Frequently voted as one of ‘Britain’s best seaside towns’ - and for very good reason - it’s no surprise that holidays in St Ives are so popular. A maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with art galleries, independent shops and white-washed fisherman’s cottages lead down to a historic harbour where fishermen still land their daily catch.
With bright turquoise water, fine white sand and a mild microclimate, St Ives is a beach lover’s paradise, and thanks to an irregular-shaped coastline, there’s no shortage of sheltered coves and sweeping sandy beaches nearby. Head to Porthmeor for great surf or Porthgwidden and Porthmister for sheltered swimming waters and super soft sand. Other beautiful beaches near St Ives include Carbis Bay, Gwithian, Godrevy and Towans.
With such a spectacular coastline, St Ives holidays are best spent on, in, or by the water. Whether sunbathing, swimming, SUPing, surfing, fishing, kayaking or boating, there’s something for everyone. One of our favourite things to do while on holiday in St Ives is explore the South West Coast Path which runs right through the town. Pick up some pasties, pack a flask of tea and head for Carbis Bay, Lelant or Zennor. The walks along Cornwall’s north west coast are stunning and no matter where you turn you’ll be treated to panoramic sea views and an abundance of wildlife. You’ll often be able to spot a colony of Atlantic grey seals on the aptly named ‘Seal Island’, and if you’re lucky you might also see dolphins, basking sharks and sunfish.
But there’s more to St Ives than its stunning coastline - it’s also the culture capital of the South West. No holiday in St Ives is complete without visiting the hugely popular Tate St Ives, Barbara Hepworth Museum or Leach Pottery. As well as the more famous galleries, St Ives’ narrow streets are filled with independent art galleries, and there’s always a busy schedule of live shows, theatre and festivals. St Ives Museum is also worth a visit where you can learn about the history of the town’s busy fishing port and mining heritage.
From characterful harbourside inns to decadent fine dining restaurants, when it comes to finding places to eat and drink in St Ives you’ll be spoilt for choice. It’s no surprise that fresh fish and seafood fill the menus of many restaurants, but you’ll just as easily find proper Cornish pasties and traditional takeaway fish ‘n’ chips.
Holidays in St Ives aren’t just reserved for the summer as the town transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. In fact, St Ives’ New Year’s Eve celebrations have become one of the most talked about in the country; the streets fill with revellers in flamboyant fancy dress and a mighty firework display lights up the harbour waters.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional family seaside holiday or a cultural minibreak, a holiday in St Ives is hard to beat.
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Things to do
Food & drink
Beaches
