St Ives is a vibrant seaside town in Cornwall, renowned for its stunning beaches, cobbled streets, and rich artistic heritage. It is a popular destination for us at MyPAWfectPlace, and this year marks our tenth anniversary.
What do we believe makes St. Ives special?
Central West Cornwall Location
St Ives is perfectly positioned to access both the north and south coast of Cornwall, making it easy to reach popular destinations like Land’s End, Penzance, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, and The Lizard.
The town is served by the St Ives branch railway, regular bus services, and good road connections, allowing easy day trips to nearby villages and attractions without hassle.
Dog-Friendly Beaches in St Ives
St Ives has three dog-friendly beaches within the town and one a short coastal walk away.
- Bamaluz Beach is a sandy spot that is dog-friendly all year round. It can get hectic, and so your dog needs to be social.
- Breakwater Beach, although located next to Bamaluz, requires perfect timing, as only at the low tide mark does an area of sand appear on the outer side of the harbour wall.
- Lambeth Walk Beach is a hidden gem in the centre of town, although this beach disappears at high tide, so be sure to check the tide times before you go. Tip, great spot for seaglass amongst the rocks.
- Porthkidney Sands is a large beach with dunes which offers excellent year-round access for dogs and is easily reached by the South West Coast Path from Carbis Bay. Perfect if you want the space to run without worrying about others.
St Ives has lots more popular beaches, such as Carbis Bay, Porthmeor, Harbour, Porthgwidden and Porthminster, but these have summer dog bans from July 1st to August 31st, between 10 am and 6 pm.
You should also not forget the massive Hayle Beach on the other side of the bay. Although it has some restrictions, plenty of the beach is also dog-friendly all year round.
Scenic Walks with Your Dog
- St Ives Town & The Island: Stroll along winding alleys and flower-filled streets, explore local shops, and loop around the “Island” headland for panoramic views.
- Coastal Walk to Zennor: Challenge yourself with a dramatic 6.5-mile path, ending at the welcoming (dog-friendly) Tinners Arms for a well-earned pint.
- South West Coast Path: Stretching for miles, this world-famous path starts right from your doorstep, offering spectacular sea views and plenty of sniffing opportunities.
Eat, Drink, and Relax: Dog-Friendly Cafes & Restaurants
With its abundance of restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops, St Ives provides everything needed for a lively base, while still retaining a laid-back coastal vibe.
St Ives boasts dozens of eateries that welcome four-legged guests. Some top picks:
| Name | Location | Dog Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Scoff Troff Cafe | Market Pl | Indoors, all meals, friendly fuss for dogs |
| The Sloop Inn | The Wharf | Dogs are welcome inside and outside |
| Balcony Bar & Kitchen | The Wharf | Dogs welcome inside and outside |
| Beer & Bird | Fore Street | Dogs welcome inside witg plenty of space |
| Porthmeor Beach Cafe | Porthmeor Beach | Terrace area, water bowls, alfresco dining |
| Hub | Wharf Road | Casual, sea-view burgers and drinks, dogs allowed |
| The Loft | Norway Lane | Covered upstairs terrace, perfect for dogs |
| Porthgwidden Beach Cafe | Porthgwidden Beach | Glass-covered terrace, local food, dogs welcome |
Staff are generally friendly toward dogs, with water bowls and treats available at many places. Be sure to mention your pup when booking a table during peak season.
Where to Stay: Dog-Friendly Accommodation
St Ives offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels and boutique cottages to holiday parks and budget-friendly spots, many of which have dog-friendly policies suited to different group sizes and styles.
Over the years, we have primarily stayed in cottages around the Carbis Bay area, as they offer better options with enclosed gardens and either a walk into town or a one-stop railway connection. However, this year we have opted for a flat in central St Ives, just a short walk back from Porthminster Beach.
We find the best way is to use our map-based tools, as you can see precisely how close each option is. The only problem is that this doesn’t provide pet-allowed filters, so you will need to click through to each property to determine if dogs are allowed. Still faster than looking through many individual cottage websites.
Attractions Beyond the Beach
- Walks and Outdoor Activities: From St Ives, you can access the South West Coast Path, spectacular beaches, and scenic hiking routes, making it a gateway for both relaxing and adventurous outdoor enthusiasts.
- Art and Culture: St Ives itself is a cultural hotspot (home to the Tate, Barbara Hepworth Museum, and more), meaning you get a vibrant town to enjoy during downtime. While dogs are not allowed inside Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum, the town itself is full of creative corners to explore.
- Nearby Day Trips: Land’s End and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are all great adventures for dog owners, with Cornwall offering a wealth of dog-friendly attractions.
Top Tips for Visiting St Ives with Your Dog
- Always adhere to the seasonal beach restrictions during July and August.
- Bring water, bowls, lead, and towels for sandy paws! Although many cafes provide water bowls and dog treats.
- The streets are bustling and you will meet lots of other dogs, so make sure your dog does not get stressed.
- Book accommodation early in peak months for the best choice.
In summary, St Ives offers excellent transport, a variety of amenities, and proximity to Cornwall’s must-see coastal and inland destinations, making it the perfect base for a comprehensive exploration of Cornwall.
St Ives offers everything you need for a carefree, dog-friendly getaway, with gorgeous views, friendly locals, and so much for you and your dog to enjoy together. Start planning your St Ives adventure today!