Cornwall’s St Ives Crowned Top Seaside Town with Views to Rival Malibu

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Britain’s most breathtaking coastal spot has been revealed, with St Ives in Cornwall topping the list of the U.K.’s 30 best seaside destinations. Renowned for its clear blue waters and golden sands, the town has been likened to Malibu, drawing more Britons to staycation on home soil.

As overseas holidays become increasingly expensive, U.K. residents are rediscovering the beauty of their own coastline. A recent study by Haven has ranked St Ives as the number one seaside town in Britain, and it’s not hard to see why. Nestled on Cornwall’s north coast, this resort town is home to immaculate beaches and is bursting with charm, culture, and striking scenery.

One of St Ives’ biggest attractions is its variety of beaches. Porthmeor Beach is particularly popular among surfers for its large Atlantic waves, while the calmer Porthminster Beach is ideal for families and swimmers looking to enjoy gentler waters. Meanwhile, Harbour Beach offers a more social atmosphere with sand stretching out right in front of pubs, cafés, and shops.

Breathtaking Views

St Ives’ visual appeal is undeniable. Beyond its beaches, the town’s quaint cobbled streets and traditional Cornish architecture give it a postcard-worthy feel. The town also offers stunning coastal walking paths and cliffside viewpoints that easily rival some of the most luxurious international destinations.

What truly sets St Ives apart, however, is its cultural edge. The town is home to the Tate St Ives, part of the wider Tate network, and showcases contemporary and modern art in a venue perched above the sea. Local galleries also highlight the town’s thriving creative community, with many artists drawn to the area for its natural light and serene backdrop.

Visitors to St Ives regularly sing its praises. Reviews on TripAdvisor highlight the area’s natural beauty, good weather, and relaxing vibe. One visitor described it as “simply spectacular”, adding that with the right weather, there’s little point in heading abroad. “Staycation heaven,” they concluded.

And they’re not alone. According to Haven’s study, which ranked the U.K.’s top 30 seaside towns, other popular picks include Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire, Padstow in Cornwall, and Portree on the Isle of Skye.

Destinations like Tenby in Pembrokeshire, Poole in Dorset, and Salcombe in Devon also made the list, each offering its own blend of natural beauty and traditional seaside charm. Even lesser-known gems like Stromness in Orkney and Plockton in Ross and Cromarty featured, reflecting a growing appreciation for more remote parts of the U.K.

With the economic landscape shifting and families seeking more value from their holidays, there’s a renewed focus on what’s available at home. St Ives, with its mix of coastal splendour and cultural offerings, has captured British holidaymakers’ imagination.

The spotlight on St Ives strengthens its appeal for property buyers and investors. As more people prioritise lifestyle and location, especially post-pandemic, areas like this are becoming increasingly desirable for holidays, long-term living, and second homes.

Whether you’re drawn by the surf, the scenery, or the slower pace of life, it’s clear that St Ives and many other spots on the top 30 seaside towns list are showing the world just how stunning the British coastline can be.