Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
200 m
Frequently asked questions
Harbour Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +14.6°C, warms up to +18.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Harbour Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Harbour Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Harbour Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 200 metres.
Harbour Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. It ends in August, September. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Harbour Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. There are no rip currents — swimming is safe. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Harbour Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, Wi-Fi. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Harbour Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Harbour Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Hub Box, The Beach Restaurant, Harbour Fish & Chips. Cuisines available: Local, European. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Harbour Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Headwear.
Harbour Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is at high tide when the water covers the sand. There are fewer people in the morning.
Harbour Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs are banned from 1 July to 31 August between 10:00 and 18:00. Swimming in the harbour is prohibited. Caution: moving boats.
Harbour Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Harbour Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children and those who want to combine beach relaxation with shopping and restaurants. Not suitable for those seeking solitude and quiet.
Harbour Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is located right in the town centre, making it a unique spot where you can swim and then go shopping or dining. At low tide you can walk to the neighbouring Porthminster Beach.
Harbour Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Central location, Soft golden sand, Sheltered by piers from wind, Many shops and cafes nearby, Suitable for families with children, Scenic harbour. Cons: Very crowded in high season, Parking difficulties, Water pollution after rain, Small beach, Noisy.
Harbour Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Tate St Ives, Smeaton-s Pier Lighthouse, St Ives Narrow Streets. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Harbour Beach: how do I get to the city of St Ives?
The beach is located near the city of St Ives. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for St Ives.