Tucked away on the southwest coast of Cornwall lies a seaside gem that continues to win the title of one ofthe  UK’s most beloved holiday destinations. St Ives, with its whitewashed cottages, turquoise waters, and golden sand beaches, has once again been hailed as one of the best seaside towns in Britain.

At the heart of its charm is Porthmeor Beach, a stretch of coastline that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean. With soft golden sand and clear blue water, it's no wonder visitors are often stunned that such a place exists on home soil.

One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: “Crystal clear sea, golden sand. Truly breathtaking.”

Perfect for both sunbathing and surfing, the beach is backed by a lively promenade, the renowned Tate St Ives, and plenty of cafés where you can enjoy a pasty or cream tea with a sea view.

The beach has been recognised with both the Blue Flag and Seaside Award for 2024, for its exceptional water quality, safety, and environmental standards.

These prestigious accolades are administered by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education.

The Blue Flag is awarded to beaches that meet stringent criteria, including excellent water quality, safety services, environmental education, and management.

But Porthmeor is just the beginning. St Ives boasts several other stunning beaches including Porthminster, Harbour Beach, and Carbis Bay, each with its own loyal following.

One visitor said of Carbis Bay: “It’s absolutely stunning. It's calm, clean, and perfect for kids. We came back three times during our trip.”

The town itself is a postcard-perfect mix of narrow winding streets, independent shops, and art studios that speak to its creative roots. St Ives has long been a haven for artists, and today it remains a cultural hotspot with galleries, festivals, and live music throughout the year.

What sets St Ives apart is its ability to feel both vibrant and tranquil.

Despite its growing popularity, especially in the summer, it retains the charm of a traditional fishing village. As one TripAdvisor reviewer summed it up: “It’s everything you want from a British seaside town, but with the feel of a European resort.”