St. Ives Bay — Attraction in England

Very very pretty, busy small sandy beach townside, and a large quieter but busy with surfers sandy beach 'Tate' side. Good selection of shops for all budgets. Worth a whole day in all weather and at all times of the year.

New year's Eve 2018 we spotted some dolphins playing100 meters offshore and seals about 50 meters from shore and spectacularly, right in the town beach near the moored small boats and pier/ harbour, no more that 20 meters away, a couple of playful and curious seals...right there, great stuff.

Parking is a nightmare, as is navigating and making progress around town in busy times, (basically all year round). I generally head for the rugby club via the 'day visitor' route (signposted from A30) and walk 15 mins to town now- I can't be arsed hunting for a spot if arriving after 0930 too much time wasted. It is all uphill on the way back though, small kids and elderly/less mobile will struggle.

Unless you're early of course, then head for near the centre and parking is fine. Love St Ives but my advise is...

St. Ives Bay is, without a doubt, one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places I've ever had the pleasure of visiting in the uk. From the moment you lay eyes on it, you're captivated by the sheer expanse of golden sand, stretching seemingly for miles, meeting the most incredible turquoise and azure waters. It truly feels like stepping into a postcard. The beach itself is a dream – soft, clean, and perfect for long, leisurely strolls, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the Cornish sun. The gentle lapping waves are inviting, and on a calm day, the water is crystal clear, making it a joy to...

Lovely old style seaside beach..with lots of eateries, bars etc..lossed its stature though..crowded & the public vehicles allowed to drive on the quayside is ridiculous & a danger to pedestrians..should be banned..same in the very narrow roads in the town centre..absolutely crazy...vehicles on pavements, streets blocked up..manic..the council need a lesson in pedestrian safety before someone gets killed..the whole town should be free of public vehicles at anytime ..deliveries only..& those before 10am..or definitely on a...