St Ives vacation rentals

Why visit St Ives

• Stunning Beaches: St Ives boasts beautiful sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
• Artistic Vibe: The town is famous for its vibrant art scene, featuring numerous galleries and exhibitions.
• Picturesque Marina: Enjoy the scenic views and charming atmosphere at the lovely marina, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore the surrounding landscapes with various outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from cozy cottages to stylish apartments for a perfect stay by the sea.

Popular types of accommodation in St Ives

If you're wondering what types of vacation rentals you can find in St Ives, you're in the right place. Our most popular options include charming houses, cozy cottages, and stylish apartments. Whether you're looking for St Ives holiday cottages for a family getaway or apartment rentals in St Ives for a romantic retreat, we have a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Explore your options and find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

• Houses: The top choice for travelers, these spacious homes offer ideal settings for families or groups looking to relax in comfort.
• Apartments: A popular option for couples or solo travelers, apartments provide convenience and a home-like atmosphere in the heart of St Ives.
• Cottages: Charming and cozy, cottages are perfect for those seeking a quaint getaway with a touch of local character.
• Chalets: Ideal for a unique experience, chalets offer a blend of comfort and scenic views in picturesque surroundings.
• Cabins: A rustic choice for nature lovers, cabins provide a peaceful retreat close to the beautiful Cornish coastline.**

Top attractions in and around St Ives

St Ives is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. With stunning beaches, vibrant galleries, and a picturesque marina, there's plenty to explore. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, scenic views, or just a relaxing time by the sea, St Ives offers a variety of attractions to make your vacation memorable. Don't miss the chance to soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of this charming Cornish town.

• St Ives Harbour: This vibrant marina is the heart of St Ives, offering a mix of outdoor adventures and beach vibes. Enjoy scenic walks along the harbor, dine at waterfront cafes, or watch the fishing boats come in. It's a perfect spot to soak in the lively atmosphere.
• Carbis Bay Beach: A stunning, sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, Carbis Bay Beach is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. The picturesque views and gentle waves make it a tranquil escape for beach lovers.
• St. Michael's Mount: Located 6 miles from St Ives, this enchanting castle is steeped in romance and culture. Accessible by a causeway at low tide, visitors can explore its beautiful gardens and historic interiors, offering a unique glimpse into Cornwall's rich heritage.

Things to do recommended for couples

Looking for a romantic getaway in St Ives? Enjoy a delightful meal at Country Skittles, just 6 miles away, or savor the ambiance at Passage Cove, 17 miles away. Both spots offer a charming atmosphere perfect for couples seeking memorable experiences together.

Things to do recommended for families

Families visiting St Ives can enjoy fun-filled days at Grand Casino Amusements, One2Eleven, and Raze the Roof Indoor Play & Laser Tag, each offering exciting arcade and adventure experiences within a short drive. These venues are perfect for creating lasting memories together.

Things to do recommended for groups

Experience the scenic West Cornwall Golf Club for a round of golf, catch a captivating show at St. Ives Theatre for entertainment and culture, or visit Trevaskis Farm, a local market 6 miles away, for a taste of fresh produce and a vibrant atmosphere.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in St Ives

If you're traveling with a group, with family, bringing pets, or planning an extended stay, be sure to use the appropriate filters to match your priorities. Here are some helpful booking tips for Vrbo.

• Traveling to St Ives with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you'll require, as well as features like a complete kitchen or outdoor area for group get-togethers. Luckily, you can easily narrow down your options on Vrbo to include all of these amenities and more.
• Traveling to St Ives with young kids: Traveling with young kids can be tough. It's important to prioritize their comfort and safety, along with suitable amenities like a private swimming pool. Additionally, think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to St Ives: For many families, a vacation wouldn't feel complete without their furry companions. If you can relate, take a look at Vrbo listings that are pet-friendly. Most of these properties offer amenities like food and water bowls as well as cozy beds, ensuring that every member of the family feels at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting St Ives: If you're in search of vacation rentals with discounts for stays of a month or more, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rental options. Don’t forget to include features like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search criteria as well.

Where to stay in and around St Ives

St Ives, Cornwall, is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway, offering stunning beaches and breathtaking scenery. Explore the charming town center, filled with friendly locals and inviting outdoor seating options. Enjoy a blend of adventure and history in nearby areas, where you’ll find picturesque landscapes and budget-friendly attractions. Whether you're seeking outdoor activities or a tranquil retreat, St Ives promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

• Penzance: Penzance is a vibrant city located approximately 7 miles from St Ives, renowned for its rich culture and outdoor experiences. This coastal gem offers a delightful mix of scenic beaches and historic sites. Visitors can explore the local theater scene, enjoy outdoor activities, and even hit the golf course. The area boasts stunning beaches perfect for family outings, along with landmarks that reflect its historical charm. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or soaking in the artistic atmosphere, Penzance promises a memorable experience.
• Hayle: Just 3 miles from St Ives, Hayle is a charming city that captivates travelers with its beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery. Known for its excellent outdoor activities, Hayle is perfect for those looking to relax or indulge in sports like golf. The local beaches are ideal for family fun, and the town's neighborhoods offer a friendly, welcoming environment. With a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Hayle is a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and appreciate the Cornish coast.
• Carbis Bay: Nestled in the vicinity of St Ives, Carbis Bay is a lovely village known for its stunning beach and outdoor adventures. This destination offers breathtaking scenery and is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy golf at local courses or take in the serene views from the beach and marina. With its family-friendly atmosphere and tranquil surroundings, Carbis Bay is an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway that emphasizes the beauty of Cornwall's coastline.

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Planning a trip and want to save some money? Being flexible with your travel dates can make a big difference, as prices often fluctuate. Additionally, consider booking a longer stay to take advantage of great savings. To discover a Vrbo property that aligns with your budget, simply use our filters to narrow down options by price, location, and type of vacation rental. We're here to help you find the perfect spot for your next getaway.

Vrbo Trips: Planning made easy

Vrbo's Trip Board offers an easy-to-use platform for planning your travels. You can start new trips, continue from where you last left off, or look over and organize your existing plans. Your saved or booked properties will be neatly categorized into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To begin using Trip Boards, simply visit: https://www.vrbo.com/trips.

Live the low-key local life on the English coast

Formerly a fishing harbor, St. Ives has since become the center of the arts scene in this part of England. Enjoying the charming town center gives instant insight into why the area has served as an artistic inspiration for so many. Head to Portminster Beach for prime views of Godrevy Lighthouse, which once inspired writer Virginia Woolf, or eye up the colourful fishing boats that still dot the harbor. Best of all, simply enjoy life from your St. Ives vacation rental, slowing things down to match the laid-back speed of the locals.

All houses should come with tranquil gardens

St. Ives boasts a variety of galleries along its charming cobbled streets, but none are as notable as Tate St Ives, an outpost of London's renowned Tate galleries. The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden is equally worthy of a visit, both to see the works of 1 of the world's leading 20th-century artists, and to enjoy the tranquil gardens. Visit the St. Ives Museum in Downlong for a glimpse into the history and local life in St. Ives, and pick up some knowledge to impress your pals back at your St. Ives vacation rental.

Spend the day in Downlong, or see if the surf's up

A visit to "Downlong," the local nickname for Harbor Beach, is a must, if only to enjoy the fishing community that is still considered the heart of St. Ives. Take a boat ride out into the sea to Seal Island, where you'll find plenty of these funny, furry creatures sunning themselves on rocks. If the weather allows, a day at the beach should most certainly be in order—whether you're building sandcastles with the kids, splashing in the natural rock pools, or taking a surf lesson from 1 of the local schools.

Summers bring the crowds, while autumn brings the clouds

Cornwall is busiest in July and August, lining up with the U.K. school break. St. Ives vacation rental prices are likely to align with the tourism surge, but rates are generally lower in May, June, and September. The days are still long and bright, making these ideal months to visit. October through February is cold and rainy, but there's an allure to finding a cozy, storied pub in gloomy weather, so don't let this put you off. If you're fine with missing out on long days at the beach, spring is a perfectly pleasant time to visit, too.

Where rugged coastlines meet serene beach scenes

Nestled into the western shore of St. Ives Bay, the harbor of St. Ives is sheltered by St. Ives Island and Smeaton's Pier. St. Ives features 4 beaches, all with different characteristics. Surfers can catch the waves at Porthmeor, while Porthgwidden features a small, sandy cove. Harbor Beach, locally called Downlong, is still a working port, and Porthminster stretches for almost half a mile of sand. There are a few small islands in St. Ives Bay, where boats can take you to spot wildlife, from dolphins swimming past to seals who sun themsleves on the rocks.

How to get to and around St Ives

The nearest airport is in Newquay (NQY-Newquay Cornwall), located 26.4 mi (42.5 km) from the city center.

If you prefer to travel by train, St Ives Station, Carbis Bay Station and Lelant Station are the main stations in the city.