Beaches in St Ives Bay

Porthmeor Beach

Porthmeor beach is the largest beach in St Ives. Due to its westerly facing, it is popular with families and surfers alike. During the summer the waves are generally more mellow, ideal for family body boarding or surf lessons at the Surf School which runs all summer. Autumn then brings in the Atlantic weather systems which can produce excellent surfing conditions, best watched from the cafe.

Porthmeor Beach has been awarded a Blue Flag and Seaside Award for 2018.

Porthmeor Beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season.

Harbour Beach

The Harbour Beaches can be found at the Smeatons pier end of the Wharf and beside the old slipway. These are increasingly popular and of course are right in the heart of the town (although all the beaches are never far away).

From here you can take a tour of the bay under your own steam in a self drive hire motor boat or relax and take in the view.

With it's history of fishing and the sea, St Ives is also very proud of it's Lifeboats, which look after the users of the sea and coastline, and are celebrated each year on Lifeboat day in August.

Porthminster Beach

Porthminster Beach is a family beach. Retaining the 1930's feel, the beach has a putting green and chalets and is well protected by the town and piers. The beach has cafes at each end and boasts one of St Ives' most popular restaurants where you can enjoy a fine meal overlooking the beach.

Porthminster Beach has been awarded a Blue Flag and Seaside Award for 2018.

Porthminster Beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season. Beach wheelchair hire is available.

Porthgwidden Beach

Porthgwidden Beach is a much smaller beach, nestling between 'the Island' and the old pier. Usually the quietest beach in the town it is ideal for those seeking a little peace and quiet.

Patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season.

Carbis Bay Beach

Carbis Bay Beach serves those living and staying in Carbis Bay, being particularly well sheltered by Porthminster Point. You may also see the St Ives Gig Club practising or as here, holding a race day against teams from around Cornwall. Gig rowing is a traditional Cornish sport which is currently undergoing a huge revival, with many towns in Cornwall now having their own gig club.

Carbis Bay Beach has been awarded a Blue Flag and Seaside Award for 2018.

St Ives Surf School

Based on Porthmeor and Porthminster beaches, St Ives Surf School are one of the most prestigious surf schools in Cornwall offering surf lessons, Kayak tours, Coasteering, stand up paddle boarding and a wide range of equipment hire for all ages and abilities.

For more info call 01736 793938

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOqZG5JmQrs