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
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
800 m
Frequently asked questions
Porthmeor Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +15.0°C, warms up to +18.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Porthmeor Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.0 m.
Porthmeor Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 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.
Porthmeor Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 800 metres.
Porthmeor Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Porthmeor Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Porthmeor Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (rarely). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Porthmeor Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Porthmeor 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.
Porthmeor Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: The Beach Restaurant. Cuisines available: Mediterranean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Porthmeor Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Headwear.
Porthmeor Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning when the waves are smaller and the beach is less crowded. Dogs are banned from 15 May to 15 September between 10:00 and 18:00.
Porthmeor Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Seasonal dog ban (15 May – 15 September, 10:00–18:00). Keep the area clean.
Porthmeor Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Porthmeor Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers and families with children. Suitable for swimming, surfing and SUP. Not suitable for those seeking calm water.
Porthmeor Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach faces north, making it ideal for surfing. Tate St Ives gallery is nearby. Beach chalets are available for hire.
Porthmeor Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Soft golden sand, Blue Flag and Seaside Award 2024, Lifeguards from Easter to autumn, Excellent waves for surfing, Showers and toilets, Beach chalets for hire, Views of Tate St Ives. Cons: Seasonal dog ban (15 May – 15 September, 10:00–18:00), Limited parking, Can be crowded, Waves can be strong.
Porthmeor Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Tate St Ives, St Ives Island, St Ives Harbour. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Porthmeor Beach: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
Porthmeor 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.