St Ives Harbour Beach is a beautiful, sheltered cove located in the heart of St Ives, a charming seaside town in Cornwall, England. A sandy beach with a gradual slope into the sea, the water is generally calm and great for swimming, but it can get a bit choppy on windy days. The beach is surrounded by the picturesque harbour, with fishing boats and pleasure craft moored up alongside the quayside.
There are a number of facilities for hire available on the beach, including deck chairs, windbreaks and parasols. There are also public toilets, showers and changing rooms available for use.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy on and around St Ives Harbour Beach. You can take a dip in the sea, build sandcastles or go rock pooling with the kids. You can also hire a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline or take a boat trip out to Seal Island to see the local seals.
For those who enjoy a bit of culture, you can take a stroll around the harbour and admire the work of local artists, or visit the nearby Tate St Ives, which showcases some of the best contemporary art in the country.
Nearby places to eat and drink
There is a wide range of places to eat and drink near St Ives Beach. Popular options include.
The Rum and Crab Shack: A cosy little restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere, serving up some of the freshest seafood around. The menu includes everything from lobster and crab to mussels and scallops, and there's a great selection of rum-based cocktails to try too.
Yallah Coffee Kiosk: A popular spot for coffee lovers, Yallah Coffee Kiosk serves up some of the best espresso-based drinks in town. They also have a great selection of baked goods and light bites to enjoy on the go.
Porthminster Kitchen: A stylish and sophisticated restaurant with stunning views across the harbour serving up a seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes everything from seafood to vegetarian dishes, and there's a great selection of cocktails and wine to choose from.
Parking
St Ives Harbour Beach is located in the heart of St Ives, so parking can be a challenge during peak season. There are several car parks nearby, including the Island Car Park, the Barnoon Car Park, and the St Ives Station Car Park. If you prefer to travel by public transport, the St Ives train station is just a short walk away from the beach.
