Porthminster Beach, Cornwall — Beach Guide & Water Quality

🛰 Satellite view

Water quality Excellent

Surface Sand

Dogs Seasonal (May–Sep 10am–6pm)

Lifeguard Seasonal RNLI

Toilets On site

Café On site

Blue Flag Awarded

About Porthminster Beach

A beautiful sheltered bay with golden sand and clear waters, just a short distance from Mount. Enjoy stunning coastal scenery and a relaxed atmosphere.

Getting there

Porthminster Beach is reached from the coast near St Ives. Head for the village and follow the signs or the coast path down to the shore — many Cornish coves involve a short walk from the nearest parking.

Nearest town / village: St Ives
Parking: Limited / none on site — check locally
Coordinates: 50.20866, -5.47635

Water quality

Designated Environment Agency bathing water — current classification: Excellent. Sampled weekly through the bathing season (mid-May to end of September).

View full EA Swimfo profile ↗

Facilities

🛟 Lifeguard cover (seasonal RNLI — typically May to Sep, 10am–6pm)
🚻 Public toilets on site
☕ Café or refreshments on site

Dogs policy

Seasonal dog restrictions apply — typically dogs are not permitted on the beach between 10am and 6pm from May to September. Outside these hours and out of season, dogs are welcome. Check local council signage for exact dates.