Carbis Bay
Description
Carbis Bay, nestled on the Cornish coast, is a serene and picturesque haven known for its sheltered, crescent-shaped beach with soft, golden sands. This tranquil bay, part of St Ives Bay, is framed by lush, subtropical vegetation, a testament to Cornwall’s uniquely mild climate. Renowned for its azure, crystal-clear waters, Carbis Bay is a favorite for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding, offering a peaceful alternative to the often bustling St Ives.
The South West Coast Path runs along the bay, providing walkers with breathtaking coastal views. In my own strolls along this path, I’ve been captivated by the panoramic vistas of the Atlantic, often dotted with sailboats and the occasional seal. The area has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, evident in its Blue Flag status, a testament to its clean waters and well-maintained surroundings.
Carbis Bay also holds a special place in local history and culture. It has a small, yet vibrant community that embodies the warm, welcoming spirit of Cornwall. The bay’s proximity to St Ives makes it a perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil retreat, yet desiring easy access to the art, culture, and culinary delights of its more famous neighbour. Whether it’s a leisurely day on the beach, a scenic coastal walk, or a quiet moment in a seaside café, Carbis Bay offers a quintessential Cornish experience.
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About St Ives
A firm favourite with locals and visitors St Ives is a beautiful beach and harbour where tourists flock to enjoy the fabulous views and the harbour. The town sits directly above the harbour and is famous for not just the harbour but the gallery and museum too. St Ives is also well positioned on the north coast and is not too far from many other attractions such as Land’s End and the Minack Theatre. St Ives is also known for its Art culture and its branch of the Tate Gallery. In 2010, a BBC Four film, The Art of Cornwall, presented by James Fox said that the St Ives artists “went on to produce some of the most exhilarating art of the twentieth century…for a few dazzling years this place was as famous as Paris, as exciting as New York and infinitely more progressive than London.”
In more recent years St Ives has been awarded Best Seaside Town by the Guardian in 2007 and Best Seaside Town by The British Travel Awards both in 2010 and 2011. This absolute gem of a town is a must see when in Cornwall. The population of St Ives is around 11,000 but this rises dramatically in the summer months.