It’s North West facing location make Porthmeor beach a popular surfing spot, so if you fancy experiencing the thrill of surfing, the highly regarded St Ives Surf School operates from the beach offering a host of water activities including surfing, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking and coasteering.
If surfing’s not your thing, and you fancy a more relaxing time by the sea, theres a lovely cafe/restaurant that overlooks the beach – the perfect place to watch the world go by or end your day as you watch the sun go down whilst sipping on something fizzy. Beach chalets are also available to hire.
The beauty of St Ives is that you’re always close to everything, and Porthmeor’s no exception. It’s only a stones throw away from the the town centre through the iconic narrow cobbled streets and alleyways and just around the corner from the smaller Porthgwidden beach. Porthmeor beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status in 2016 for it’s cleanliness and excellent water quality.
Dogs are banned on Porthmeor beach between 15th May – 30th September, 10am-6pm
View a live webcam of Porthmeor beach and other St Ives beaches
Car Parking
There are two car parks near Porthmeor beach – Island car park being the closest, just under 100m away and has spaces for approximately 120 cars. Barnoon long stay car park is situated behind the Tate gallery and is of similar size but involves a slightly longer walk down a very steep hill and steps. Please be warned these can both get extremely busy during the summer months.
Toilets
Public toilets are located next to the beach cafe.
Disabled Access
There is a slipway providing access to the sand from the East side of the beach, closest to Island car park.