How to plan a long but rewarding day trip to St Ives from our campsite near Boscastle, with tips on parking, beaches and art.
St Ives is one of Cornwall's most loved seaside towns, famous for its golden beaches, turquoise water, narrow streets and long history as a home for artists. It's a long drive from our campsite near Boscastle, but it makes a memorable day out if you plan ahead. Here's how to make the most of it.
Where is St Ives?
St Ives sits on the north coast of west Cornwall, on the edge of St Ives Bay. From Lower Pennycrocker Farm, it's roughly 60 miles by road, mostly on the A39 and A30. The drive usually takes around an hour and a half, and longer in summer traffic. It's a full day out, so leave early.
The beaches
St Ives has several beautiful beaches, each with its own character.
Porthmeor
Porthmeor faces the Atlantic, on the north side of the town. It's popular with surfers and families, and the Tate St Ives gallery overlooks the sand.
Porthminster
Porthminster is a sheltered, sandy beach to the south of the town, with calm water on many days and views across the bay.
Harbour beach
The harbour beach is right in the middle of town, with fishing boats, sand at low tide and plenty of cafés close by.
Porthgwidden
Porthgwidden is a small, sheltered cove on the edge of "the Island", a grassy headland with a small chapel on top.
Always check lifeguard cover and swim between the flags where available. See our beach safety and tides guide.
The harbour and old town
The heart of St Ives is its harbour, lined with boats, cafés and shops. Behind it, a maze of narrow cobbled streets, known as "Downalong", is full of galleries, craft shops and little cottages. It's a lovely place to wander.
Art in St Ives
St Ives has attracted artists for well over a century, drawn by the clear light and the sea.
Tate St Ives
Tate St Ives overlooks Porthmeor beach and shows modern and contemporary art, with a focus on artists connected to St Ives. Check opening times and tickets before you go.
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
The sculptor Barbara Hepworth lived and worked in St Ives. Her former studio and garden, now run by Tate, displays her sculptures among the plants. It's a peaceful place to visit.
Galleries
The town is full of small galleries and studios selling paintings, prints, pottery and crafts.
Parking
Parking in St Ives is limited, and the town centre streets are narrow and busy. Don't try to drive into the centre in summer. Use the car parks on the edge of town, or park and ride.
The St Ives Bay Line
The St Ives Bay Line is a short branch railway from St Erth to St Ives, with lovely views across the bay. A good option is to park near St Erth and take the train into town. Check timetables and parking before you travel.
Food and drink
St Ives has plenty of cafés, pubs, restaurants and bakeries, serving everything from pasties to seafood. Watch out for gulls, which are bold and will snatch food from your hand. See our Cornish food guide.
With kids
Children love the sheltered beaches, rock pools, harbour and ice cream. Porthminster and the harbour beach are good choices with young children. See our camping with kids guide.
With dogs
Many St Ives beaches have seasonal dog restrictions in summer. Check the latest rules before you go. Dogs are welcome on the coast path and in some cafés.
Walks
The coast path west of St Ives towards Zennor is one of the toughest and most beautiful stretches of the South West Coast Path. It's a serious walk, so plan carefully and check the return transport.
A day plan
- Leave the campsite by 8am.
- Park at St Erth and take the train into St Ives.
- Explore the harbour and old town in the morning.
- Have lunch, then spend the afternoon on Porthminster or Porthmeor beach.
- Visit Tate St Ives or the Barbara Hepworth Museum.
- Take the train back and drive home in the evening.
What to bring
- Suncream and a hat.
- Swimwear and a towel.
- Comfortable shoes for steep streets.
- A waterproof jacket, just in case.
- Snacks for the drive.
Is it worth the drive from Boscastle?
St Ives is a long trip, but well worth it once during a longer stay. If you'd prefer a shorter drive, try Port Isaac or Padstow instead.
Staying nearby
Our farm campsite near Boscastle is a quiet base for days out across Cornwall. Adults are £10 per night and children 5 and over are £5. See our North Cornwall day trips guide.
Frequently asked questions
How far is St Ives from Boscastle?
Roughly 60 miles from our campsite, usually around an hour and a half by car.
Where should I park in St Ives?
Use the car parks on the edge of town, or park at St Erth and take the train.
Are dogs allowed on St Ives beaches?
Many beaches have seasonal dog restrictions. Check before you go.
What is St Ives famous for?
Its beaches, harbour, narrow streets and art, including Tate St Ives.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
