Carbis Bay Beach

Carbis Bay Beach

Carbis Bay Beach
4.5
About
This picturesque bay, located in St Ives, offers outstanding views and a magnificent sandy beach offering many recreational activities such as swimming, boating, surfing, rock climbing and tennis.
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  • Fiona D
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A fabulous couple of days
    What a wonderful way to celebrate a special birthday. Carbis Bay itself is stunning and our upgraded room was literally on the beach with the most incredible views of the white sands, seals, surfers and wild swimmers. The staff are fabulous and very accommodating with a special mention to Philip on reception and Enrique in the restaurant. We made the most of the outdoor hot tub and swimming pool even in the rain. I would highly recommend the Carbis Bay hotel to anyone that appreciates beautiful scenery and a taste of luxury.
    Visited March 2024
    Travelled with friends
    Written 24 March 2024
  • Ellie
    Derbyshire, United Kingdom269 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Stunning
    Carbis Bay is a stunning beach. Gorgeous sand, waves, and usually not as busy as St.Ives. We have been lucky enough to have it on our doorstep whenever we stay in Carbis Bay, however the star lost is because of the ridiculous prices I see others having to pay for the car park. Tip- there is a cheaper option up the hill- although it is a killer to walk up!
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 27 March 2024
  • Lola Randles
    9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The most wonderful stay imaginable
    I stayed here with my partner, it felt nothing short of living in a fairytale. We stayed in Lodge 7, which I believe hosted Canada's President, Justin Trudeau, for the G7 summit in 2021. We were treated like loyalty from the moment we arrived, with a welcome hamper full to the brim of Cornish goodies, including a bottle of Cornish sparkling wine, freshly baked bread and lemon drizzle cake, and lots more. The concierge breakfast was to die for, again, all locally sourced and beautifully presented. The setting was unparalleled, with the lodge facing out across the paradisiacal Carbis Bay, breathtaking views from each bedroom. We could stroll right out of our living room onto the beach, which inspired a wonderful way to start the day; with a sea swim before jumping into the jacuzzi to warm up. Finally, I enjoyed a delightful back massage and facial, delivered by the wonderful Zoe. The best massage I've had in years, thank you Zoe! We'll can't wait to come back.
    Visited April 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 24 April 2024
  • Daniel H
    Derbyshire, United Kingdom77 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful beach, walks, and views
    We were staying in Carbis Bay, and just had to spend some time down on the beach. It is a glorious beach; golden sands and blue water, a perfect place to unwind and catch some rays. I feel like this beach is a bit of a hidden gem, as it never seems to be as busy as St Ives/Porthminster Beach which is a ~30 min walk or ~5 min train ride away. So come here if you want the quieter beach. The one downside of this beach (especially when compared to Porthminster) - be aware that the walk from the town (ie the train station) down to the beach is very steep! There is a small amount of parking at the bottom of the hill so you could drive down and try your luck. The walk is not friendly on bad backs, knees, and other joints.
    Visited April 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 13 May 2024
  • Emily
    3 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Hide your food from the seaguls
    Really beautiful beach but watch out for the seaguls!! No one warned us about the seaguls.. I ordered a pizza from the cafe and had a whole slice stole out of my hand by a seagul, so we then had to hide to eat the rest of the pizza. I later on whitnessed a seagul grab an ice cream off a toddler. People need to be warned of these seaguls they have no fear. Hide your food!
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 28 June 2024
  • Timothy F
    35 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Carbis Bay
    Walked from st Ives to this beach . Walk was really hilly. But I enjoyed it . Best to take your own food , As the beach shops and food places are really expensive. ÂŁ5 for an ice cream. Beach is fantastic. Much less crowded than st Ives. Parking a nightmare. . But a Beautiful place to spend the day . Especially for families.
    Visited July 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 12 July 2024
  • Jon B
    42 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Carbis bay
    Beautiful beach, fantastic view as you walk down. Looks like a beach in Greece. Lots of room when we went and people all super friendly and polite. Nice little ice cream shop that also sells pizza and snacks. Also a beautiful place above it to buy drinks and food whilst staring out to sea.
    Visited July 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 19 July 2024
  • Sharon A
    9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Gorgeous
    Such a lovely place with a few restaurants, cafes and a hotel (plus self catering accommodation around) Gorgeous family type of place and no rowdiness. It’s at the bottom of a hill so most people would have a climb each time they leave unless you’re staying actually in one of the few places that are right on the bay. Would definitely recommend though. I loved it! Definitely stay here and just visit St Ives rather than stay there if you want a quieter and sophisticated holiday.
    Visited July 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 28 July 2024
  • Anthony walmsley army ants
    Preston, United Kingdom40 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Carbis bay coastal walk.
    Absolutely stunning. My late father visited carbis bay in the 70s with my mother. He loved the costal walk. Today the 31st of July 2024. I set off with my german shepard in memory of my father to complete the walk and to scatter some of his ashes. It was so special for me to do that. St Ives is a special place to reconnect and get away from life's struggles. Golf course to carbis bay. Ant from Preston.
    Visited July 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 31 July 2024
  • Emily
    Sheffield, United Kingdom29 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Carbis Bay
    Lovely beach, great time get away from the busy St Ives beaches. Toilets and cafe available Deli is really slow! Paddleboards / watersports available and good value
    Visited August 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 24 August 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles1,359 reviews
Excellent
982
Very good
249
Average
67
Poor
27
Terrible
34

Xx
London, UK48 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2024 • Solo
St Ives is a stunning coastal town in Cornwall, famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant art scene. Enjoy a day lounging on golden sands or exploring local galleries, including the Tate St Ives. Accessible by train from Penzance, the scenic journey will set the tone for your adventure. Make the most of your travel budget with Trainpal; just enter the code for a 20% discount on your train fare!
Written 17 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

LWS
16 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2023 • Couples
Beautiful family beach with a welcome dog ban. Recommend taking the train to little Carbis Bay station overlooking the beach rather than a car, as parking a big expensive problem. Pack a picnic and let the kids play all day!
Written 11 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Ree Ree
United Kingdom104 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2020
This beach is beautiful. It has a hotel on it that you can park all day but it is ÂŁ20 so I recommend parking up the hill (it is a bit steep). The sea is perfect for young children with only mild waves. Lovely sandy beach that makes you feel like you are abroad. There is a restaurant on the beach that belongs to the hotel but during this time needs to be booked.
Written 8 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Annalise C
N Ferriby, Hull, United Kingdom1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2024 • Family
Just had a fabulous six day break at the Carbis Bay hotel. After over 40 brilliant years of staying here, we stayed in one of the Beach Houses this year and it was amazing. Just a step away from the beach we hardly left our lounge watching the beautiful bay change colours with the rain and sun, we just can’t get enough of it. The hotel, its services, dining options, team members was as brilliant as always. When raining, the staff immediately offered a buggy ride back to our beach house they were so helpful. Emma and her team have really got something special and their hard work, passion, respect and commitment certainly shows. Planning next year already. Annalise & Karen.
Written 26 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

David C
5 contributions
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2022 • Couples
It's been 20 years since I visited, what was a lovely beach. Its exclusive for the rich now. You should be warned its ÂŁ20 for a now tiny carpark, do not attempt unless you have a Maseratti and prebooked. You have to park in the main town, cannot park on road, double yellow everywhere, walk down the very long steep hill and back up again. no signs for the beach, had to ask people how to get to the beach as all new Rich apartments in the way. Sat on seat that no longer had a view of sea and it stank. Beach had some litter but it was tide coming in, people struggling to change on beach. It was a lovely sunny late afternoon, almost high tide and impressive view. Toilets dirty and smell. Tried to walk coast path back to St.Ives but some exclusive hotel called Ugly something was in the way. So many rich apartments now. Had to use google maps and ask people to get back. If you have any physical disability, do not attempt this beach. Should have been better than this. Disappointing.
Written 9 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Norrie S
Wishaw, UK18 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2021 • Solo
Great location for beach, bus and train. Spacious and clean. Previous reviewer said no clean linen/towels but after 1st week a guy brought a full change for me. Well equipped for cooking, and books, CD's and DVD's available. Yes, some furniture had wear marks, I appreciate not all folks treat holiday properties like their own. A feature is that the apt. has Sky TV, however, Sports, Catchup and Movies aren't part of the subscription, so when I stayed in due to the weather , I was watching old comedy programmes!
Plus points:- close to station, bus stops, beach and store and chemist. You get your own dedicated parking place within a gated area( the whole surrounding area has double yellow lines).
Go seal watching just off the beach in the afternoon!
Negative:- the hill down to the beach and up to shops might not be suitable for those not too fit!
I would stay again next year, however, checking the prices, it's more than double what I just paid.........so probably not....!
Written 23 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

TCJECOSSE
Uddingston, UK67 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2020
We spent a few days at various beaches in this area whilst on holiday and would have to say that this was one of the best.

As others have said the walk down to and back up from the beach is certainly not for the faint hearted and many would struggle if laden for a day at the beach or trying to take push a buggy.

The car park price had gone up to ÂŁ15 by the day we left and spaces were limited with many people using the train station car park half way down the hill instead which was a lot less.

Water sports on offer was well organised and instructors very friendly.

Food & drink at the Beach Bar was expensive and worth taking your own picnic with you.

Beach was spotless and plenty of bins to put rubbish in.
Written 20 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Bluebellplasnewydd
Cardiff, UK2,056 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2021
This is a pretty bay with a stream running through. Unfortunately it is dominated by the Carbis Bay Hotel and vast wooden clad structures. You can access via the costal path, by road down a very steep hill with limited parking and by train as the station is about 200 yds away. There are no cafes although you can have a drink and food at the hotel paying the appropriate price.
Written 25 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Shanaz H
6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2022 • Couples
You can park and use the loo!

When I visited I parked in the railway station car park. It was a a fiver for the whole day. (Spaces was not an issue)
Then instead of walking down the steep road we took the coastal steps down. The beach is pristine without a trace of litter and the cliffs are breathtaking. The water is a turquoise blue and it was nice a quite with a few dog walkers and some people mad enough to swim in the freezing October weather. There are some public toilets on the deck and a restaurant and a deli. The deli sells simple breakfast items before 12 and after does sandwich. All is takeaway boxes. A bit pricey but worth it for the views. Nothing stopping anyone from making a picnic and having it on the beach. There's unrestricted parking by the restaurant which I saw many people using...this would be the best route for disabled peers.
Written 28 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Louise
Cape Town, South Africa1 contribution
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2024 • Family
I am sure it would have been a lovely stay, but unfortunately the customer service is terrible and much to be desired. I notified the hotel of a change 3 weeks in advance and they ignored all requests. On the day, the offered to "see if they can re-sell the rooms on the day" and then continued to say that unfortunately it is the booking agent that does not allow for cancellations. The booking agent confirmed that they would allow the cancellation and contacted the hotel, with no response from the hotel. I phoned and emailed the hotel numerous times afterwards, but with no response. I do not think it is professional to have customer service "lying" to customers and when "caught out" to then decide to ignore any further communication.
Written 27 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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