What are the Differences Between the St Ives Beaches?
An Explorers Guide to St Ives, Cornwall: Where to Eat, Shop & Wander
Taking adventures one beach at a time
Cradled by the Atlantic and lit by soft Cornish light, St Ives is more than a postcard perfect coastal town, it’s a place to explore. Known for its art, soul-soothing views, and sandy paths, St Ives has a way of letting you breathe a little deeper.
The Luma staff are huge fans of St Ives, with one member visiting every year for over 15 years! Whether you're here for the golden hours or staying a little longer, here’s our staff curated guide to where to eat, sip, shop, and walk in St Ives, Cornwall.
St Ives, Cornwall, is home to five main beaches, each with its own personality and charm:
Porthmeor Beach: The go-to for surfers and sunset seekers. It’s backed by the Tate St Ives and has a bold, Atlantic energy.
Wild, open, and always moving. Porthmeor is where the Atlantic meets art, with Tate St Ives at your back and endless ocean ahead. It’s the place to breathe deeper, chase waves and body-board, or sit still on the sand and watch the surfers catch gold-lit lines. Mornings are peaceful, evenings electric. This is where we go to reset.
Porthminster Beach: A calmer bay with golden sand, palm trees, and a more relaxed vibe. Great for swimming and beachside dining.
A softer rhythm lives here. Palm-lined and sun-warmed, Porthminster curves gently around the bay like it’s holding space for you. Swim, read, eat barefoot at the café — time feels slower on this side of town. We love it for its stillness, its sparkle, and those quiet, early swims before the day unfolds. If you want to see turquoise calm seas and soft, white sand in England, this is where to be
Harbour Beach: Right in the heart of town, this beach appears at low tide and is perfect for people-watching with an ice cream in hand.
Boats bob and gulls drift. Harbour Beach isn't just sand and sea, it’s a living backdrop. Kids play, artists sketch, couples wander with cones in hand. It’s spontaneous, nostalgic, and full of everyday joy. Look out for the seals at high tide, they love to play around the end of the harbour wall. We love it because this place is picturesque and bustling with life at all times of the day.
Porthgwidden Beach: Tucked beneath the headland, this smaller, sheltered cove feels like a secret escape.
Small, sheltered, with beach huts painted in sun-faded blues. The sea is calm here and perfect for floating and playing. We come for quiet mornings, lunches with a view, and that feeling of finding somewhere that still feels undiscovered. In the evenings, this is where you'll find the real laid-back, sandy toes and Prosecco celebration vibes. Marketing Lucy's personal favourite!
Bamaluz Beach: A dog-friendly spot between the harbour and Porthgwidden, often missed by visitors, but loved by locals and their four-legged companions.
Hidden and honest. You won’t find sun-beds or signs, just tide-washed rocks, a curve of sand, and usually a happy dog or two chasing waves. Bamaluz is the beach for when you want space, simplicity, and a reminder that the best things are often unmarked on maps.
Where to Eat: Sea Air & Clean Plates
1. Porthmeor Beach Café
A local classic with a calm energy. Expect fresh seafood, incredible views and friendly staff. This place is considered a treat at anytime of the day, with the evening sunsets being a particular favourite.
2. The Loft Restaurant & Terrace
Tucked away from the crowds. Elevated Cornish dishes, a relaxed terrace, and the kind of spot you linger at after dessert.
3. Blas Burgerworks
Thoughtfully sourced, ethically made, and really good. If you like your burgers with a conscience and a side of local beer, this is your place. It has a snug but lively atmosphere, with small tables fighting for space but flavours that please everyone.
For Coffee & Unplanned Afternoons
1. Olives Café
Small, warm, and full of heart. Known for homemade cakes, artisan coffee, and simple breakfast done well. A local’s favourite.
2. Scoff Troff Café
Laid-back and generous. Big plates, good energy, and that unmistakable Cornish charm - Hugely popular for breakfast, be prepared to queue up early.
3. Bier Huis Grand Cafe
Tucked along St Andrews street, this place is bursting with character. From happy and excitable staff, endless guest and Belgian biers, fantastic food and a little 'Shoe hostage' procedure for certain glasses! Bier Huis provides a brilliant escape from the summer crowds, you will find a new, intriguing object on the walls every times you visit.
Where to Shop: Unique Pieces, Thoughtful Finds
1. The St Ives Co.
Beach-inspired and sustainable. Recycled sea plastic candles, natural fabrics, and minimal souvenirs with purpose.
2. Porthminster Gallery
Contemporary Cornish art housed in a clean, light-filled space. If you’re bringing a piece of St Ives home, make it this.
3. Laff Kids Clothes
Unique blend of boutique designer kids clothes from brands such as Kite, Toby Tiger, Mayoral and Batela. It is a shop bursting with cute and fun designs.
Where to Walk: Follow the Light
1. St Ives to Carbis Bay
A short walk that feels like a dream. Think golden sand, turquoise sea, and the gentle rhythm of the coast path.
2. Clodgy Point
Wild and windswept. This one’s for those who like their walks with a bit of drama (and the occasional seal sighting).
3. Town Trail
Wander through the town’s layered past from old artist studios to sun-bleached alleyways. St Ives has stories in its stone.
A Place to Return To
St Ives isn’t a town you check off a list, it’s one you return to. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always another cove, another coffee, another quiet moment waiting.
Bring your shades, take your time, and let the light lead. Or even explore wearing our St Ives style named after this incredible place.
The St Ives Collection
