Porthminster Beach
- Overview
- More Info
This crescent of golden sand, framed by a glittering bay, has glorious views across to Godrevy Lighthouse, inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s famous novel ‘To the Lighthouse’. With the benefit of the mildest climate in the UK along with waving palm trees and translucent waters, there is a definite tropical feel to the place.
Located just a short walk from the centre of St Ives, the award-winning Blue Flag beach at Porthminster is a family favourite for safe swimming while onshore you can simply relax in a deck chair or try your skill at the mini 18 hole golf course where you can also order up freshly made juices and smoothies. If you’re feeling peckish the beach is also home to the Porthminster Beach Café. Serving up great local food, some of which is grown in their adjoining vegetable garden, the café has won many prestigious awards such as Coast magazine’s Best Coastal Café and The Times’ Best Coastal Restaurant.
Marine Conservation Society Good Beach Guide Recommended 2015 – excellent water quality.
Facilities
- RNLI Lifeguards on duty – May to September
- Amenities in the town centre close by
- Restaurant & takeaway
- Beach shop
- St Ives Watersports
- Pay and display parking nearby on the Station carpark
- Disabled access
Parking
The Station carpark overlooking the beach can get very busy. Try parking at St Erth or Lelant Saltings and enjoy the scenic branch line that runs right into St Ives and a short stroll down to the beach.
Dog-friendly
Dogs are welcome on this beach except between the first Sunday before Easter and 30 September when a seasonal dog ban is in place.
