Holiday lettings in St Ives

Table of Contents

• At a glance: What should you know about renting a holiday rental in St Ives?
• Holiday lettings in St Ives: Find your perfect retreat
• Exploring St Ives: our top recommendations
• Activities: What are the top things to do and see in St Ives?

• Property variety: There really is something for everyone! Choose from holiday homes, charming cottages, modern apartments, cosy cabins, and unique glamping experiences to suit every taste and budget.
• Prime coastal location: Immerse yourself in the magic of Cornwall. Enjoy stunning sea views and easy beach access in this picturesque Cornish seaside town renowned for its artistic heritage and natural beauty.
• Popular amenities: Many properties feature pet-friendly policies, private parking, and fully equipped kitchens. Private gardens and terraces are perfect for relaxing while you breathe in the fresh sea air.
• Artistic and cultural appeal: Soak up the artistic atmosphere of St Ives. Stay in the heart of Cornwall's most famous art colony with galleries, studios, and cultural attractions right on your doorstep.
• Blue Flag beaches on your doorstep: St Ives is home to three Blue Flag beaches — Porthmeor, Porthminster and Carbis Bay — offering safe, clean swimming for all ages just minutes from your holiday rental.

St Ives offers an exceptional range of holiday accommodations, from traditional stone cottages in the historic Downalong area to spacious holiday homes with panoramic harbour views. These properties are ideal for couples seeking a romantic coastal escape, families enjoying golden sandy beaches, and art lovers visiting the many local galleries. Whether you choose cosy cabins or search for dog-friendly cottages, each property provides an authentic base for exploring the southwest.

• Sea views and terraces
• Pet-friendly properties
• High-speed internet
• Private parking
• Fully equipped kitchens with modern appliances

These features ensure comfort after a long day exploring the stunning landscapes and artistic heritage of St Ives.

What are the best areas to stay in St Ives?

For the ultimate St Ives experience, the Downalong offers the perfect combination of historic charm and proximity to the harbour. The table below details regions for specific interests:

What do our guests say?

Our St Ives properties consistently achieve high ratings, with guests praising the exceptional coastal locations and the unique character of the historic buildings. Many reviews highlight the convenience of being walking distance to award-winning beaches and world-class seafood restaurants, while families especially appreciate the safety and cleanliness of the local sands.

Here are our top-rated holiday rentals and lettings in St Ives from the past year:

1. Bay Dream - 9.8+: A spotlessly clean and beautifully accurate one-bedroom retreat praised by guests for its amazing walks along the South West Coast Path, handy location near shops and the train station, and outstanding value for money.
2. Studio Sea Urchin - 9.7+: A stunning studio with breathtaking views over the bay toward Hayle and Godrevy Lighthouse, praised by guests for its exceptional location, well-stocked kitchen and cosy atmosphere perfect for a couple.
3. Artist Cottage - 9.0+: A charming, quirky cottage set in the heart of St Ives with easy access to all beaches, loved by guests for its beautiful surroundings and everything you need for a perfect stay.

Nestled on Cornwall's stunning coastline, St Ives is celebrated for its pristine beaches, vibrant art scene, and charming cobbled streets that captivate visitors year-round.

✈️What is the best way to get to St Ives?

Getting to St Ives is straightforward, with the scenic railway being the most popular choice for the final stretch. Here are the most common ways to get to this charming coastal town:

• By train: Take the main line train to St Erth station, then catch the scenic St Ives Bay Line for the final 20-minute journey. This branch line offers breathtaking coastal views and is considered one of Britain's most beautiful railway journeys, perfect for visitors who want a memorable arrival experience.
• By car: Drive to St Ives via the A30, then A3074 into town. Keep in mind that parking is extremely limited in summer, so many visitors use the Park & Ride at Lelant Saltings station (near St Erth) and take the scenic railway for the final stretch. This option works best for those bringing luggage or planning to explore the wider Cornwall area.

🥗Where to eat in St Ives?

According to Google Maps data and reviews, St. Eia is the best rated restaurant in St Ives. Below is a table showing the top 5 highly-rated restaurants hand-picked by our travel experts.

⭐Our guests' recommendation: Our guest traveller James recommends the Porthminster Beach Cafe in St Ives: perfectly located right on the beach with exceptional fresh seafood and breathtaking coastal views that make every meal memorable.

☀️When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit St Ives depends on your priorities, but May–June and September are ideal for enjoying mild weather, fewer crowds, and the town's artistic charm. For traditional British summer holidays and beach weather, July–August is perfect, while October–April offers peaceful winter coastal walks and lower prices, though with cooler, wetter conditions.

Spring & early summer (May–June)

• Best for: Couples and art lovers seeking perfect weather for gallery visits and coastal walks without summer crowds.
• Weather: Pleasant temperatures around 14–20°C, moderate rainfall, and increasing sunshine hours perfect for outdoor activities.
• Atmosphere: Quieter than peak season with reasonable prices, all attractions open, and a relaxed local vibe.

Peak summer (July–August)

• Best for: Families wanting guaranteed beach weather, vibrant summer atmosphere, and all tourist facilities fully operational.
• Weather: Warmest temperatures between 17–25°C, minimal rainfall, and maximum sunshine hours ideal for beach activities.
• Atmosphere: Busiest period with a lively street atmosphere and bustling beaches, but limited parking and higher accommodation costs.

Autumn & winter (September–April)

• Best for: Budget travellers, photographers, and those seeking dramatic coastal scenery and authentic local experiences away from crowds.
• Weather: Cool temperatures from 8–17°C, frequent Atlantic storms, but many crisp, clear days perfect for dramatic coastal photography.
• Atmosphere: Most peaceful and affordable time with cosy pub atmosphere, but some seasonal closures and unpredictable ferry services.

⭐Our Hosts' recommendation: Our St Ives local expert, Sarah of Bay Dream recommends coming to visit during the St Ives September Festival. This vibrant celebration features music, exhibitions, workshops, theatre and poetry throughout the town, offering an authentic taste of St Ives' renowned artistic heritage and creative community spirit. You can read more about local tips on Sarah's page.

1. Visit the Tate St Ives
2. Surf on Porthmeor Beach
3. Boat trip to Seal Island
4. Hike the South West Coast Path
5. Relax on Porthminster Beach

1. Visit the Tate St Ives

   For decades, St Ives has been known as a haven for artists, and you can admire their work at the Tate St Ives. This fascinating gallery focuses on 20th-century works, with locally-inspired pieces by artists like Barbara Hepworth and Alfred Wallis. The nearby Barbara Hepworth Museum has a stunning sculpture garden that art lovers mustn't miss.

2. Surf on Porthmeor Beach

   Hit the waves on Porthmeor Beach, home to the best surfing in the St Ives area, with consistent waves all year round. The soft, white sand is ideal for non-surfers who want to relax or build sandcastles while thrill-seekers ride the waves. If you're new to the sport, there's a surf shop with equipment for hire and lessons.

3. Boat trip to Seal Island

   The whole family will be enchanted by the sight of the Atlantic grey seals on Seal Island. Over one hundred of them live on this tiny, protected island, and on a boat trip you'll see them splashing in the water, catching fish to eat, or basking on the jagged rocks. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and seabirds, too.

4. Hike the South West Coast Path

   Dedicated hikers need about six weeks to complete the entire South West Coast Path, but many visitors spend a day or two doing short sections. The five-mile section from St Ives to Zennor is demanding but beautiful, with steep ascents and descents along rugged coastal terrain. The path to Godrevy Lighthouse, which runs for six miles, is less of a challenge, but still offers gorgeous views of rocky cliffs and sweeping sand dunes.

5. Relax on Porthminster Beach

   Popular with families, the white sands of Porthminster Beach have a subtropical vibe that will make you feel like you're a long way from England. The calm waters are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Don't feel like doing sports? Just hire a deck chair, grab a book, and soak up the atmosphere. There's also a pitch and putt facility beside the beach to keep active kids busy.