
Carbis Bay Beach
A breathtaking beach with Caribbean-like turquoise waters and golden sands, offering luxury stays and spa experiences.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Carbis Bay Beach
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking beach with Caribbean-like turquoise waters and golden sands, offering luxury stays and spa experiences.
"Carbis Bay Beach is absolutely stunning – the perfect spot to truly feel the essence of summer!"

🚗 Easy Train Access
Take the scenic train from St Erth to Carbis Bay for stunning coastal views.
🥾 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The coastal path can be hilly; wear sturdy footwear for walks.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turquoise Waters & Golden Sands
Carbis Bay Beach
Experience Caribbean-like waters and soft golden sand, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.

Scenic Coastal Path Walk
St Ives to Carbis Bay
A breathtaking walk offering panoramic sea views and a refreshing escape into nature.

Luxury Beach Lodges
Carbis Bay Estate
Indulge in a 5-star experience with direct beach access, private hot tubs, and stunning ocean vistas.

Carbis Bay Spa
Carbis Bay Hotel
Relax and rejuvenate with spa treatments and an infinity pool overlooking the magnificent bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Embrace the Coastal Path
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Train Access
Take the scenic train from St Erth to Carbis Bay for stunning coastal views.
🥾 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The coastal path can be hilly; wear sturdy footwear for walks.
☀️ Pack for All Weather
Cornish weather can be unpredictable, even in summer!
🏊♀️ Swim Safely
The waters are popular for swimming, but always be aware of conditions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Train Access
Take the scenic train from St Erth to Carbis Bay for stunning coastal views.
🥾 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The coastal path can be hilly; wear sturdy footwear for walks.
☀️ Pack for All Weather
Cornish weather can be unpredictable, even in summer!
🏊♀️ Swim Safely
The waters are popular for swimming, but always be aware of conditions.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for incredible sunrise and sunset shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Carbis Bay Beach is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning natural beauty, with visitors frequently comparing its turquoise waters and golden sands to the Caribbean. The luxurious accommodation options and spa facilities at Carbis Bay Estate are also highly lauded. Some visitors note the steep hills to access the beach and the potential for crowds during peak season.
"Fantastic view!
It's worth the taking the coast trail from St Ives. This trail walk also provides very beautiful views of the coast. It's easy to manage for even normal people.
Beach is very clean and surreal. There is cave kind of structure at one end of the beach, you can peep inside (not recommended to enter).
Train station is just around the corner. So, it's easy to catch the train back to St Erth from here, instead of catching it from St Ives."
vrukesh panse
"Beauty. Loved my week here. Blue is now my fsvourite colour. Especially torquoise."
lisa Sharp (Lil Purple)
"Great beach gets busy and is hilly but worth it. Has toilets and beach shop for refreshments and ice cream and beach toys..."
Sarah Morris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carbis Bay Beach is easily accessible by car, but parking can be challenging. The most scenic route is often by train from St Erth station, which offers beautiful coastal views along the way.
The train station is conveniently located near the beach.Yes, there is parking available, but it can get very busy, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transport like the train.
Absolutely! The coastal path walk from St Ives to Carbis Bay is highly recommended. It's a relatively short and gorgeous walk, taking about 25 minutes, offering stunning views of the coastline.
The train journey between St Ives and St Erth (stopping at Carbis Bay) is one of the prettiest in the UK, with breathtaking views over the sea.
It's a quick and enjoyable way to travel between the two locations.While the beach itself is accessible, reaching it involves steep hills and steps. The train station offers a more accessible option for getting close to the beach area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Carbis Bay Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access the sand and sea. However, charges may apply for parking.
Carbis Bay Beach is open to the public year-round, 24 hours a day. However, facilities like shops and cafes will have their own operating hours.
Yes, if you wish to use the facilities at the Carbis Bay Hotel & Spa, such as treatments or dining, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting the beach itself. However, always be mindful of local bylaws and respect the environment. Dogs are allowed on the beach during certain times of the year.
There are facilities at the beach, including a beach shop for refreshments, ice cream, and beach toys.
The Carbis Bay Estate also offers dining options.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and exploring the coastline. The clear waters are popular for watersports and a refreshing dip.
Yes, Carbis Bay Beach is a wonderful spot for families. The calm, shallow waters are great for children to paddle in, and there are facilities like a beach shop for snacks and toys.
There is a cave-like structure at one end of the beach that visitors can peek into, though entering is not recommended.
The water temperature at Carbis Bay can be cool, even in summer, typical of UK coastal waters. It's refreshing for a swim, but wetsuits might be preferred by some.
Dogs are permitted on Carbis Bay Beach, but there may be seasonal restrictions. It's always best to check local signage or guidelines for specific times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Carbis Bay Estate offers several dining options, including the Beach Club Restaurant with stunning views.
There are also cafes and eateries within walking distance or a short train ride away in St Ives.Many restaurants in the Carbis Bay and St Ives area offer vegan and vegetarian choices. The Harbour View House in St Ives is noted for its veggie burrito.
Yes, picnics are welcome at Carbis Bay Beach. You can bring your own food or purchase items from local shops and cafes.
You can find everything from casual beachside dining at the Beach Club to more formal meals at the Carbis Bay Hotel restaurants.
Yes, room service is available at the luxury beach lodges at Carbis Bay Estate, allowing you to enjoy meals with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography, with stunning colours painting the sky and sea.
Early mornings are also great for capturing the beach before it gets busy.The entire stretch of the beach with its turquoise waters and golden sand is incredibly photogenic. The coastal path also provides dramatic viewpoints.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and permissions. It's advisable to check with the local authorities or estate management before flying a drone.
Capturing the unique train journey along the coast, the infinity pool at the spa, and the dramatic coastal landscapes are all popular photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastal views. A polarizing filter can enhance the colours of the sea and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in family-friendly accommodation nearby or booking a beach lodge for a more comfortable and convenient base. While the coastal path offers beautiful views, stick to the flatter sections or the train for younger children. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great spot for a memorable family day out or a longer holiday.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a sunset stroll along the beach or a romantic dinner at one of the estate's restaurants, perhaps the Beach Club Restaurant for its stunning ambiance. The scenic train ride to St Ives adds a touch of old-world charm to your excursions. The combination of breathtaking natural beauty and luxurious amenities makes Carbis Bay an ideal destination for a special romantic break.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Consider staying in a comfortable B&B or a hotel room with a sea view to maximize your solo experience. The train access makes it easy to explore nearby areas like St Ives independently. The friendly atmosphere and natural beauty make Carbis Bay a welcoming destination for solo adventurers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Carbis Bay Experience: Luxury and Nature
Beyond the luxury, the natural allure of Carbis Bay Beach itself is undeniable. Its golden sands and turquoise waters have even drawn comparisons to the Caribbean, a testament to its exceptional beauty. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the serene coastal atmosphere. The nearby coastal path provides opportunities for scenic walks, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the dramatic Cornish landscape.
Getting to Carbis Bay is part of the charm. The scenic train line connecting St Ives to St Erth passes through Carbis Bay, offering passengers spectacular views of the coastline. This makes it an accessible and picturesque destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Cornwall without relying solely on cars.
Exploring Carbis Bay: Activities and Surroundings
The Southwest Coast Path is a major attraction, offering well-maintained trails for walkers of all abilities. The walk from St Ives to Carbis Bay is particularly popular, providing stunning panoramas of the rugged coastline and the azure sea. This walk is a highlight for many, offering a chance to connect with nature and capture some incredible photographs.
For those looking to venture further, the charming town of St Ives is just a short train ride away. St Ives is known for its vibrant arts scene, picturesque harbour, and numerous galleries and independent shops. Exploring the narrow, winding streets and enjoying the local culinary delights, such as fresh seafood and Cornish pasties, adds another layer to the Carbis Bay experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit