St Ives is unique when it comes to its artistic heritage and picturesque fishing town environs. So it’s fitting that each of its beaches are also unique. Porthmeor is situated right next to the town centre so it’s convenient and popular with holidaymakers and casual surfers. Porthminster is further out and looks and feels like a beautiful tropical paradise. Porthgwidden, however, is altogether different again.
Porthgwidden Beach is St Ives’ smallest stretch of golden sands. It’s really well sheltered and has become popular with families over the years as its sheltered nature makes it an excellent sun trap on a hot day. It’s not right on the town’s doorstep like Porthmeor but it’s pretty darn close, nestled next to ‘The Island’, which is not an island at all and is in fact a peninsula that was once home to a promontory fort. ‘The Island’ is worth a stroll around after soaking up all the rays on the delightful little beach.
Car parking is ample around town but get up early to find a decent spot. And do try the coffee shops and restaurants around the edges of Porthgwidden as, on the whole, they are really good. Also, rent one of the nearby beach huts from the local council, if you fancy a place to change. Dogs can enjoy the beach throughout the year, except during the summer, however do note that there’s no lifeguard cover here so surfers should head elsewhere. Porthgwidden is best for families who like a solid serving of hot sun and cool waters to go with their local Cornish ice-cream at lunch.