Best Things to Do in St. Ives: Beaches, Art, Food, and More!

St. Ives is a charming seaside town that has a little bit of everything for everyone. Feel the sea breeze in your hair, the sun on your skin and the sand between your toes, St. Ives is a town that will steal your heart, as many have experienced first-hand.

Best Beaches in St. Ives

One of the top attractions in St. Ives is its superb beaches, perfect for those looking for a day of fun in the sun or a peaceful retreat by the sea.

Porthmeor Beach is one of the most popular beaches in St. Ives, and it’s perfect for surfing enthusiasts. It offers stunning views of the ocean and plenty of waves, making it an excellent spot for both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, so visitors can grab a bite to eat after a day of surfing.

If you prefer sunbathing and swimming, Porthminster Beach is an excellent spot to relax with family and friends. It’s a large sandy beach that offers plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is also known for its crystal-clear water, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. There are plenty of amenities on the beach, including cafes and restaurants, so visitors can enjoy a full day of relaxation by the sea.

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Porthmeor Beach (top), Harbour Sand (middle), and Porthgwidden Beach (far right).

In addition to these two beaches, there are several other stunning beaches in St. Ives that are worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a secluded cove or a bustling family-friendly beach, St. Ives has something to offer. Some of the other popular beaches in the area include Carbis Bay, Porthgwidden Beach, and Harbour Beach.

Porthgwidden Beach

History and Heritage

Beyond its beaches, St. Ives is a town rich in art and culture. Visitors can explore its artistic heritage by visiting the Tate St. Ives, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary art. Alternatively, you can check out one of the many smaller galleries showcasing local artists.

For those looking for a slice of history, the town museum provides fascinating exhibits on local industries and fishing, offering a glimpse into St. Ives’ past.

Food and Drink

Additionally, the town boasts a variety of delectable food options, ranging from freshly caught seafood to traditional Cornish pasties and cream teas. Below are just a few of our favourites spots:

Porthminster Beach Café: This award-winning café has a stunning beachfront location and serves up fresh seafood dishes, as well as tasty vegetarian and vegan options.

The Seafood Café: As the name suggests, this restaurant specialises in seafood dishes and uses only the freshest ingredients. Their menu includes everything from classic fish and chips to lobster thermidor, and of course, a selection of Cornish Ice Creams to name just a few dishes.

CREDIT: Porthminster Beach Café

The Cornish Deli: This deli is a fantastic place to stock up on local produce and artisanal goods. With the option of dining in or taking away, You can grab a delicious sandwich, a slice of homemade cake, or a cup of coffee to enjoy on the go.

Activities and Adventure

St. Ives offers numerous activities beyond its art, history, and food. Visitors can take a boat trip from the harbour to see the local seal colony or try their hand at surfing with one of the many surf schools in town like the St Ives Surf School. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take a walk along the coast on the South West Coast Path and enjoy breathtaking views of the town’s surroundings.

And when the sun goes down, St. Ives comes alive with its lively nightlife scene. There are plenty of pubs and bars to choose from, and live music is a regular occurrence.

St. Ives September Festival

Looking for an exciting cultural experience in St Ives? Look no further than the St Ives September Festival! Since its inception in 1978, the St Ives September Festival has grown into one of Cornwall’s largest and most diverse arts and music festivals, attracting visitors from around the world. This two-week celebration of the arts, taking place every September, features an incredible array of events, including music concerts, theatre performances, art exhibitions, workshops, and talks.

But the festival isn’t just about indoor events. Street performances and outdoor activities are also a major part of the experience, making it a lively and dynamic celebration of creativity and culture. And with an emphasis on folk, jazz, and world music, the festival offers something for everyone.

But don’t just take our word for it! As a visitor to St. Ives, you’ll find that locals are always happy to share their own experiences and insider tips. Best of all, our luxury resort Gwel an Mor is just a 30-minute drive from this gorgeous town.

Our Resort

Our luxury resort Gwel an Mor offers luxury holiday lodges, many with their own private hot tubs, as well as fantastic facilities and exceptional service. Dive into our heated indoor pool, get pampered in our Wellbeing Spa, meet our animals on a wildlife experience at Feadon Farm, indulge with a meal in the Terrace Bar & Restaurant, test your golf skills on our Famous Nine Course or let your kids burn off some steam at our indoor play area Base Camp… our luxury holiday resort has everything you need to enjoy the ultimate Cornwall getaway.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to St. Ives and experience the town for yourself. You’ll soon discover that it’s a place that will leave you with a lifetime of memories.