Rockpools, 23 Carncrows Street

Rockpools occupies a position on Carncrows Street in St Ives, 100m from Porthgwidden Beach - one of the most central and convenient locations in the town for beach access. The cottage sleeps 6 across 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms and has a ground-floor double bedroom with an en suite walk-in shower. One well-behaved pet is welcome. Wi-Fi, dishwasher, and washing machine are provided. There is no parking at the property itself, but daily and weekly pay and display parking is available at the Island Car Park. Saturday changeover.

Porthgwidden is the smallest and most sheltered of St Ives' four main beaches - a compact sandy cove with a beachside cafe that suits families with young children. Porthmeor Beach is 400m, the town's primary surf beach facing the Atlantic. The harbour beach is also 400m in the other direction, with the working fishing harbour and the Tate St Ives gallery between the two.

St Ives town centre has a strong concentration of galleries, independent restaurants, and bakeries within walking distance of Carncrows Street. The St Ives branch railway line connects to St Erth with a scenic estuary run.

Suits groups or families of 6 wanting a central St Ives location with 3 bathrooms, plus close beach access. Less suited to those on a tight budget - St Ives commands a premium, especially in peak season. The house is Grade II listed and spread over four floors, with narrow stairways and hallway in parts, so guests who need step-free access should check with the owner before booking.

For more on beaches and things to do, see St Ives.