Porthgwidden Beach Guide
Discover the beauty of Porthgwidden Beach and its inviting golden sands. Located on the north coast of Cornwall in...
by Katy Depledge / Beaches
St Ives, the dazzling jewel in Cornwall’s crown, is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes in the sea, build sandcastles, or bask in the sunshine, these St Ives beaches offer the perfect setting.
The inviting climate and rolling waves of St Ives attract visitors from around the globe all year round. Nestled on the Atlantic coast in northwest Cornwall, the main bay forms a shallow crescent shape, covering 4 miles of breathtaking shoreline.
Discover the finest beaches in St Ives to make your next holiday truly unforgettable…
True to its name, Harbour Beach is situated in the bustling harbour of St Ives. This sandy beach is flanked by shimmering waters on one side and a lively assortment of shops, galleries, cafes, and arcades on the other.
It is the quintessential seaside town experience. Enjoy the view of boats bobbing on the water, perhaps with a Cornish ice cream in hand—just watch out for the seagulls, as they’re known to steal both pasties and ice cream!
This beach is perfect for those who enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a working harbour. You can watch fishermen bring in their daily catch or take a boat trip to explore the coastline from the sea. There is always a lot going on here, making it an excellent spot for people-watching and soaking up the local culture.
Located beneath the iconic Tate St Ives, one of the best galleries in St Ives, Porthmeor Beach is a golden sandy haven popular with families. This Blue Flag beach boasts numerous facilities, including a café, surf school, and lifeguards during peak holiday times.
This St Ives beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, thanks to the Atlantic swells. The St Ives Surf School offers lessons for all levels, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find the right waves here.
The beach is also a fantastic spot for sunbathing and picnicking, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sunshine. With the Tate St Ives providing a cultural backdrop, you can easily combine a day of beach fun with a visit to this world-class gallery.
Dog lovers will appreciate the next entry on our guide to St Ives beaches, Lambeth Walk Beach, which is dog-friendly all year round. While it’s inaccessible at high tide, low tide reveals a sandy and rocky beach that connects to nearby Porthminster Beach.
This beach offers a more rugged and natural setting compared to some of the more commercialised beaches. It’s an excellent spot for rock pooling and exploring marine life, making it a hit with children and nature enthusiasts.
The proximity to Porthminster Beach allows for a pleasant walk between the two when the tide is out, giving you the chance to experience both beaches in one visit.
Porthminster Beach is a large, sheltered sandy beach ideal for families. Conveniently located next to St Ives train station, it also has a car park that fills up quickly in the busy season.
With its calm, clear waters, Porthminster Beach is perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. This St Ives beach has a gentle slope and a sheltered position that make it particularly safe for children.
There’s also a lovely café and restaurant right on the beach, serving delicious local seafood and other treats, making it easy to spend the whole day here without needing to leave for refreshments. Discover more great places to eat in our guide to the best restaurants in St Ives.
Bamaluz Beach, nestled between the harbour and Porthgwidden Beach, offers a quiet retreat with sandy shores and views of the remnants of the Wheal Dream tin mine. While the high walls can block the sun and the beach shrinks at high tide, it remains dog-friendly all year round and is often overlooked by visitors.
This beach is ideal for those seeking a more secluded and peaceful spot. The historical remnants of the tin mine add an intriguing element to your beach day, allowing you to ponder the rich mining history of the area. Plus, St Ives Museum is nearby, adding a touch of history to your visit.
Bamaluz Beach is a hidden gem, providing a serene escape from the more crowded beaches nearby.
Smaller than some of its neighbours, Porthgwidden Beach is a sheltered sandy spot perfect for soaking up the sun. A quality café is nearby, making it a lovely spot for a beach day.
Porthgwidden Beach is particularly known for its picturesque setting, framed by cliffs and offering a cosy, intimate atmosphere. The beach is great for swimming and paddling, with clear waters and gentle waves. Porthgwidden Beach Cafe is highly rated, serving up fresh seafood and other delicious meals, so you can enjoy a leisurely lunch with a beautiful sea view.
Need a tranquil escape after exploring the beautiful beaches of St Ives? Carbis Bay Holidays offers the ideal accommodations tailored just for you.
Delve into our stunning selection of St Ives holiday cottages or contact us for more information. We’re dedicated to making your St Ives holiday truly exceptional!
by Katy Depledge / Beaches
Hi, I'm Katy and I joined Sykes in February 2020. I love travelling the UK and exploring our beautiful country. From the mighty...
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