The Best Beaches in St Ives

Porthminster Beach

Porthminster is crescent-shaped and fringed by swaying palm trees, giving it an almost tropical feel, and is the second-largest beach in St Ives. With superb views across to Godrevy Lighthouse and gorgeous golden sand, Porthminster currently holds a Keep Britain Tidy Seaside Award. When the tide is low, the calm shallow waters are perfect for paddling – ideal for a family day at the beach.

Is Porthminster dog friendly? There are dog restrictions in peak season, which means between 15 May and 30 September dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 10 am – 6 pm.

Where to eat: An obvious choice, which means you won’t even have to leave the beach, is Porthminster Café. With plenty of awards under its belt, it’s a relaxed and friendly restaurant with terrace area, serving up delicious seafood and locally-sourced goodness.

Where to park: St Ives Railway Station is the closest car park to Porthminster and only a five-minute walk.

Are there toilets at Porthminster? Yes – public toilets open seasonally from 8 am until dusk (mid-February to early November).

Aerial view of Tate St Ives © Kirstin Prisk

Porthmeor Beach

The wonderful Porthmeor Beach is the largest beach in St Ives and is situated on the north side of the town. The Tate Gallery sits directly on the promenade and the town centre is not far away. Thanks to its westerly aspect Porthmeor is popular with families and surfers alike. A huge unspoilt beach with lovely clean sand and invigorating clear water, there’s something for everyone – from body-boarders to babies splashing in rock pools. Holder of the coveted Blue Flag, it’s edged by rugged headlands, sheltered in a cove and often referred to as St Ives’ premier stretch of sand.

Is Porthmeor dog friendly? Dog restrictions apply between 15 May and 30 September, 10 am – 6 pm.

Where to eat: Just below the Tate Gallery is Porthmeor Beach Café, renowned for its breakfasts and locally-sourced menu served all day.

Where to park: Porthmeor Beach car park is the closest but it’s short-stay with only 30 spaces. Save yourself the hassle and use the St Erth Park & Ride (the former Lelant Saltings site is permanently closed) and enjoy the scenic 10-minute branch-line train straight into town.

Are there toilets at Porthmeor? Yes – toilets in the car park, open seasonally from 8 am until dusk.

Harbour Beach

The town’s central beach is rather aptly named as it sits inside the St Ives’ working harbour. A soft sandy beach is revealed when the tide’s out, and you’re likely to see local fishermen catching fresh seafood. Head here to build sandcastles, take a dip in the calm waters, hunt for sea glass, or just watch the world go by.

Is Harbour Beach dog friendly? Harbour Beach also has dog restrictions in the height of season, which means between 1 July to 31 August dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 10am-6pm.
Where to eat: You’re moments from Harbour Fish and Chips, just watch out for the gullies.
Where to park: The closest car park is Smeaton’s Pier, which is a long stay car park, however there’s only 30 spaces so you’ll want to get there early. Again, we’d suggest getting the train in if you can.
Are there toilets at Harbour?Public toilets are just behind The Sloop Inn and open 8 am – dusk from 15 February to 1 November.

View of Porthgwidden beach at St Ives, Cornwall. Shutterstock, Philip Bird

Porthgwidden Beach

Porthgwidden Beach is just over a five-minute walk from the Harbour. The smallest and most sheltered of St Ives’ beaches, it’s set between Bamaluz Beach and The Island-Pendinas, and is fringed with with pretty beach huts. An east facing beach, if you’re looking to bask in St Ives’ gorgeous sun all day long then this may be the beach for you.

Is Porthgwidden dog friendly? Dog restrictions are in place in the height of summer at Porthgwidden, which means between 1 July to 31 August dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 10am-6pm.
Where to eat: Look no further than Porthgwidden Beach Café, situated right on the beach, diners can expect the freshest seafood alongside local produce.
Where to park: The closest is Island car park, which is a long stay car park with 129 spaces. Be warned, car parks are very busy during the summer months.
Are there toilets at Porthgwidden? Yes – public toilets open 8 am – dusk from 15 February to 1 November.

Bamaluz Bay

Bamaluz Bay is a small stretch between the Harbour and Porthgwidden, an elusive beach which is hidden at high tide. At low tide it’s sandy and pebbly in equal measures. It’s worth noting that this beach is only accessible by quite steep steps, and you’ll want to check the tide times first.

Is Bamaluz Bay dog friendly? Yes – Bamaluz (and nearby Lambeth Walk) are dog-friendly all year round.
Where to eat: There are plenty of places along The Wharf, or why not nip up a side street and head to The Loft Restaurant and Terrace? set a little further back it serves both delicious food and an equally lovely view.
Where to park: You’re not far from Island car park or Smeaton’s Pier, which both get very busy during the summer.
Are there toilets at Bamaluz Bay? The closest toilets are around the corner on Smeaton’s Pier (open 8 am – dusk from 15 February to 1 November).