Porthminster is a crescent shaped stretch of white sand just below St Ives Station. It has a sub-tropical feel, sheltered from winds, making it a family favourite for safe swimming. It has views of the bay and the harbour and of the Godrevy Lighthouse, made famous through its appearance in Virginia Woolf’s novel to the Lighthouse.

The beach boasts a restaurant and cafe and fully licensed bar linked to the 19 hole pitch and putt. You can also hire one of the beach pods. It is now home to the September food and drink festival, returning this year.

Sand chairs are provided by Cornwall Mobility and are available from the cafe which help make the beach wheelchair accessible.

Lifeguard cover from the 15th of May until the 26th of September (2021).

In high season 15th May – 30th September, dogs are only permitted outside the hours of 10am and 6pm and enforcement patrols are in place.