5 Best Things to Do in St Ives
What is St Ives Most Famous For?
It’s easy to see why beautiful St Ives is one of the most popular towns to visit in Cornwall. Boasting fabulous beaches, excellent galleries, a stunningly picturesque harbor, and the most charming shops and restaurants, it’s a cultural haven for vacationers.
It’s ideal for families needing activities to keep the kids delighted, or couples wanting everything they could possibly need for a romantic getaway right on their doorstep. Also, adventurous types looking to experience the South West’s famous surfing lifestyle won’t be able to resist falling in love with this town. Start planning your dream Cornish excursion now.
What are the best things to do in St Ives?
1. Porthmeor Beach
One of only 7 Blue Flag beaches in Cornwall
Good for: Families, Photo, Budget, Adventure
Porthmeor Beach is the place to go to soak up the warm Cornish sun. This beautiful sandy beach is just a stone’s throw away from the center of St Ives. In the summer months, it’s busy with tourists and families who want to play among the gently rolling waves. During winter, it’s the turn of the hardcore surfers. Although, if you fancy learning to hang 10 yourself, St Ives Surf School is located right on the beach.
Not just an idyllic-looking setting, Porthmeor’s Blue Flag status means it’s recognized for its cleanliness and safety, too. There are toilets near the beach, seasonal lifeguards and an excellent beachside cafe.
Location: Porthmeor, Saint Ives TR26 1JZ, UK
Porthmeor Beach
2. Tate St Ives
The town’s iconic art gallery
Good for: Photo
St Ives is a town known for its great art galleries, but none is more iconic than the superb Tate St Ives, perched above Porthmeor Beach. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the gallery is certainly impressive from the outside, but further exploration inside is an absolute must.
The recently expanded site features ever-changing exhibitions showcasing the work of modern British artists with links to St Ives and the surrounding areas. Free guided tours are available to make the most out of your visit and there’s a lovely cafe on the top floor with breathtaking views out over the bay. Combined tickets are available that also include the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.
Location: Porthmeor Beach, Saint Ives TR26 1TG, UK
Open: Daily from 10 am to 5.20 pm
Phone: +44 (0)1736 796226
Tate St Ives
3. Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
The former home of the internationally-renowned artist
Good for: History, Photo
The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden celebrates the life of the British artist and sculptor who gained international prominence during her career. Originally from Yorkshire and having studied in London, Hepworth moved to St Ives at the age of 36 during the outbreak of World War II.
The museum wonderfully preserves Hepworth’s Trewyn Studio home and garden, much how she left it before her death in an accidental fire at the site in 1975. It gives you a remarkable insight into her life and contains the largest collection of her outstanding modern art sculptures. Combined tickets with Tate St Ives are available for a reasonable price.
Location: Barnoon Hill, Saint Ives TR26 1AD, UK
Open: Daily from 10 am to 5.20 pm
Phone: +44 (0)1736 796226
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
4. Seal Island boat trip
Marine life in their natural habitat
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
A vacation to Cornwall wouldn’t be complete without a boat trip and, in St Ives, it’s all about Seal Island. Climb aboard and embark on a hour-long guided adventure in search of some fascinating local wildlife. Departing from the harbor, you’ll pass several picturesque landmarks before reaching Seal Island.
You get to observe the colony of seals enjoying life in their natural island habitat, as well as spot other exciting species along the way. It’s not uncommon to see dolphins in the area, as well as an array of sea birds and sometimes even basking sharks, porpoises, and whales.
Location: Zennor, Saint Ives TR26 3BW, UK
Seal Island boat trip
5. St Ives Harbour and shops
The biggest draw to the town
Good for: Shoppers, Photo
Many people visit St Ives to while away their time exploring the town’s charming harbor and surrounding shops. Take a walk along Smeaton’s Pier and get a great shot of the seaside town from out on the water. Rest your legs at the edge of the harbor while eating a piping hot pasty, or dip your toes in the water at the harbor beach.
Wander away from the waterfront and you’ll discover the likes of Fore Street, which is lined with wonderful independent shops. Visit galleries, browse clothing boutiques, tuck into delicious sweet treats, and pick up some great gifts and mementoes.
Location: Smeaton’s Pier, St Ives, UK
St Ives Harbour and shops
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