Summer in St Ives is fun for all the family – here are a few ideas to whet your appetite:

For the young at heart, go rock pooling or be one of the first to step on the wet sand before the tide comes in then relax on your favourite beach. Which is yours? Porthminster, the Harbour, Porthgwidden or Porthmeor (with its prestigious Blue Flag award) are all a short stroll from the old town known as Downalong and are famed for their glorious golden sands.

The summer of 2018 is proving to be record breaker – it has been the driest summer in the UK since 1961. The endless sunny days make the clear sea even more inviting than ever and as St Ives is a mecca for water sports, it’s the perfect year to visit.

Why not learn to surf on Porthmeor, paddle board or kayak in the bay? Swimming and snorkelling (best when the tide has just come in) can be just as fun or splash out and take a boat trip to see the seals, around Godrevy Lighthouse or a fishing excursion to try out your luck! You may spot a pod of dolphins showing off or even a shark or whale – they are about. Ever wondered what the Coastwatchdo? The friendly volunteers are happy to show the curious what they get up to on The Island’s lookout; safeguarding lives at sea and coastal users and charting vessels and sea life in the bay.

There’s plenty to do with the kids on a rainy day (just how long can the heat wave go on?) such as the Seagull Trail provided by St Ives BID – a colourful and fun puzzle around the town starting and finishing at the Tourist Information Centre and with goody bags for the right answers! You could also have a go at a chocolate workshop at CoCoKitchen, Tate Create or Clay Days at the Leach Pottery.

And don’t forget, it’s your last chance to see the impressive Patrick Heron retrospective at The Tate which will finish on 30th September. You could simply mosey through the cobbled streets and find some local art that catches your eye or handmade gifts and souvenirs in one of the many individual boutiques and markets.

St Ives has something for everyone and every season.  Just switch off, relax and soak up the sun while the kids have fun.  What more can you ask for?  A spur of the moment last minute special offer!