Season: winter
There are places that have a resonant appeal which is hard to define, rather like when you meet a charismatic person. The Bay of Naples, looking across from Sorrento, is an example and so is St Ives, but Porthminster beach here can exert a particular hold. There is a structure to the view from the beach that’s very reassuring, with clear reference points as you look out, yet the constantly changing light and elements can’t be captured and labelled, which is both refreshing and intoxicating.
On Porthminster beach with Steve, who explains the beach’s permanence.
Josephine and Helen explain what the beach means to them.
Looking down on Porthminster beach from the grass behind.
Season: spring
An uncharacteristically misty day greeted me on this occasion. This St Ives beach looked immaculate, in full swing for the season, with tidy bins on the beach, tables and seats neatly arranged and an industrious atmosphere at the Porthminster café along the beach, serving early breakfasts. This is one of Cornwall’s most popular town beaches, heavily frequented by visitors, many of whom, like Claire, below, keep impressions of this beach with them when they return home.
Porthminster beach through the decades.
A misty morning at Porthminster beach in St Ives.
Season: autumn
It was Bonfire Night, with spectacular fireworks. This beach is popular for weddings too, due to its stunning views of St Ives harbour and beyond, as well as the proximity of hotels to the beach. There is also a choice of beach cafes here. You can enjoy the shops, restaurants and pubs of St Ives too, all in close proximity. This is an excellent choice for well-heeled metropolitan visitors to the county.
Fireworks at Porthminster beach.
Season: winter
Porthminster beach is one of St Ives’ busiest, due to its large size with acres of golden sand and its position just below the railway station and main town car park. The beach was quiet on this occasion and there was plenty of space down by the water, with a view across the bay to St Ives harbour in one direction and Godrevy lighthouse in the other direction. This is a great beach to visit at any time of the year, if only for the amazing light hereabouts.
What the beach means to Izabella.
The tide rolls in at Porthminster beach.
The beach means time spent outdoors, surrounded by nature, leaves you relaxed and energised. The waves, the wildlife, the endless horizon and the very air itself stimulates all the senses.