Yes it gets very busy there's no point avoiding the fact, the crowds make walking and driving slow. So, why still visit, well, it's the embodiment of a classic Cornish seaside town, white or granite houses with slate roofs run along cobbled streets, fish and chip, fudge and ice cream shops run along the harbour and backstreets as tourists try duck for cover from the seagulls.
There's several beaches to choose form meaning there's something for everyone, 2 of these beaches are manned by lifeguards; Porthminister (Lifeguards) remains calm throughout the day. If you're after some waves head to Porthmeor (Lifeguards) a prestigious blue flag beach, in between you'll find the small sheltered beach of Porthgwidden and during low tide you'll find families on the beach in the harbour front. Take a walk along the coastal path from the far end of Porthmeor Beach towards Zennor for some great views, there's several stopping point on route with historic and natural landmarks to learn about.
You know that thing people do at popular holiday resorts, where you reserve a sun lounger early in the morning, well that type of thing has started to happen on Porthmeor, no there aren't any sun loungers but the Cornish equivalent appears to be windbreakers. Early in the morning some families have started to set up their circle of windbreakers to claim a small section of the beach, yes it gets busy but that's certainly a new trend to me. Now, I wouldn't recommend waking up at the crack of dawn to set up a wind breaker, but do try to get a spot towards the back of the beach, so you don't get caught out by the incoming tide, high tide is really when the beach is a squeeze. If you're in the water in high tide watch out for the dip as you enter the water and don't nose dive the sand as you come out and a wave comes crashing in, there's also boulders that you can't see during high tide.
Take a walk around the picturesque harbour to the pier as the fishing boats come in on an evening and look in the water you'll often be able to spot seals after some food or playing, or one might even swim past you whilst you're in the sea.
Explore the streets that run behind the harbour, St Ives is predominantly filled with independent businesses, so there plenty of little shops to roam and cafes to grab a bite to eat, wander down some of the side streets to find many of St Ives' galleries, full of all sorts of art from paintings to sculptures. St Ives is full of artists retreats so its no wonder theres many amazing pieces, of varying prices so you might just find something you like, to take home and remember your trip.
If you're visiting for the day be warned there is a large car park at the top of the town, luckily theres a park and ride service unless you fancy the steep walk. However, this car park quickly fills up early morning you'll be lucky to get a space if you want a lie in. Avoid this and stay in a self catered cottage in the centre of St Ives, or up on the hill just prepare for the walk back up.
Take day trips to; Marazion Watergate Bay, Praa sands, Falmouth, Lizard Point and Porthleven.
Other Cornwall Guides to check out;