Easy hikes and walks around St. Ives
4.5
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5,977
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93
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Hiking around St. Ives offers a diverse landscape characterized by its dramatic coastline, sandy beaches, and rolling inland hills. The region is situated along the South West Coast Path, providing numerous opportunities for coastal walks with views of rugged headlands and expansive bays. Inland, areas like Steeple Woods Nature Reserve and various hills offer panoramic vistas and a different natural environment to explore.
Best easy hiking trails around St. Ives
- The most popular easy hiking route is South West Coast Path: St Ives Harbour Loop, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail that takes about 55 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic views of St. Ives Harbour and the surrounding coastline.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Carbis Bay from St Ives — Cornwall, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. This coastal trail provides views across St. Ives Bay towards Carbis Bay.
- Local hikers also love the Knills Monument & Steeple Woods loop from St Ives — Cornwall, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail leading through inland hills and woodland, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Hiking around St. Ives is defined by its coastal paths, sandy beaches, and inland hills, with a network of routes offering options for various ability levels.
- The routes in St. Ives are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore St. Ives's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.7
(11)
96
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3.35km
00:53
30m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the South West Coast Path: St Ives Harbour Loop, a delightful route that takes you through the heart of this iconic Cornish town. You'll experience classic coastal scenery, with boats gently swaying in the turquoise waters of St Ives Harbour and the charming architecture lining the shore. This easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) loop involves a gentle elevation gain of just 102 feet (31 metres), making it a perfect stroll that you can complete in about 52 minutes. As you walk, you'll pass by Smeaton's Pier, offering expansive views across the bay, and discover the golden sands of Bamaluz Beach and Porthgwidden Beach. The atmosphere is vibrant, blending the natural beauty of the coast with the lively buzz of the town.
This accessible route is an excellent choice if you are looking for a family-friendly outing or are new to hiking. St Ives is well-served by public transport, making it easy to reach the starting point without a car. If you plan to drive, parking is available within the town, but be aware that spaces can fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons. You won't need any special permits or have to pay any fees to enjoy this scenic coastal walk.
The South West Coast Path is renowned for its stunning vistas, and this particular loop showcases the unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage found in St Ives. The town itself has a rich history as a fishing port and an artists' colony, which is reflected in its distinctive architecture and vibrant arts scene. This trail offers a glimpse into that legacy, providing a memorable experience that combines outdoor activity with local charm. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in the Cornish coastal lifestyle.
4.7
(12)
60
hikers
5.32km
01:29
100m
100m
Embark on an easy coastal hike from St Ives to Carbis Bay, a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) journey that offers captivating views across St Ives Bay. You will experience gentle ascents and descents, gaining about 328 feet (100 metres) in elevation, with the entire route taking approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes. The path is well-maintained, guiding you past golden sandy beaches and offering beautiful glimpses of St Ives, including the notable Porthminster Beach.
This route is generally considered easy, making it suitable for most hikers, though it does include some steps, particularly when crossing the railway line. While the path is accessible, these steps mean it is not suitable for prams. Many choose to walk one way and return by train or bus, which adds to the experience and offers a different perspective of the stunning Cornish coastline.
As a section of the South West Coast Path, this trail is celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You might spot diverse wildlife like seabirds, grey seals, and even bottlenose dolphins, all while enjoying the famous "St Ives light" that has inspired artists for centuries. The route also passes historical features, including old fishermen's lookout huts and offers the unique chance to wave at passing trains.
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4.5
(2)
9
hikers
5.89km
01:43
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
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14
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2.90km
00:47
40m
30m
Hike the easy Rosewall Hill Circular Trail for 1.8 miles (2.9 km) to enjoy panoramic views of Cornwall's coasts and historical mining sites.
3.7
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6
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7.11km
01:48
20m
20m
Easy 4.4-mile hike along the Hayle River and Estuary, offering birdwatching, sand dunes, and coastal views in Cornwall.
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Tips from the Community
The white sand and clear waters of Carbis Bay are sheltered from the big Atlantic seas so it makes for a tranquil beach, popular with swimmers. It is often less busy than other beaches around St Ives. It also hosted the G7 summit back in 2021. If you're planning on running here, consider travelling by train as the cliffside railway tracks offer a unique and beautiful journey.
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A short jog from St Ives station will bring you to Porthminster Beach. The sea is a gorgeous blue and the sand shines with a golden hue. As the palm trees sway in the wind you'll be forgiven for forgetting you're even in the UK.
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The white sand and clear waters of Carbis Bay Beach are sheltered from the big Atlantic seas so it makes for a tranquil beach, popular with swimmers. It is often less busy than other beaches in Cornwall. It also hosted the G7 summit back in 2021.
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For me, St. Ives is one of the most idyllic places on Cornwall's coast. Here you will not only find shops, pubs and nice cafés, but also many small art galleries.
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Beautiful bay just beyond the harbor wall of St Ives.
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A grassy footpath will take you along the gorgeous River Hayle near St Erth in West Cornwall. Bring a picnic and enjoy a sit down on the riverbanks in this luscious green oasis.
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As you make your way up to Knill's Monument through the beautiful heathland of Treylon Downs, you'll be awarded some wonderful views across the Cornish coastline toward Carbis Bay and St Ives.
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Knill's Monument is a commemoration to former mayor John Knill of the late 18th century. The monument was built by the well-known architect John Wood, who was the designer of the Royal Crescent in Bath. The location of the monument provides some magnificent views across the picturesque Cornish coastline toward St Ives and Carbis Bay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there in St. Ives?
St. Ives offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 70 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the area features more than 100 hiking routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels.
Are there easy circular walks around St. Ives?
Yes, St. Ives has several easy circular walks. For instance, the South West Coast Path: St Ives Harbour Loop is a popular 2.1-mile (3.4 km) option that offers scenic views of the harbor. Another great choice is the Knills Monument & Steeple Woods loop from St Ives — Cornwall, a 3.7-mile (5.9 km) trail leading through inland hills and woodland.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes in St. Ives?
Easy hikes in St. Ives offer a diverse range of scenery. You can enjoy dramatic coastal vistas, sandy beaches, and rugged headlands along routes like the one to Carbis Bay. Inland, trails often lead through woodlands and hills, providing panoramic views of the coast and opportunities to explore nature reserves such as Steeple Woods.
Are the easy hiking trails in St. Ives suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many easy trails in St. Ives are perfect for families. The varied terrain, from sandy beaches to gentle paths, provides engaging experiences for all ages. Routes like the St Ives Harbour Loop are short and offer interesting sights, making them ideal for walks with children.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Yes, many easy hiking trails in St. Ives are dog-friendly, especially the coastal paths and beach walks. Porthkidney Sands, for example, is known for its beauty and popularity with dog walkers. Always check local signage for any seasonal restrictions on beaches or specific nature reserves.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along easy hiking routes?
Along easy hiking routes, you can discover several interesting landmarks and natural attractions. The St Ives Harbour itself is a highlight, and the St Ives Bay offers stunning views. Inland, you can visit Trencrom Hill or the Rosewall Hill Tor for panoramic vistas. The Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve is also accessible via an easy riverwalk.
When is the best time of year for easy hiking in St. Ives?
St. Ives is a great destination for easy hiking year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for coastal walks and exploring beaches. Autumn and winter provide a different charm, with dramatic seascapes and fewer crowds, though some coastal paths can be more exposed. Always be prepared for changeable Cornish weather.
Are there easy walks that offer views of the sea and beaches?
Definitely. Many easy walks in St. Ives provide stunning sea and beach views. The Carbis Bay from St Ives — Cornwall trail, for instance, offers continuous views across St. Ives Bay. You can also enjoy walks along Porthmeor, Porthminster, and Carbis Bay beaches themselves.
What do other hikers enjoy most about easy trails in St. Ives?
The easy trails in St. Ives are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal scenery, the variety of paths from sandy beaches to gentle hills, and the accessibility of routes that allow for leisurely exploration of this beautiful Cornish region.
Are there any easy river walks in the St. Ives area?
Yes, for a different easy hiking experience, you can explore the Hayle Riverwalk. This trail offers an easy hike along the River Hayle and its estuary, providing opportunities for birdwatching, views of sand dunes, and a coastal environment distinct from the rugged cliffs.
How accessible are the easy hiking trails by public transport in St. Ives?
St. Ives is well-connected, and many easy hiking trails are accessible directly from the town center or via local public transport. The town's train station is conveniently located for starting coastal walks, and local bus services can take you to various points along the coast or further inland, making it easy to reach trailheads without a car.
Are there easy walks that lead to viewpoints with panoramic views?
Yes, several easy walks offer fantastic panoramic views. The Rosewall Hill Circular Trail provides excellent vistas. Additionally, the walk to Knill's Monument on Worvas Hill offers superb views over St. Ives Bay and the surrounding coastline.
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