The Best Beaches for Families in West Cornwall: Safe, Sandy and Fun

Porthminster Beach, St Ives

All of the beaches in St Ives have something to offer families; however for facilities and access, Porthminster is the best for younger kids. The sheltered bay is a lovely place for paddling and swimming, and at low tide, you can even walk/paddle across to Harbour Beach.

With Porthminster’s subtropical planting, whitewashed cafes and always-azure waters, it is hard to believe that you are actually in the UK. Look out for events on this popular beach, from the annual food festival to fireworks displays.

Parking and transport: There is a choice of car parks within walking distance; however, the branch line railway station is just above the beach, and the bus station is nearby, too. If you are staying in Carbis Bay, it is only about a mile along the coast path straight into the beach.

Access: A slope down to the beach.

Lifeguards: Mid May until late September.

Family-friendly facilities: Loos, a beach shower, windbreak and deck chair hire, water sports hire, beach shop… Everything you could possibly need for a family day out!

Food: From the award-winning Porthminster Cafe to take-away coffee and chips.

Porthmeor Beach, St Ives

St Ives’ western most beach is a bit wilder than Porthminster, and Porthmeor is a top surfing spot. Conditions depending, Porthmeor Beach is also a great place for the kids to try out their new bodyboards. Little swimmers will find plenty of smaller pools to splash around in at low tide.

This is where the locals come in the evening (sssh!) to enjoy take-away pizza and barbecued mackerel as the sun goes down. Be inspired by the nearby Tate gallery and beautiful scenery to bring your paints or sketchbook to the beach.

Parking and transport: Nearby car parks include Porthmeor Short Stay, The Island and Barnoon (a steep walk back). There are also trains and buses into St Ives.

Access: Slope to beach. Beach chairs and buggies available for hire.

Lifeguards: From Easter until the end of October half term.

Family-friendly facilities: Everything you need for a family day at the beach, from loos to rock pools. Home to St Ives Surf School, plus windbreak and deck chair hire.

Food: Spoilt for choice, including cafes and take-aways on the beach itself.

Carbis Bay Beach, Carbis Bay

This privately owned beach is much loved for its clean, crystal waters and sheltered setting. There is plenty for families to do here, from playing in the soft sand to hiring a giant SUP for a paddle around the bay.

The beach is home to the elegant Carbis Bay Hotel, which runs a selection of seaside restaurants. We particularly love the Deli, and the pizzas at The Beach Club are an excellent way to refuel the family. Make a real day of it by taking the scenic branch line train to Carbis Bay from St Ives or St Erth.

Parking and transport: Parking at the hotel, station, or at the top of the hill (council and church car parks). The branch line station is part-way down the hill, just above the hotel.

Access: Slope down to the beach from the car park. The hill to the beach from the village is long and steep.

Lifeguards: During the school summer holidays.

Family-friendly facilities: Watersport lessons and hire from Ocean Sports. Windbreak and deck chair hire. Toilets.

Food: Choice of cafes and take-aways on and near the beach

Hayle Beaches

In Hayle, a sweep of beautiful beaches merge together, forming a four-mile stretch of golden sand. This sheer size is one of the reasons Hayle beaches are firm family favourites: your clan will always have plenty of space for a good runaround! The rockpools at the eastern end are another plus point, along with the colony of grey seals at Mutton Cove. 

Gwithian and Godrevy beaches are among the best surfing beaches in Cornwall, with a consistent swell that gives you good surfing conditions all year. If you prefer a more sheltered spot, try Hayle Towans, and there is a choice of surf schools for rookies.

Parking and transport: Various car parks, including Sandy Acres and two National Trust car parks. Railway station and buses in Hayle

Access: Limited, but the best option is the car park and ramp at The Bluff Inn (check before using, as the pub is changing hands in 2026).

Lifeguards: Mid May to late September.

Family-friendly facilities: Surf schools, toilets

Food: A great choice of cafes, bars and take-aways from Hayle to Godrevy.

Four-pawed family members?

If your party includes the family pooch, bear in mind that some Cornish beaches have seasonal dog restrictions. Take a look at our guide to the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall so you can all enjoy fun seaside days together. (And browse our lovely dog-friendly holiday cottages, too!)

Book Your Family Holiday in Cornwall

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