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St. Ives, Cornwall - Your Ultimate Coastal Guide

Located on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, St Ives is a charming resort town that captivates tourists from all over the world. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, spectacular beaches, and artistic heritage, St. Ives is a resort town that never fails to enchant those who visit.

St. Ives has a rich history as a centre for pilchard fishing and has evolved into a trendy, laid-back tourist destination. It's been a haven for artists since J.M.W Turner visited in 1811 and has continued to inspire artists like Barbara Hepworth. Today, St. Ives is teeming with practicing artists and boasts a wealth of galleries. The town's artistic reputation has been further elevated by Tate St. Ives, a branch of the prestigious London gallery.

Top Attractions in St. Ives

The allure of St. Ives extends beyond its artistic reputation. Visitors are captivated by its scenic beauty - the quaint sandy harbour, the shimmering sea, and the semi-tropical plants. The town is a far cry from the everyday hustle and bustle of England.

St. Ives is also home to some excellent beaches. Porthmeor is popular among surfers, while Porthminster beach is a favourite among families. Additional beaches include Porthgwidden and Carbis Bay, with more to be found further afield towards Perranporth to the north.

For those who love walking, the South West Coast Path offers stunning coastal views in both directions. Nearby Gwithian, located at the eastern end of St. Ives bay, is a must-visit. It's home to a quaint lighthouse on Godrevy Island just off the coast. Further along the coast is the small resort of Portreath with its excellent beach, and further still is St Agnes, a tiny village with a beautiful sandy beach.

Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in St. Ives

Additional Coastal Activities

Explore a vast selection of activities available within St. Ives and the surrounding coastal area. From surfing, sailing, bird watching to exciting coastal walks, you'll find a plethora of exciting things to do.

For a comprehensive listing of attractions, pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and shops in the locality, refer to the resort pages.

Exploring the Coastal Life

Stay tuned for feature articles about the coastline and news items about life in the coastal area. Contributions to this section are welcome. Visit our photo gallery to relive the beautiful moments captured along the coast.