Hiding on the southwest coast of Cornwall is a seaside gem that continues to win the title of one of the UK's most beloved holiday destinations. With its whitewashed cottages, turquoise waters and golden sandy beaches, St Ives was once again welcomed as one of the best seaside towns in the UK.
At the heart of its charm is the coastline square that does not deviate from the Caribbean area. With soft golden sand and clear blue water, it is no wonder that visitors are often shady that such a place is present in the soil of the house.
A TripAdvisor reviewer wrote:
Perfect beaches for both sunbathing and surfing include the lively promenade, the famous Tate St Ives, and many cafes where you can enjoy pasty and cream tea while enjoying ocean views.
Beach is recognized for its outstanding water quality, safety and environmental standards both at the 2024 Blue Flag and Seaside Awards.
These honorable accolades are managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Environmental Education Foundation.
Blue Flags are awarded to beaches that meet strict standards, including excellent water quality, safety services, environmental education and management.
But Porthmeor is just the beginning. St. Ives boasts several other great beaches, including Porthminster, Harbour Beach and Calbis Bay.
One visitor said of Calbis Bay: “It's absolutely fantastic. It's calm, clean and perfect for kids. I've come back three times during my trip.”
The town itself is the perfect mix of postcards from a narrow winding street, independent shops and art studios that speaks to its creative roots. St. Ives has long been an artist's heaven, but today it remains a cultural hotspot with galleries, festivals and live music throughout the year.
What sets St Ive apart is its ability to feel both vibrant and quiet.
Despite its growing popularity, especially in the summer, it retains the charm of a traditional fishing village. As one TripAdvisor reviewer summed up, “It's everything you want from a British seaside town, but it has the vibe of a European resort.”
