The Cornish coastline is a rugged spectacle, with dramatic cliffs overlooking the deep blue sea. Each beach and cove has its own unique charm, but some are more famous than others, such as St Ives on the north-west coast.
This picture-perfect town attracts tourists from all corners of the globe during the summer months and was even named one of Europe's top beach destinations in 2011, outshining the best that Spain, France, and Italy could offer. However, beneath its seaside allure, I was taken aback to find that St Ives has cloudy waters and an overwhelming influx of tourists.
Those planning a Cornish getaway might find a nearby location more appealing.
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St Ives certainly has a lot to offer, with five sandy beaches and a gently sloping shoreline, it's perfect for families and sun-seekers.
There's no shortage of facilities along the beachfront, with lifeguard patrols from Easter until September, deck chairs for hire, and water sports equipment available, including kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. On sunny days, Porthmeor, the town's "premier" beach, buzzes with activity, reports .
Behind the beach, you'll find a delightful labyrinth of narrow streets where pastel-coloured cottages host a variety of restaurants, bars and cafes. Local dining spots serve up authentic Cornish fare, featuring classics like pasties, crab, and mussels.
If you've never been, like I hadn't until last summer, it's a must-visit. Arriving with high hopes, the bay looked breathtaking from afar (the bustling car park at the top of the town).
The honey-coloured stone buildings in the streets below were inviting, but once I set foot on the beach, reality hit.
Families and groups occupied every bit of sand on a weekday afternoon in July. Even at 4pm, Porthmeor beach was still crowded, including its far side.
With a Cornish pasty in hand, I finally found a spot to sit, only to be met by a horde of aggressive seagulls that had clearly spent the day gorging on litter left on the sand.
The real letdown came when I took a quick dip in the sea.
Having visited Kynance Cove and Pedn Vounder Beach just days before, I was underwhelmed by the slightly murky water that seemed polluted by heavy footfall and frequent boat activity.
I questioned why I was swimming here when Cornwall is home to so many pristine, secluded coves. Later that same evening, as I drove further up the coastline towards Hayle, I discovered one of them.
Gwithian Towans Beach is at the far end of St Ives Bay and boasts a wide, spacious sandy beach that is popular for surfing with seldom crowds, even in the height of summer.
Perhaps it feels quieter because you don't have a bustling town behind you, though there are still amenities on site.
It's merely a 20-minute drive through country lanes to reach this incredible beach, which is backed by massive dunes perfect for a long stroll.
When the tide recedes, Godrevy and Gwithian seamlessly blend to form a vast expanse of beach. At high tide, it transforms into a distinct cove, framed by cliffs and the National Trust-owned headland.
Godrevy Point, located at the far end of St Ives Bay, is a neighbouring treasure known for its iconic lighthouse and a small colony of lesser-spotted seals.
The water here is noticeably clearer, likely due to its exposure to Atlantic swells that disperse sediments. A swim here is invigorating and less daunting than in St Ives itself.
On the beach, you can find a private spot behind dramatic rocks - even on a busy afternoon. But the true marvel of this westerly location is the sunset views.
Parking is available at the top of the headland in a National Trust car park, from where it's a short walk down to Gwithian beach for a quick dip. This is arguably more accessible for visitors than parking at the top of St Ives and navigating the steep path down to the shoreline there.
Facilities are harder to come by, with a small cafe and surf shop at Gwithian and a National Trust cafe at Godrevy. Limited toilet and shower facilities are available in the Gwithian parking areas.
