Porth Kidney Beach

Porth Kidney Sands is a beautiful mile of golden sand backed by rolling sand dunes at the mouth of the Hayle Estuary. At low tide the beach stretches further, stretching almost a mile into St Ives Bay, becoming a vast deserted paradise.

The beach is quiet and never feels overcrowded despite its proximity to the nearby fishing village of St Ives, one of Cornwall’s most visited towns. The neighbouring Carbis Bay sits the other side of the Carrack Gladden headland and is a short walk away along the South West Coast Path which runs behind the beach.

The beach is backed by picturesque sand dunes and the West Cornwall Golf Club, said to be the oldest golf club in Cornwall. There’s no parking close to the beach and no facilities. Access is on foot via the South West Coast Path from St Uny Church or Lelant Railway Station and does involve steps.

Lifeguard cover from the 8th of July until the 3rd of September (2023). Swimming should not be undertaken in and around the mouth of the Hayle Estuary.

The beach is dog friendly all year. However, dogs are required to be kept on a lead on the footpath leading from St Uny Church to Porth Kidney Sands. (St Ives Town Council)