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

This is the place from an early coffee throughout the day to talk life and the universe. Watching the changing light on the giant day bed hanging over the sand, is completely addictive. As dusk darkens reflections of friends making dinner get stronger in the glass and finally you turn from the sea to the nights festivities. Both living space at Old Saltings and Upper Saltings are the biggest rooms I have had the chance to enjoy. This means there is room for everything to happen all at once without friction. It’s like living in a film.

Cany

We come back here every year for a very simple reason, because it is simply unbeatable. The location, the ambiance, the space, it is truly our happy place. The team are so welcoming, St Ives is a complete joy, and if you're lucky enough to find a free week, book it now, you won't be disappointed. We are truly in love with The Saltings, a holiday gem.

Geoff Atkinson