🐾 Dog-Friendly Porthgwidden Beach at a Glance
📍 Location: West of St Ives Harbour, below The Island
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Seasonal daytime restrictions,1st July to 31st August, between 10 am and 6 pm
🚶 Walk Length: 0.2–1 mile with Island loop
🌿 Terrain: Fine sand, gentle slope
👁️ Views: Sheltered bay, Island headland, calm sea outlook
🅿️ Parking: Town centre car parks nearby
🚻 Facilities: Toilets, cafe, shops close by
About
Porthgwidden Beach sits tucked between the busy harbour of St Ives and the headland of The Island. It’s not the largest of beaches, but that’s part of its charm. The bay is sheltered, so even on a breezy Cornish afternoon, the waves stay calm, which makes it easy if you’ve got a dog that doesn’t fancy huge rollers crashing over their paws.
It feels a little hidden, like a corner that only the regulars know about, even though it’s right in the town. I’ve been there a few times with my dog, both before and after the seasonal restrictions, and it strikes that handy balance of having cafes close by but still feeling like you’ve found your own spot.
Dog-Friendly Policies
Porthgwidden Beach has seasonal dog restrictions, prohibiting dogs from 1st July to 31st August, between 10 am and 6 pm. However, this is next to Bamaluz Beach, which is dog-friendly year-round.
Porthgwidden Beach cafe welcomes dogs outside the takeaway as well as on the covered terrace area.
Things To See & Do
The main draw at Porthgwidden is the beach itself. It’s sandy, clean, and because it’s in a small cove, it warms up nicely when the sun’s out. Now and then, you’ll catch seals in the bay.
If you fancy stretching your legs, The Island is right there, a headland with a path around it, easy walking and brilliant views over both Porthmeor and Porthgwidden. It’s not long, but it feels like a proper walk and is usually dotted with other dog walkers.
Access and Facilities
Driving into St Ives is a bit of a squeeze. The parking fills quickly, with the nearest option being The Island car park, just a short walk away from the beach. In summer, it’s best to park outside St Ives and catch the train in.
The train is a nice way to get here. From St Erth, the branch line runs along the coast and drops you into St Ives. From the station, it’s a ten-minute walk through town to the beach.
The facilities are decent, featuring public toilets located just behind the beach, bins (including dog waste bins), and numerous cafes nearby. Right behind the beach, there’s Porthgwidden Beach Cafe, which has outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. If you need water for your dog, staff at the cafe are usually happy to help fill a bowl.
It’s simple, but everything you need is right there.
