you can also find the Porthminster Beach Shack that serves some of the most amazing cocktails throughout the summer!
Come the evening, when you’re all sea and sanded out, it is the perfect time to visit the Porthminster Beach Cafe. This beautiful restaurant hosts elegant and delicious dining, making the most of the local ingredients. An added bonus? You have the most beautiful sea views from the restaurant!
Toilets?
There are public toilets located just behind the beach, less than a two minute walk away.
Dog friendly?
There is a seasonal dog ban on this beach so please be sure to check out the following website for the most up to date in formation – Cornwall Council Seasonal Dog Bans
Where to stay?
Porthia Penthouse
Porthia Penthouse is an exquisite top floor apartment that boasts exceptional sea views from its open plan living room and kitchen area and not forgetting, its own private balcony. You are just a few moment’s walk away from Porthminster beach and an added bonus, if the weather is not in your favour, this apartment comes with two complimentary passes for the St Ives Harbour Spa. This makes for a very relaxing day out!
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Private balcony
- Parking
1 The Coach House
1 The Coach House is a light, spacious, duplex apartment. It has some of the most glorious sea views from the open plan living room and kitchen. At 1 The Coach House there is ample room for a family of six and something even better, your four legged friend can join you too! This apartment is just a stones’s throw from the St Ives to Carbis Bay coast path, meaning it is a very short and beautifully scenic walk to Porthminster Beach.
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Parking
- Dog friendly
- Outdoor space
2 The Coach House
2 The Coach House is the perfect base for a small family or romantic couples getaway. The single floored apartment is filled with natural light coming from a combination of the large bi-fold doors and skylights. 2 The Coach house offers its guests all the mod-cons you’d need for a truly comfortable ‘home from home’ experience while on holiday to St Ives. Similar to 1 The Coach House, you can access the St Ives coastal path in just a few short steps from 2 The Coach House, effortlessly leading you to Porthminster Beach.
- 2 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathroom
- Sea views
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Outdoor space
1 The Coach House
Porthmeor Beach
Porthmeor Beach is a surfers paradise; favourite amongst the family and it’s the ultimate sunset watching spot. This well-renowned beach does not disappoint. Porthmeor itself is surrounded by several iconic landmarks in St Ives. The Island and St Nicholas’ Chapel are to the east side of the beach, Clodgy and ‘Man’s Head’ are to the west side and then just behind Porthmeor is Tate St Ives. Your St Ives holiday should most definitely include a beach day on Porthmeor, it will be hard to miss this fantastic spot!
Activities
The St Ives Surf School has been one of the most loved establishments in the town for many years now and it’s not hard to see why. It is located right in the heart of Porthmeor and attracts a hive of activity all year round. The surf school can accommodate for all of its visitors in its own unique way. Whether you’re a complete beginning or a seasoned professional, they can tailor lessons to suit you. Everyone can enjoy some time here with their great team!
Somewhere to eat?
If you’re looking to stay settled on the sand for the day, you have two takeaway options on Porthmeor Beach. The central takeaway is where you can find the essentials such as ice cream, sandwiches, delicious salads and some hot food too, from pasties to calamari! On the west side of Porthmeor there is West Beach Bakery. They’re famous for their outstanding pizzas, excellent barista made coffee, tasty deli and of course, scrumptious baked goods. All of this can be enjoyed to takeaway, or for alfresco dining. Porthmeor Beach Cafe also sits just above the edge of the sand. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and they’re one of the most sought after spots in St Ives. With covered, heated, outdoor booths, you’re given uninterrupted views of this wonderful beach and if you’re there for a summer’s evening, you’ll certainly have your breath taken away by the sunset.
Toilets?
You can find public toilets in the West side car park or near the central takeaway.
Dog friendly?
There is a seasonal dog ban on this beach so please be sure to check out the following website for the most up to date information – Cornwall Council Seasonal Dog Bans
Where to stay?
20 Barnaloft
20 Barnaloft simply oozes with all the things a luxury beachside apartment should. A dreamy combination of sublime sea views, a modern and comfortable interior, all whilst being so close to the ocean that you’re practically on the beach. It really is difficult to peel yourself away from this beautiful apartment! If it isn’t clear yet, your walk to the beach will be less than a minute! All you need to do is take the steps down to ground level and access the beach via your own private ‘Barnaloft’ beach door.
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Private Balcony
- Private beach access
- Sea views
- Parking
Barnoon Villa
Barnoon Villa makes for a great family escape to the seaside. Covering a large space, over three floors, and a garden at the front and the rear of the property means that there is ample space for everyone. You’re just a very short walk down to Porthmeor, so if you’ve got your bodyboards stored in the courtyard, it won’t be too difficult for you to carry them down and back!
- 4 Bedrooms (sleeping 7)
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Outdoor space
- Parking
- Dog friendly
20 Barnaloft
15 The Digey
15 The Digey is a spacious one bedroom apartment, ideally situated in one of the oldest parts of St Ives. Although this is a beautifully renovated and modern apartment, staying here really allows you to step back in time and experience St Ives in the traditional way!
- 1 Bedroom
- 1 Bathroom
- Central location
Zennor
Zennor is a wonderful ‘almost beachside’ apartment. At this property you are located just a very short, downhill walk away from Porthmeor Beach, making it a perfect base for your Cornish break. The carefully finished property exudes comfort and will suit all occasions, whether it is a small family break or romantic couples getaway.
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Outdoor patio area
- Parking
In-between Cottage
There is certainly nothing ‘in-between’ about In-between Cottage. This newly renovated cottage is simply charming. Being located on the Digey means that as soon as you step out the front door, you are in the heart of St Ives and quite literally just around the corner from Porthmeor Beach. With an outdoor shower and ample storage for wetsuits and beach equipment, its perfect for you sea and sand lovers!
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Parking
- Storage for beach equipment
- Outdoor shower
1 Porthmeor Road
1 Porthmeor Road sits in the heart of Downalong, meaning that during your time here everything is easily to hand. From surf lessons at the St Ives Surf School to having a BBQ dinner on the beach. It is the perfect base for an adventurous family looking to enjoy all that St Ives has to offer.
- 3 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathroom
- Pet friendly
- Rear courtyard ideal for beach equipment storage
45 Back Road West is a beautiful chocolate box property located in a wonderfully historic part of St Ives. Keeping almost all of its traditional infrastructure, it really is a dreamy Cornish holiday cottage. You’ll feel all the luxuries of a modern holiday home in the setting of one of the oldest streets in St Ives. Due to its close proximity to the old sail lofts and Porthmeor Beach
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Pet friendly
- Parking
Coastal Seascape
Coastal Seascape is a luxury sea view apartment, perfect for a short break in the winter or a wonderfully relaxing fortnight in the Summer. It is a great place for you to stay and enjoy St Ives and West Cornwall. Coastal Seascape is a newly converted, traditional Cornish home where every effort has been made to make the property be everything you need for a relaxing stay in St Ives.
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Shared courtyard ideal for beach equipment storage
- Wood burner
- Parking
Ocean Seascape
If you’re looking for a modern, comfortable and convenient apartment, Ocean Seascape is the place for you! Ideally located just a few moments’ walk following a footpath, immediately opposite the apartment, down to Porthmeor beach, you’re close to everything you could need for a seaside holiday. A huge added bonus is that your allocated parking space is right on the door step of your property!
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Shared courtyard ideal for beach equipment storage
- Sea views
- Parking
Atlantic Blue
Atlantic Blue is a fantastic holiday property, located just 100 meters from Porthmeor Beach. It is a duplex apartment, boasting fantastic views from both the kitchen (a cooking essential!) and from your own private terrace on the next floor. With just a few flights of stairs separating you from the water’s edge, we’re sure Atlantic Blue will will give you your beach fix.
- 1 Bedroom (sleeps 4 with a king sized sofa bed)
- 1 Bathroom
- Sea views
- Private terrace
- Parking
- Pet friendly
Coastal Seascape
Porthgwidden Beach
We’re sure you’ll recognise the technicolour beach chalets that line the sub-tropical Porthgwidden beach, making it quintessentially ‘St Ives’. The sand is soft and golden and the sea reflects the vibrant blue skies. One reason why this beach is such a hit is that it is east-facing and an absolute suntrap! In the winter months, it makes for an excellent surf watching spot too, so it is a hotspot all year round.
Activities?
Porthgwidden is a great swimming and rockpool spot. However, it does not have any equipment hire or surf/water sport schools. This beach is not life guarded so we would implore you to swim with caution and take a look at our beach safety blog.
Somewhere to eat?
Porthgwidden has both a cafe with amazing views and a beachside takeaway, so you certainly won’t go hungry! Porthgwidden Beach Cafe is available to book for lunch and dinner, serving tapas, cocktails and scrumptious artisan pizzas. You won’t be disappointed with the cinematic sea view it provides.
The Porthgwidden takeaway, located just below the cafe, is perfect for all your beach picnic essentials such as pasties, sausage rolls, sandwiches, chips and of course…Ice creams!
Toilets?
There is a short but moderately steep hill to walk up from the beach to reach the public toilets. Please be assured, it is still less than a 3 minute walk.
Dog friendly?
There is a seasonal dog ban on this beach so please be sure to check out the following website for the most up to date information – Cornwall Council Seasonal Dog Bans
Where to stay?
Pendynas
Pendynas is a traditional Cornish home that has been beautifully renovated to give you a modern and luxurious stay whilst maintaining many of its Cornish roots. It provides the perfect balance of a cosy home whilst providing ample space and amenities for a family of 6.
- 3 Bedrooms
- 4 Bathrooms
- Private courtyard
- 2 Parking spaces
Island Retreat
Island Retreat is a dog friendly cottage that is ideally tucked away in the centre of St Ives. It is a part of the extensively refurbished Rockcliff Court and it provides a truly ‘tardis’ like quality throughout. Island Retreat offers the perfect amount of privacy in a very central location in St Ives.
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- On site parking
Sea Fever
This beautiful, four-storey, transformed fisherman’s cottage is in an idyllic central location. It has a super south-facing balcony with beautiful views of the St Ives bay. We know that this timeless cottage will draw you back again and again. Many wonderful moments have been enjoyed amongst guests at Sea Fever.
- 2 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Private balcony
- Sea views
- Parking
- Dog friendly
Pendynas
St Ives Harbour Beach
Perhaps one of the most painted and photographed beaches in the county, if not, the country! The St Ives harbour has captured the hearts of many and it isn’t difficult to see why. Lined with fishing boats, beach chairs and waterside cafes and restaurants, this small beach is a favourite to many. The size of the beach is hugely depending on the tide, but you’ll always be able to find a perfectly sunny corner to sit and watch the world go by.
Activities?
As St Ives harbour is still a working one, there is no water sport hire available on the beach. However, if you’re looking for a boat trip, this is the place for you! Surrounding the beach you will find various concession stands where you can book a whole array of boat trips. From self-drive motor boats (great fun!) to trips to seal island. Or for the real thrill seekers out there, how about trying the exhilarating Blue Thunder Rib Ride!?
Somewhere to eat?
The beach itself does not have a takeaway or restaurant similar to the other beaches in St Ives. However, due to its very central location, you’re no more than a minute’s walk away from something delicious. Within a matter of moments you could have a freshly filled baguette, pasty, salad box, ice cream or even a Thai takeaway! Believe us when we say, the options are endless!
Toilets?
Your closest public toilets are located just behind the beach at the beginning of Smeatons Pier or behind The Sloop Inn at the other end of the beach.
Dog friendly?
There is a seasonal dog ban on this beach so please be sure to check out the following website for the most up to date information – Cornwall Council Seasonal Dog Bans
Where to Stay?
2 Harbour House
No stone has been left unturned with our exquisite apartment, 2 Harbour House. The property has some of the most beautiful sea views that span out across the harbour and it truly is an iconic location in St Ives. The owners of 2 Harbour House have explored every detail in the property ensuring it offers you a warm and welcoming stay. Now, if you can draw yourself away from the comfort of 2 Harbour House, you’ll realise just how close you are to the sea itself!
- 2 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Parking
Artist’s Harbour
Artist’s Harbour is another traditional fisherman’s Cottage that has been well adapted to suit the needs of modern day living, whilst retaining many of its original features, giving you a true feel for what the property may have been like 100 years ago!
- 3 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Parking
- Dog friendly
Harbour Beach Cottage
Harbour Beach Cottage is a property that does exactly what it says on the tin! You are quite literally a few feet away from St Ives Harbour beach, but, if you’re simply not feeling like taking the short walk to the beach, you have ample sea views from the property. It’s a cottage with character that would have been used as something quite different when fishing was one of the only ways of life in St Ives.
- 3 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathroom
- Cloakroom with WC
- Sea views
- Parking
Artist’s Light
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again, Artist’s Light is one of the best kept secrets in St Ives! It is situated in the heart of Fore Street, meaning you have probably strolled past it before without even realising! The apartment was newly renovated in 2021 and is sure to tick all your boxes for a luxury beachside stay in St Ives. One thing that makes this apartment so special is the self contained annexe just a few seconds from the front door.
- 3 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Pet friendly
- Parking
Penhallow
Neatly tucked away on Mount Zion, Penhallow offers a peaceful retreat in a very central location, just seconds from the beach. You have the idyllic privacy of minimal footfall past your front door and absolutely no traffic as Mount Zion is inaccessible for cars and other motor vehicles (fear not, you can pull up very close by to load and unload our car!) Penhallow was recently renovated and offers a refreshing and luxury take on a Cornish fishing cottage!
- 3 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sea glimpse
- Private courtyard
- Pet friendly
- Parking
6 Sunnyside
Sunny by name, sunny by nature! 6 Sunnyside sits just above the St Ives harbour, which means you’re no more than a few minutes walk away from the waters edge. Or, you can simply enjoy the gorgeous views from the two recliner chairs in the living room, but perhaps you can go one better and sit on your private balcony to soak in all the rays!
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sea views
- Parking
2 Harbour House
Time to book!
Now you’ve had a look at some of our beautiful beaches in St Ives and the wonderful properties we have surrounding them, it’s time to book! You can follow the links above to book directly online or if you still can’t decide (we don’t blame you!), why not give us a call on 01736 806100 and a member of the team can gladly help answer any questions you may have.
Happy holidaying!
Orange Roofs