St Ives Harbour, Cornwall - famous for its turquoise waters, golden beaches and picturesque fishing harbour.
Planning a holiday to St Ives in Cornwall in 2027? Whether you're organising a family summer holiday, a romantic weekend away or a get-together with friends and relatives, St Ives is one of Cornwall's most beautiful coastal destinations.
Famous for its golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, picturesque fishing harbour and narrow streets filled with independent shops, cafés and art galleries, St Ives has been attracting holidaymakers for generations.
But there's much more to St Ives than its beautiful beaches.
From spectacular coastal walks and fascinating art galleries to boat trips, local attractions and wonderful places to stay, there's plenty to discover throughout the year.
In our St Ives 2027 Visitor Guide, we'll explore the best things to see and do, along with our selected hotels, holiday cottages and family-friendly holiday parks. We'll also share practical advice about parking, travelling to St Ives and planning your holiday.
And if you'd like to see what St Ives is really like before visiting, we've filmed a 4K walking tour of the town for our sister YouTube channel, UK Walking Tours.
Explore St Ives Before You Visit - Watch Our 4K Walking Tour
One of the best ways to get a feel for St Ives before your holiday is to explore its streets, harbour and coastline virtually.
We've filmed a walking tour of St Ives for our sister YouTube channel, UK Walking Tours, capturing the sights and atmosphere of this beautiful Cornish destination.
Whether you're planning your first visit, remembering a previous holiday or simply enjoying the scenery, our walking tour lets you experience St Ives from wherever you are.
Explore St Ives in Cornwall with our 4K walking tour, featuring the picturesque harbour, beautiful beaches, The Island and charming streets. Filmed by UK Walking Tours, our sister YouTube channel.
If you enjoy exploring beautiful destinations around the UK, we'd love you to subscribe to UK Walking Tours for more coastal towns, villages and scenic walks.
1. Explore the Beautiful St Ives Harbour
The harbour is the heart of St Ives and one of the best places to begin exploring this beautiful Cornish town.
Surrounded by traditional fishermen's cottages, cafés, restaurants and independent shops, the harbour is a wonderful place to wander and soak up the atmosphere.
At low tide, a large stretch of golden sand appears within the harbour, while colourful fishing boats rest on the sand.
When the tide returns, the harbour transforms into a bustling waterfront scene, with boats floating alongside the historic harbour walls.
Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoy the views across St Ives Bay or stop for a coffee overlooking the water.
There are plenty of opportunities for photography, particularly around the harbour walls and narrow streets leading away from the waterfront.
Our tip: If you're spending the whole day in St Ives, try to see the harbour at both high and low tide. The changing scenery is part of what makes this town so special.
2. Discover the Best Beaches in St Ives
One of the biggest attractions of St Ives is its collection of beautiful sandy beaches, several of which are within walking distance of the town centre.
Porthmeor Beach
Porthmeor is one of the best-known beaches in St Ives, famous for its golden sands, Atlantic waves and surfing.
The beach is popular with families, surfers and visitors who simply want to relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
It's also overlooked by Tate St Ives, making it easy to combine a beach visit with a little culture.
Porthminster Beach, St Ives - golden sands and beautiful views across St Ives Bay.
Porthminster Beach
Porthminster is another stunning beach, located close to St Ives railway station.
With soft golden sand and beautiful views across St Ives Bay towards Godrevy Lighthouse, it's a fantastic location for a relaxing beach day.
The beach is particularly attractive on a sunny day, when the water can appear almost Mediterranean in colour.
Porthgwidden Beach
Tucked away near The Island, Porthgwidden is a smaller, sheltered beach with a more intimate atmosphere.
Its location makes it a lovely place to stop while exploring the headland and surrounding coastal paths.
Harbour Beach
Situated right in the centre of town, Harbour Beach is a popular spot for visitors who want to enjoy the sand without venturing far from the shops and restaurants.
At low tide, the sandy area becomes much larger, offering beautiful views back towards the waterfront.
Good to know: Some beaches have seasonal dog restrictions, and lifeguard services vary by beach and time of year. Check the latest information before your 2027 visit.
3. Wander Through the Charming Streets of St Ives
One of the best things to do in St Ives is simply explore.
Exploring the charming cobbled streets and independent shops of St Ives, Cornwall.
The town is filled with narrow streets, traditional whitewashed cottages, independent shops and fascinating little corners waiting to be discovered.
Fore Street is one of the main shopping streets, offering everything from local artwork and gifts to clothing boutiques and traditional Cornish food.
The Digey is another particularly attractive area, with its narrow lanes and historic buildings.
Rather than rushing between attractions, we'd recommend allowing plenty of time to wander.
You'll discover interesting galleries, small courtyards and beautiful glimpses of the sea between the buildings.
And of course, no visit to Cornwall would be complete without enjoying a traditional Cornish pasty or ice cream!
4. Visit Tate St Ives
St Ives has a remarkable artistic heritage, attracting painters, sculptors and other creative figures throughout the twentieth century.
One of the town's most famous attractions is Tate St Ives, overlooking Porthmeor Beach.
The gallery celebrates modern and contemporary art, including works connected with the artists who helped establish St Ives as an internationally recognised artistic centre.
Even if you're not normally an art gallery visitor, it's worth considering during your holiday.
Check the official Tate website for 2027 opening times, exhibitions and admission prices.
5. Explore the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
Another fascinating attraction is the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.
Barbara Hepworth was one of Britain's most influential sculptors and spent many years living and working in St Ives.
Today, visitors can explore her former home and studio, along with a beautiful garden displaying her sculptures.
It's a peaceful and interesting place to visit, particularly if you're interested in art, history or the cultural heritage of Cornwall.
6. Walk Around The Island
Despite its name, The Island is actually a grassy headland connected to St Ives.
Located between Porthmeor and Porthgwidden beaches, it's one of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.
A walk around the headland provides wonderful views across the Atlantic Ocean, St Ives Bay and the town itself.
You'll also find the historic St Nicholas Chapel standing prominently above the sea.
St Nicholas Chapel on The Island, one of St Ives' historic landmarks overlooking the Cornish coastline.
It's a lovely place for photography, a peaceful walk or simply taking in the beautiful Cornish scenery.
7. Enjoy the South West Coast Path
St Ives is a fantastic destination for anyone who enjoys coastal walking.
The South West Coast Path passes through the area, offering some spectacular scenery.
One popular option is to walk towards Carbis Bay, enjoying views across the coastline and surrounding beaches.
Carbis Bay itself is famous for its beautiful sandy beach and sheltered setting.
For more adventurous walkers, the coast path west of St Ives towards Zennor offers dramatic landscapes, although this route is more challenging and involves uneven terrain.
Always choose a walk suitable for your fitness and experience, and wear appropriate footwear.
8. Take a Boat Trip from St Ives Harbour
Seeing St Ives from the water is a wonderful way to appreciate its coastal setting.
Boat trips operate from the harbour, with options including sightseeing cruises, coastal excursions and wildlife-watching experiences.
Some trips head towards Seal Island, where visitors may have the opportunity to spot seals in their natural environment.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and departures depend on weather and sea conditions.
If you're visiting during the warmer months, a boat trip could be a memorable addition to your St Ives holiday.
Discover Activities and Experiences in St Ives
Looking for something special to do during your 2027 holiday?
You can explore boat trips, guided experiences and other activities through GetYourGuide.
9. Enjoy the Restaurants, Cafés and Traditional Cornish Food
St Ives has a wonderful selection of places to eat and drink.
Whether you're looking for fresh seafood, a relaxed lunch overlooking the harbour, a traditional Cornish cream tea or a simple takeaway, there's plenty of choice.
The historic Sloop Inn is one of the town's best-known pubs, overlooking the harbour.
You'll also find independent cafés, restaurants and takeaway outlets throughout the narrow streets.
During busy holiday periods, it's worth booking ahead if there's a particular restaurant you'd like to visit.
And a word of warning: keep an eye on the seagulls if you're eating outside!
Where to Stay in St Ives in 2027
Choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference to your Cornish holiday.
Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a spacious cottage for a family gathering or a holiday park with plenty of activities for the children, St Ives and the surrounding area offer some fantastic options.
We've selected nine properties across three accommodation categories to help you start planning.
Our Top 3 Hotels in St Ives for 2027
1. Harbour Hotel St Ives - Best for Sea Views and Spa Breaks
Overlooking the beautiful Porthminster Beach, Harbour Hotel St Ives is a wonderful choice for couples and visitors looking for a relaxing coastal getaway.
The beautiful sea view from our room at Harbour Hotel St Ives, overlooking Porthminster Beach and St Ives Bay.
The hotel enjoys spectacular views across St Ives Bay and is conveniently located for exploring the town's harbour, beaches, shops and restaurants.
Guests can enjoy the hotel's HarSPA facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and treatment rooms.
There's also a restaurant, bar and terrace overlooking the coastline.
Best for: Romantic breaks, spa holidays and visitors wanting to explore St Ives on foot.
Check Harbour Hotel St Ives Prices & Availability for 2027
2. Tregenna Castle Resort - Best for Family Holidays
Set within approximately 72 acres of beautiful grounds overlooking St Ives Bay, Tregenna Castle Resort offers a very different holiday experience.
The resort combines traditional hotel accommodation with extensive leisure facilities, making it particularly appealing for families.
Facilities include indoor and seasonal outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course and attractive gardens.
There are also restaurants and bars on site, along with self-catering accommodation options.
Its elevated setting provides spectacular views, although visitors should be prepared for an uphill walk when returning from St Ives.
Best for: Family holidays, longer stays and visitors looking for a resort with plenty of facilities.
Check Tregenna Castle Resort Prices & Availability for 2027
3. Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate - Best for Luxury Beachfront Holidays
For a special occasion or luxury coastal escape, Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate is one of the area's most distinctive places to stay.
The private terrace and beautiful sea views from our luxury Beach Lodge at Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate, Cornwall.
Situated directly beside the beautiful sands of Carbis Bay, the estate enjoys an impressive beachfront location with spectacular views across St Ives Bay.
Accommodation options include hotel rooms, suites and luxurious beach lodges, alongside other properties across the estate.
We've actually stayed in one of the luxury Beach Lodges at Carbis Bay, so if you're considering booking one for your 2027 holiday, you can read our first-hand experience, including photographs and what we thought of the accommodation.
READ OUR CARBIS BAY BEACH LODGE REVIEW
Guests can also enjoy spa facilities, restaurants, beachside dining and opportunities for water sports.
Best for: Luxury holidays, special occasions and beachfront relaxation.
Our Top 3 Holiday Cottages for Family Gatherings in St Ives in 2027
Planning a family reunion, special birthday celebration or a holiday with several generations of the family?
A larger self-catering property can be a fantastic choice, allowing everyone to stay together while enjoying the freedom and flexibility of their own holiday accommodation.
We've selected three properties worth considering for your 2027 family gathering.
1. Cedar Lodge - Carbis Bay
Sleeps 8 | 4 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms
Cedar Lodge is a contemporary coastal property in Carbis Bay, offering spacious accommodation and beautiful sea views.
The open-plan kitchen, living and dining area makes it ideal for spending time together, while a separate snug provides additional space for families.
Outside, there's a garden, terrace and BBQ area.
Carbis Bay Beach is approximately 0.7 miles away, and St Ives can be reached via the coastal path.
Best for: Families wanting a spacious coastal retreat with outdoor space and sea views.
2. Lower Chy An Meor - St Ives
Sleeps 8 | 4 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms
For families wanting to stay close to the heart of St Ives, Lower Chy An Meor is a particularly appealing option.
This attractive apartment enjoys panoramic views across Porthmeor Beach and The Island.
With four bedrooms and four bathrooms, it's well suited to groups who appreciate having their own space.
Porthmeor Beach is approximately 150 metres away, while the town's shops, restaurants and attractions are within easy walking distance.
There's also a terrace for relaxing and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Best for: Families wanting a central St Ives location, spectacular views and easy access to the beaches.
View Lower Chy An Meor – St Ives
3. The Old Bakery Flat & Tremayne - St Ives
Sleeps 11 | 5 bedrooms | 5 bathrooms | Up to 2 dogs
For a larger family gathering, The Old Bakery Flat & Tremayne offers an interesting accommodation arrangement.
Rather than one conventional holiday home, the accommodation consists of two adjoining properties connected by a door.
This makes it particularly suitable for extended families or two families holidaying together who want to enjoy time as a group while retaining some independence.
The properties feature characterful interiors, separate living spaces and kitchens, and an enclosed courtyard.
Situated in St Ives, they're conveniently located for exploring the town, harbour and beaches.
Best for: Larger family reunions, multi-generational holidays and groups wanting separate living spaces.
Our Top 3 Holiday Parks Near St Ives for 2027
If you're planning a family holiday in St Ives, a nearby holiday park can be a fantastic alternative to a hotel or holiday cottage.
With self-catering accommodation, swimming pools, children's activities and entertainment, holiday parks are particularly appealing for families wanting a traditional Cornish seaside holiday.
Here are three worth considering.
Modern holiday lodges offer comfortable self-catering accommodation for family holidays in Cornwall.
1. St Ives Holiday Village - Best for Woodland Family Holidays
Located in Lelant, just outside St Ives, St Ives Holiday Village is set within approximately 100 acres of woodland.
The park offers a range of self-catering accommodation, including chalets and lodges.
Families can enjoy an indoor heated swimming pool, children's play areas, woodland walks and organised entertainment during selected periods.
There's also a clubhouse and places to eat.
Its woodland setting offers a different experience from staying directly beside the beach, while St Ives and the surrounding coastline are within easy reach.
Best for: Families who enjoy woodland surroundings, on-site entertainment and exploring Cornwall.
Check St Ives Holiday Village Prices & Availability for 2027
2. Riviere Sands Holiday Park - Best for Beach Lovers
Overlooking the beautiful golden sands of St Ives Bay, Riviere Sands Holiday Park enjoys a spectacular coastal position near Hayle.
The park offers direct beach access, making it particularly appealing for families who want to spend plenty of time beside the sea.
Facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, a seasonal outdoor pool, children's activities, entertainment and places to eat.
The location also makes it convenient for exploring Hayle, St Ives and the surrounding area.
Best for: Families wanting beach access, swimming pools and a lively holiday atmosphere.
Check Riviere Sands Prices & Availability for 2027
3. Tolroy Manor Holiday Park - Best for Exploring West Cornwall
Situated near Hayle in the grounds of a historic manor house, Tolroy Manor offers a family-friendly base for discovering the beautiful coastline and attractions of West Cornwall.
Accommodation includes self-catering bungalows and holiday houses suitable for different family sizes.
On-site facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, children's play areas, crazy golf, tennis courts and a games room.
Hayle's sandy beaches are a short drive away, while St Ives, Penzance and St Michael's Mount are popular destinations to explore during your stay.
Best for: Families looking for self-catering accommodation with leisure facilities and a convenient base for days out.
Check Tolroy Manor Prices & Availability for 2027
Booking tip: Accommodation and facilities can change, and popular summer dates may book up early. Check the latest prices, availability, facilities and booking conditions before reserving your 2027 holiday.
Planning Your St Ives Holiday in 2027
Getting to St Ives
By Car
St Ives is accessible from the A30, with the A3074 providing the main approach to the town.
Parking can be challenging during busy periods, particularly in the summer and school holidays.
Trenwith is one of the main long-stay car parks, located above the town centre.
A shuttle bus service operates at certain times, helping visitors travel between the car park and the town.
By Train - The Scenic St Erth to St Ives Railway
One of the most beautiful ways to arrive in St Ives is by train, and it's also a great way to avoid the town's busy roads and car parks.
The St Ives Bay Line runs from St Erth, passing through spectacular coastal scenery with views across Hayle Estuary, Carbis Bay and St Ives Bay.
The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes, making it a convenient and memorable way to reach the town.
Driving to St Ives? Park at St Erth and take the train!
St Erth railway station has a large car park, making it an excellent option for visitors arriving by car. Rather than driving into St Ives and trying to find a parking space, you can leave your vehicle at St Erth and enjoy the short, scenic train journey into town.
This is particularly worth considering during the summer months and school holidays, when parking in St Ives can be challenging.
The railway follows the beautiful coastline, offering wonderful views of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and the surrounding Cornish landscape.
St Ives railway station is also conveniently located close to Porthminster Beach, with the town centre and harbour within walking distance.
Watch Our St Erth to St Ives Train Journey in 4K
Want to experience the journey before your holiday?
We've filmed the scenic railway journey from St Erth to St Ives for our sister YouTube channel, UK Walking Tours.
Our 10-minute video captures the beautiful scenery along this famous Cornish railway, giving you a preview of what to expect when travelling to St Ives by train.
Our tip: If you're visiting St Ives for the day in 2027, parking at St Erth and catching the train is well worth considering. You'll avoid the stress of finding parking in town and get to enjoy one of Cornwall's most scenic railway journeys along the way.
Check the latest train timetable, ticket prices and St Erth station parking charges before travelling.
When Is the Best Time to Visit St Ives in 2027?
The best time to visit depends on the type of holiday you're planning.
Spring: Ideal for coastal walks, exploring the town and enjoying the scenery before the busiest holiday period.
Summer: Perfect for beach days, outdoor activities and the lively holiday atmosphere, although accommodation and parking can be more challenging.
Autumn: A lovely time for quieter visits, photography and coastal walking.
Winter: Great for dramatic Atlantic scenery, peaceful streets and enjoying a different side of St Ives.
If you have flexibility with your travel dates, we'd particularly recommend considering the months outside the peak school summer holidays.
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Frequently Asked Questions About St Ives
Is St Ives worth visiting in 2027?
Absolutely. St Ives combines beautiful beaches, a picturesque harbour, independent shops, art galleries and spectacular coastal scenery. There's plenty to enjoy whether you're visiting for a few hours or staying longer.
How many days do you need in St Ives?
You can see many of the main sights during a day trip, but we'd recommend allowing at least a full day to explore the harbour, beaches and town centre.
A longer stay gives you more time for galleries, boat trips and coastal walks.
Is St Ives expensive?
St Ives can be relatively expensive during peak holiday periods, particularly for accommodation and parking.
However, many of its best attractions, including the beaches, harbour and coastal walks, can be enjoyed without paying an admission fee.
Can you visit St Ives without a car?
Yes. The town is accessible by train from St Erth, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance once you arrive.
Bear in mind that some streets are steep and uneven.
Is St Ives suitable for families?
Yes. Its beaches, harbour, shops and range of activities make St Ives a popular family destination.
There are also several holiday parks and larger self-catering properties in the surrounding area.
Are dogs allowed on St Ives beaches?
Dogs are permitted on several beaches, but seasonal restrictions apply to some of the most popular locations.
Check the latest rules before visiting.
Where is the best place to stay in St Ives?
That depends on your holiday plans.
Couples may prefer a hotel overlooking the sea, while families might enjoy a holiday park with swimming pools and entertainment.
For larger family gatherings, a spacious self-catering cottage can provide the flexibility and shared living space needed for a memorable holiday.
Our Final Thoughts on Visiting St Ives in 2027
St Ives is one of those Cornish destinations that really does have something for everyone.
From its beautiful beaches and picturesque harbour to its winding streets, art galleries and spectacular coastal views, it's easy to understand why visitors return year after year.
Whether you're planning a family summer holiday, a romantic weekend away or a special get-together with friends and relatives, we hope our St Ives 2027 Visitor Guide helps you plan a wonderful trip.
Don't forget to watch our UK Walking Tours St Ives walking tour and scenic train journey videos to explore the area before you arrive.
And for more hotel reviews, travel inspiration and places to visit across Devon, Cornwall and beyond, follow Jamie & Kev Go Travelling.
Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a qualifying booking or purchase through one of our links, we may receive a commission or referral payment at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations and opinions remain our own.
