Carbis Bay Beaches

Carbis Bay is set along a coast full of simply stunning beaches. You’ll be spoilt for choice! All with turquoise waters and golden sands surrounded by sub-tropical plants! A paradise not only for people, but wildlife too – visit the RSPB bird sanctuary at Porthkidney sands a little further along the coast and discover the amazing variety of seabirds there.

Carbis Bay

Carbis Bay has a beautiful sandy beach and generally calmer sea conditions. It’s usually sheltered not only from the waves but the wind too. Perfect for families, it’s also a great spot for swimming. Close to the amenities of Carbis Bay village, it also has excellent facilities by the beach.

Parking: There is a large car park next to the beach. There is also a bus stop and train station.
Toilets: There are toilets by the beach.
Facilities: Beach shop, cafe and toilets. Also has a lost child centre and first aid post.
Safety: Patrolled by lifeguards in peak season.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome on this beach except between 15th May to 30th September (10am to 6pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place. Although we would always advise checking this before you arrive.

Porthminster Beach

St Ives town has many beaches, with the closest to Carbis Bay being Porthminster. At almost half a mile long, Porthminster is St Ives’ second largest beach but is more sheltered than Porthmeor. This makes this beach very popular with families. Situated on the edge of the town, only a 5 minute walk away from the centre, it still boasts fantastic facilities with restaurants and cafés. Also, it is located right next to the train station and a large car park.

Parking: There is a large car park next to the beach. There is also a bus stop and train station.
Toilets: There are toilets by the beach (seasonal).
Facilities: Right next to the beach or in the car park are cafés, restaurants and shops.
Safety: Patrolled by lifeguards in peak season.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome on this beach except between 1st July to 31st August (10am to 6pm) when a seasonal dog ban is in place. Although we would always advise checking this before you arrive.

Porthkidney Beach

Further east from Carbis Bay is Porthkidney Beach. This huge sweep of sand is set in the mouth of the Hayle estuary and stretches for about a mile along the coast. At low tide, it also reaches a mile out to sea as well.

Parking: Limited parking at Lelant Church.
Toilets: None.
Facilities: None.
Safety: Patrolled by lifeguards in peak season.
Dogs: Dog friendly all year, although we would always advise checking this before you arrive.