Luxury holiday cottages in St Ives
Set along Cornwall’s west coast, St Ives is one of the county’s most beautiful seaside towns.
With its clear turquoise waters, sweeping sandy beaches and thriving art scene, the town blends historic harbour charm with a laidback coastal way of life.
From the golden curve of Porthminster Beach to the characterful streets of the old town, life here is shaped by the rhythm of the tide - from early morning swims to evenings overlooking the harbour.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a relaxed family holiday or a celebratory stay with friends, St Ives remains one of Cornwall’s most sought-after destinations for a luxury coastal break.
Our luxury holiday homes in St Ives
Our collection of luxury holiday homes in St Ives places you at the heart of this exceptional setting, with each property carefully selected for its location, design and connection to the coast.
Choose from elegant sea-view apartments overlooking the bay, characterful cottages tucked within the winding streets, or spacious coastal houses designed for memorable gatherings.
A number of our homes are dog friendly too, making it easy to enjoy a luxury coastal escape with four-legged companions.
Across the collection, you’ll find homes with sweeping views across St Ives Bay, private terraces, hot tubs or swimming pools - perfect for slow mornings, sunset drinks and relaxed evenings outdoors.
Whether you’re looking for a sea-view apartment, a dog-friendly cottage or a large luxury home for a group stay, our St Ives collection offers something for every kind of coastal escape.
Browse our collection of luxury holiday cottages in St Ives below to find your perfect coastal stay.
First Light
A contemporary coastal retreat with panoramic sea views
- Sleeps 10
- 5 Bedrooms
- 4 Bathrooms
Albany View
Stay in first-class luxury overlooking St Ives bay
- Sleeps 8
- 4 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- 1 Dog
Why stay in St Ives?
St Ives offers a rare combination of beaches, culture and walkability, all within one coastal town.
With several beaches just moments apart, a vibrant harbour at its centre and a strong creative heritage, it’s a place where each day can feel entirely different - from relaxed mornings by the water to afternoons spent exploring galleries or walking the coast.
Everything is within easy reach, whether you’re moving between beach and town or setting out along the South West Coast Path towards Carbis Bay or Zennor.
This balance of variety, atmosphere and accessibility is what makes St Ives one of Cornwall’s most sought-after destinations for a luxury coastal stay.
Beaches in St Ives
St Ives is home to some of the most celebrated beaches in Cornwall, each offering a distinct character.
Porthminster Beach sits just below the town, with soft golden sand and calm waters ideal for swimming, along with a well-regarded beachfront café.
Porthmeor Beach, on the Atlantic-facing side, is a favourite for surfers and enjoys a more energetic atmosphere, backed by the iconic Tate St Ives.
Harbour Beach provides a more traditional setting, right in the heart of town, where fishing boats and gentle waters create a classic seaside scene.
A short walk further leads to Porthgwidden Beach, a smaller, sheltered cove that offers a quieter alternative during busier months.
Things to do in St Ives
Life in St Ives is shaped by the coastline, with days moving easily between beach, harbour and hillside.
Spend slow mornings beside the water, browse independent galleries and boutiques in the town’s winding streets, or follow the South West Coast Path towards Carbis Bay and Zennor for far-reaching views across the Atlantic.
St Ives’ artistic heritage is part of its identity. Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden offer a deeper connection to the town’s creative past, while smaller studios and galleries bring a contemporary energy to its cobbled lanes.
On the water, Porthmeor Beach is the place for surfing, while the calmer waters around Porthminster lend themselves to paddleboarding and swimming. Boat trips from the harbour offer the chance to spot seals, dolphins and seabirds, adding a sense of adventure to a relaxed coastal stay.
For gentler days, explore the harbourfront, visit local shops and makers, or settle into a long lunch overlooking the bay.
Whether you’re drawn to art, food, walking or the sea, St Ives offers something memorable in every season.
Places to eat and drink in St Ives
St Ives has firmly established itself as one of Cornwall’s most appealing foodie destinations, with a dining scene shaped by fresh seafood, local produce and unforgettable coastal views.
For refined beachfront dining, Porthminster Beach Cafe is a St Ives classic, set above the sand with views across the bay. Porthmeor Beach Cafe offers a more relaxed, surf-side atmosphere, ideal for long lunches, tapas and sunset drinks below Tate St Ives.
For harbour views with something a little different, Talay Thai brings authentic Thai food and cocktails to the waterfront.
In the town itself, Porthminster Kitchen, St Eia, Silco Bar & Kitchen and Ardor add to the mix, offering everything from elegant evening dining to cocktails, small plates and relaxed seafood-led lunches.
Explore nearby
St Ives is perfectly positioned to explore the wider West Cornwall coastline.
Carbis Bay offers a quieter, more refined beach setting just along the coast, while Hayle’s vast sands stretch across St Ives Bay.
For a more rugged landscape, Pendeen, Sennen and St Just lie further down west, with dramatic cliffs and coastal walks, while Mousehole and Newlyn offer a glimpse of traditional fishing village life.
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FAQs about St Ives
Yes, St Ives is easily accessible by rail. The nearest mainline station is St Erth, which connects to London Paddington and other major UK cities. From St Erth, a short and scenic branch line takes you directly into St Ives, running along the coastline with views across St Ives Bay.
Not necessarily. St Ives is a compact and walkable town, with beaches, restaurants and shops all within easy reach. For exploring further afield, there are good public transport links, including the coastal train line and local buses.
Many of our luxury holiday homes in St Ives include private parking, which can be a valuable feature in this popular coastal town. As parking availability varies by property, we recommend checking individual listings for full details.
A number of our St Ives holiday homes welcome dogs, making it easy to enjoy a coastal escape with your four-legged companion. You can filter dog-friendly properties when browsing our collection.
Many of our luxury homes in St Ives enjoy exceptional sea views, overlooking the harbour, beaches or St Ives Bay. You can explore sea-view properties within our collection to find the perfect setting for your stay.
Yes, St Ives is ideal for family holidays, with safe, sandy beaches, a wide range of activities and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. From beach days to boat trips and coastal walks, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
St Ives is a perfect setting for a romantic escape, offering beautiful sea views, intimate restaurants and a laid-back coastal atmosphere. From sunset walks along the beach to evenings overlooking the harbour, it’s an ideal destination for couples.
St Ives is a year-round destination, with each season offering something different. Summer brings warm weather and a vibrant atmosphere, while spring and early autumn offer quieter beaches and milder temperatures, ideal for walking and exploring. Winter provides a more peaceful coastal experience, with dramatic seascapes and a slower pace.
St Ives hosts a number of well-known events that add to its appeal across the seasons. Highlights include the St Ives Food & Drink Festival in May, set against the backdrop of Porthminster Beach, and the St Ives September Festival, a two-week programme of music, arts and performances held across the town. Throughout the year, you’ll also find exhibitions, local markets and seasonal events that reflect the town’s strong creative culture.
