Porthgwidden Beach
Small sheltered beach in St Ives between the harbour and Island headland. Calm water, beach hut hire, and a café with bay views. Safe for families.
At a Glance
Beach Type
sandy
Dogs
Seasonal restrictions
Lifeguard
No
Parking
Available
Access
Easy access
Swimming
Generally safe
Facilities
Stay near Porthgwidden Beach
Closest cottage just 100m away
Porthgwidden Beach is a small, sheltered cove in St Ives, set between the Island headland and the working harbour. Its protected position keeps the water calm even when the Atlantic swell reaches the more exposed Porthmeor on the other side of the headland. Since it’s a protected location, families especially like this beach since it offers a fun and safe space for kids to play in the shallow seas and mild waves. Sandcastle construction, beachcombing, and sunbathing are all excellent activities at the beach.
Excellent facilities at Porthgwidden Beach guarantee an easy and comfortable stay. The café and restaurant directly above the beach provide meals and drinks with unobstructed views across the bay. There are small parking lots and public facilities close by, and the town of St Ives has more services within a short stroll. Rentable beach huts enhance the allure and practicality of the beach for those wishing to spend an entire day there.
Other well-known St Ives attractions, such as the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and the well-known Tate St Ives art gallery, are easily accessible by foot from Porthgwidden Beach. There are further options for exploration and enjoyment at the neighboring beaches of Porthmeor and Porthminster.
Make a day of it
Things to do near Porthgwidden Beach
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
- Can I take my dog to Porthgwidden Beach?
- Dogs are welcome at Porthgwidden Beach outside the summer restriction period. Most Cornwall beaches with seasonal rules ban dogs between Easter/May and September, typically 10am to 6pm. Check local signage for exact dates.
- Is Porthgwidden Beach lifeguarded?
- No, Porthgwidden Beach does not have RNLI lifeguard cover. Take extra care when swimming and check tide times before your visit.
- Is there parking at Porthgwidden Beach?
- Yes, there is parking at or near Porthgwidden Beach. Arrive early in peak season as spaces fill quickly.
- What facilities are at Porthgwidden Beach?
- Porthgwidden Beach has cafe, parking. Facilities may be seasonal - some close outside summer.
- Where is Porthgwidden Beach?
- Porthgwidden Beach is on the west coast of Cornwall, near St Ives.
- How do I get to Porthgwidden Beach?
- Set your sat nav for St Ives and follow local signs from there. There is a car park at the beach. Cornwall beach car parks fill early in peak season, so aim to arrive before mid-morning in summer.
- Where can I stay near Porthgwidden Beach?
- There are several holiday properties near Porthgwidden Beach, with the closest just 100 metres away. Prices start from £693 per week.
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