Commonly known as the jewel in the crown of Cornwall, St Ives juts out into the Atlantic ocean, a picturesque maze of cobbled alleys and fisherman’s cottages. Each new corner turned, with the tang of salt in the air, you stumble across yet another postcard perfect beach. Our aim is to provide a Surf School and Watersports Centre that is as special as St Ives. A place where you feel instantly welcome, where you feel safe, where you learn and above all, where you have fun.
Our highly-trained team consists of a carefully selected crew of saltwater enthusiasts who live and breath the sea. Some are national surf champions, some grew up on boats, some are global wanderers and some could swim before they could walk. All have a vast amount of ocean experience to draw upon and have a passion for sharing it.
So whether you want to surf, paddleboard, kayak, coasteer or just sit back and enjoy the sea and sun; you can relax, knowing that you are in the best possible hands.
Meet the team
We’re a team of 14 strong experienced water men and women. Fully lifeguard trained with a background in surfing, paddleboarding and a general all round passion for the ocean.
Our local favourites
A selection of our favourite things to do, places to eat and accommodation in this wonderful part of the world.
Porthmeor west
Possibly the best kept secret in St Ives. The West side of Porthmeor Beach is very popular with locals enjoying authentic Italian pizzas, great coffee and ice cold beers from the rooftop bar in the evening. Keep an eye out for live music and special events happening over the summer.
Tregenna Castle
The castle is a Grade II Listed building sat amognst 72 acres of lush botanical gardens and natural woodland, and has stunning views over St Ives and up the North Cornwall coastline towards Godrevy Lighthouse. This Hotel resort also offers luxury self catering lodges, a golf course, 2 tennis courts, a restaurant and an outdoor heated pool.
Swim at porthgwidden
This is the smallest beach of soft golden sand in St Ives and located just beneath the Island facing East making it a wonderful sun trap and very well sheltered from the prevailing Westerly wind. Barely 100m across this beach is popular with families and boasts a lovely beach cafe too. Get down early on a summers day and slide in for a morning dip off the rocks.
Explore the coast path to Zennor
Follow one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in the UK from Porthmeor Beach in St Ives heading west towards Zennor. It is a solid 6 mile walk and not for the faint hearted but worth every step. Your efforts will be rewarded by a glorious pint of beer or Cream Tea from the legendary Tinners Arms in the village of Zennor.
Moomaid of zennor ice cream
luxury local Cornish ice cream produced on family run dairy farm perched on the cliffs between Zennor Hill and The Atlantic Ocean. Parlours can be found in Zennor Village, St Ives Harbour and Porthtowan.
Minnack Theatre
The Minack Theatre is a unique theatre carved into the cliffs high above the Atlantic ocean near the magnificent Porthcurno Beach. There is a full programme of shows, musicals and music all summer, as well as comedy and story-telling events. The venue looks onto the Ocean and isn’t uncommon to spot passing Dolphins, Whales and Baskin Sharks from your seats.
The secret beach — Porthkidney
Just 2 short miles from St Ives, Porthkidney is a beautiful expanse of golden sand sitting in between Hayle to the East and Carbis Bay to the West. Dogs are welcomed here all year round and RNLI lifeguard cover is provided July-August. You can access the beach via the SW coast path from Carbis Bay our park at St Uny Church and follow the meandering footpath through West Cornwall Golf Club and over the sand dunes.
Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture garden
The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Gardens are located in the centre of St Ives. The Gardens offer a genuine insight into the work and inspiration of one of Britain’s most important artists. Stunning sculptures in bronze, stone and wood are featured in the museum and garden, along with painting and drawings from various stages of her life.
Cohort hostel
A recently renovated and family run hostel situated in a Grade 2 listed building in the center of St Ives. This super chilled yet luxurious hostel is family run and extremely eco friendly. Theres even a hot outside shower for after your surf! Prices start from as little as £17 per night.
St Ives ebikes
Rent an eBike and tackle one of the most spectacular rides in the country, the Coast Road from St Ives to Zennor and Cape Cornwall. If you are feeling brave, you can ride all 45 miles of the Land's End Loop. St Ives eBikes has a fleet of high end eBikes available to rent from their shop at the top of the hill behind Porthmeor and also offers guided tours. website here
“They are also community & environment champions, and have been amazing supporters of Surfers Against Sewage for years and leaders in protecting beaches for all to enjoy. You’re guaranteed to learn with the team and get a memorable oceanic experience.”
Hugo Tagholm, Surfers Against Sewage CEO
