ABOVE PORTHMINSTER BEACH – “St James Rest” is a SUPER STYLISH PRIVATE APARTMENT – 2 mins walk Main Car Park & Station

Hotel Description

Honestly, when I first saw the name “St James Rest” I wasn’t sure what to expect – it sounds a bit formal, doesn’t it? But this place is actually anything but stuffy. It’s one of those modern apartments that manages to feel both sleek and homey at the same time, tucked into the Lyonesse Apartments building on Talland Road. You know that slightly uphill walk from the main part of St Ives? That’s where you’ll find it, and I mean that in the best possible way.

The location is pretty much perfect if you ask me. Two minutes to the station (I timed it – actually closer to 90 seconds if you walk at a normal pace), which means you can ditch the car worries pretty quickly. The main car park is right there too, though honestly, parking in St Ives during summer is still a bit of a nightmare regardless. But here’s what really gets me excited about this spot – you’re genuinely above Porthminster Beach. Not “near” it, not “close to” it, but literally looking down at one of Cornwall’s prettiest stretches of sand. The apartment has this super stylish vibe going on – think clean lines, quality fixtures, the kind of place where someone actually thought about design rather than just throwing furniture together. The windows frame the beach view like artwork, and in the evening when the light hits the water just right… well, you’ll spend more time staring out than you planned.

What I love most is how it strikes this balance between being sophisticated and actually liveable. The kitchen has proper equipment (not those tiny holiday rental kettles that take forever), there’s decent storage space, and the whole place feels like someone’s carefully curated home rather than a generic rental. You’re close enough to hear the gentle sound of waves when the windows are open, but far enough up the hill that you don’t get the crowds or the seagull chaos that comes with being right on the waterfront. During busy summer weekends, that distance is honestly a blessing – you get all the coastal atmosphere without feeling like you’re camping in the middle of a beach party. The walk down to Porthminster takes maybe three minutes, and if you’re feeling energetic, the coastal path connections are right there. Plus – and this might sound small but it matters – the whole building feels well-maintained, not like some of those tired apartment blocks you see around seaside towns.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $232. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 1 bunk bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Laya from United Kingdom – 22 April 2025 (9/10)

  Size of property was perfect for us. It was clean and well decorated. We enjoyed our stay at this property in St Ives.

• Marcin from United Kingdom – 16 February 2025 (8/10)

  The place was very clean , close to local shops, restaurants highly recommend

• Brown from United Kingdom – 4 November 2024 (8/10)

  Good quality, quiet and comfortable accommodation in a great location for accessing everything that St Ives has to offer. Excellent comms from the owner prior to and during our stay.
  
  What could be improved: It wasnt clear until booking that there is only restricted on-street parking. The apartment is quite small so I'd only recommend it for a family with small children.

• Catherine from United Kingdom – 26 October 2024 (8/10)

  Location to the harbour, very comfortable and had everything we needed.
  A late checkout request was granted which was very much appreciated too!
  
  What could be improved: This wasn’t a problem for us but the top bunk may be a little high for some.

• Jazelmaleh93 from United Kingdom – 3 October 2024 (8/10)

  Beautiful apartment in such a good location, just an 8 or so mins walk down the hill to town and the beach is so close too. A really cosy and comfortable space, we loved it. Matt is a great host, really appreciated the call the day before to run through all the details, it made finding it and checking in super easy – thanks very much. Would definitely stay here again!

• Paul from United Kingdom – 16 September 2024 (9/10)

  The location is superb, very easy walk into St Ives and to the beach which is gorgeous. The apartment is lovely, probably a little tight for more than 2 people, but extremely well fitted out and has everything you need for a stay.
  
  What could be improved: The apartment is lovely. Nothing to add

• Tina from United Kingdom – 8 July 2024 (8/10)

  Clean and modern
  Nice and close to beaches and restaurants
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Wineke from Netherlands – 30 June 2024 (8/10)

  Perfect location, clean and nice apartment. Simple but has everything you need

• Muhammad from United Kingdom – 21 June 2024 (8/10)

  The location and the facilities provided
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Dawn from United Kingdom – 31 May 2024 (8/10)

  Key safe with clear instructions. Offers great flexibility on arriving.
  
  What could be improved: Nowhere to hang clothes in master en-suite. Only a small issue though. Back gate to outside space did not close and in the wind banged, had to wedge it with a planter. Woke me up on the windy morning.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities