Now, we could pretend to be neutral here. We could say, “oh, everything in St Ives is lovely,” and give you a perfectly balanced list. But let’s be honest — we run boat trips, and we think going out to sea is the best thing you can do in St Ives. That said, we also get that you probably don’t want to spend your entire holiday on a boat (though… we wouldn’t judge you if you did).
So here’s our boat-first, land-later guide to 10 of the best things to do in St Ives — four sea adventures with us, and six solid suggestions for filling the gaps between your trips.
1. Take a High-Speed RIB Ride Around the Bay
We’ll kick off strong. If you only do one thing in St Ives — make it this. Our JAWS RIB Ride is fast, fun, and full of salt spray and seal sightings. It’s like a rollercoaster, but with dolphins (sometimes). Great for all ages… but your hair won’t survive it.
2. Grab a Pint and a Sunset on Porthmeor Beach
After that adrenaline rush, bring it down a notch. Head to Porthmeor Beach, grab a pint and some nibbles from the café, or swing over to West for a pizza and watch the sun sink behind the horizon. Flip-flops optional, contentment guaranteed.
3. Go Mackerel Fishing (with Rod and Line, the Proper Way)
Never fished before? No problem. Our mackerel fishing trips use rod and line, and we’ll show you exactly what to do. It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly addictive. We provide all the gear, talk you through the techniques, and you get to take home what you catch — unless the seals beat you to it.
Book your mackerel fishing trip
4. Stroll the Coast Path to Zennor
If you like your legs working as much as your sea legs, the walk to Zennor is stunning. Clifftop views, wildflowers, and a proper Cornish pub at the end. Just keep your eyes peeled for choughs… and the odd goat.
5. To the Lighthouse (We’ll Take You)
It’s one of the most iconic sights in the bay, and the inspiration behind Virginia Woolf’s novel of the same name. Our Godrevy Lighthouse boat trip takes you right past it — with seals basking, gannets diving, and a cracking view of St Ives behind you.
Check out our Godrevy & Seal Island tours
6. Catch Some Live Jazz at Rbar
You’ve seen the seals, now it’s time for the sax. Hidden in plain sight on Fore Street, Rbar serves up great cocktails and regular live jazz. The perfect below-deck antidote to the Cornish sunshine — especially if your boat legs need a break.
7. Cruise to Seal Island (Golden Hour Optional)
You can visit Seal Island during the day — and it’s one of our most popular trips. Occasionally, we run evening cruises when the tides and weather are just right, but they’re not currently bookable online. Just ask when you get here — it’s worth the wait if we’re running one.
8. Get In the Water — Surf or Kayak, Your Call
Rent a surfboard at Porthmeor and catch a few waves, or paddle out from Carbis Bay in a kayak for a more relaxed take on sea adventures. Either way, you’re in the water — which is exactly where you should be in St Ives.
9. Wander Through the Galleries
Art’s a big deal in St Ives. The Tate is world-famous, but don’t skip the smaller local galleries. From sea-glass jewellery and ceramics to works by Alfred Wallis and the world-renowned Leach Pottery, there’s inspiration around every corner — and you might just pick up a future Antiques Roadshow treasure.
10. Eat Some Fish That You (Maybe) Caught Earlier
Whether you caught your own mackerel or trust the chefs to do the hard work, St Ives is full of fantastic places to eat fresh, local seafood. Ask us for a recommendation — we’ve got opinions.
Ready to Get Out on the Water?
We still firmly believe there’s no better way to see St Ives than by sea — and we’d love to have you aboard. Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, we promise stunning views, a great crew, and memories you won’t forget.
In St Ives for a few days? Why not book all four of our trips?
