Beaches in St Ives - Saltings On Porthmeor

St Ives Beaches

St Ives is rare in having so many different beaches within walking distance of one another. From wide surf beaches and sheltered coves to quiet tidal sands, each has its own character, view and best time of day.

Porthkidney Beach

Follow the South West Coast path from Saltings and you can explore all of the above and you'll eventually reach Porthkidney, a long stretch of quiet peaceful beach, backed by dunes and leading to the Hayle estuary.

Lifeguards - 18th July - 6th September
Walking distance - 1 - 1.5 hours

Carbis Bay Beach

Tucked a little further around the coastline is another white sand beach, sheltered from Southerly and Westerly winds it is a popular swim spot. Home to Carbis Bay Hotel for food and drink options.

Lifeguards - 18th July - 6th September
Walking distance - 30-45 minutes

Porthminster Beach

It has a softer, more sheltered feel than Porthmeor, with pale sand, calmer water and beautiful views across to Godrevy Lighthouse. Home to the iconic Porthminster Beach Cafe and Mor Holan Sauna, it is also where you'll find St Ives Watersports for paddleboarding and kayak tours and hire.

Lifeguards - 16th May - 27th September
Walking distance - 10-12 minutes

Harbour Beach

Right in the heart of St Ives, with fishing boats, cafés and the comings and goings of the harbour all around it. Because it is a working harbour and a tidal beach, it is better for sitting, paddling and soaking up the view than serious swimming.

Bamaluz

A small, tidal beach between the harbour and Porthgwidden, with rocks, harbour views and a quieter feel than the main sands.

Lifeguards - None
Walking distance - 5 minutes

Porthgwidden

Tucked away and often missed, a great place to shelter from Westerly or Northerly winds and a beautiful place to watch sunrise. A lovely family spot and often calm but please note there is no lifeguard service here. Porthgwidden Beach Cafe is a lovely little spot, perfect for lunch with a view.

Lifeguards - None
Walking distance - 5 minutes

Porthmeor

On your doorstep is Porthmeor beach. A very special beach for sunsets, evening chills and the best surf in St Ives. You'll also find the renowned St Ives Surf School, a well regarded and friendly set up who'll help you get to your feet. Porthmeor Beach Cafe is a great spot all year round for breakfast, lunch or dinner and we recommend checking out West Beach in summer.

Lifeguards - 3rd April to 1st November
Walking distance - seconds

Read what our guests are saying about Saltings on Porthmeor

Firsthand accounts of the unforgettable experiences at Saltings on Porthmeor.

Read More 5 Star reviews

It’s hard to praise this holiday let too much. It’s in absolutely the most perfect position, directly overlooking the beach on a quiet street, a short walk from the best St Ives has to offer from restaurants and pubs to art galleries and museums. The atmosphere in the apartment is really warm and comfortable, the place is full of lovely pictures and the most personal touches. It’s been thoughtfully designed, but not to strike you at first glance, but to emerge in your consciousness when you stop to think about it. And, it’s superbly well equipped and furnished to guarantee a comfortable and restful stay.

David

Amazing stay, fantastic location, and friendly hosts - we couldn't have asked for more. The sea views are to die for. We spent so many hours in that window seat, watching the dogs on the beach, the storm over the sea, and the sunset over the town. When you get bored of that, you can walk barefoot for the 20 meters to the beach, and wander across the rockpools searching for crabs. The property itself is really spacious and well set up. My mum walked in & her jaw dropped - it's just so much bigger & airier than the photos do justice to. You can tell that the family have used the property themselves for years, and have thought of everything - labelled drawers, well-equipped kitchen, and it even has fast Wifi (not expected at the tip of Cornwall!) Finally, you're in the middle of town. Turn the corner to a nationally rated art gallery (Penwith); 2 mins walk to the harbour; 3 mins walk to Fore street. Beautifully designed yet welcoming, with sea and town together. We'll be back!

Mark

Tranquil break in the most beautiful place- looking out over the sand and sea. This is the most special place. Makes your heart sing. Spacious and well set up with everything you could need for a Cornish retreat. We love it here! Thank you for having us again.

Josie Wood