Tathra Beach Cottage

Tathra Beach Cottage Overview

First Impressions

You know what struck me first about Tathra Beach Cottage? It’s tucked away on Barnoon Hill in what’s honestly one of the most coveted spots in St Ives — and I mean that quite literally, since this area scored a 9.4 for location. The cottage sits just above Tathra beach, which isn’t the main Porthmeor or Porthminster that everyone talks about, but that’s actually what makes it special. It feels like you’ve discovered something the crowds haven’t quite caught onto yet.

The Perfect St Ives Perch

Being on Barnoon Hill means you’re essentially perched above the action but not drowning in it. I could walk down to the harbor and galleries in about five minutes, but when I wanted to escape the summer crowds, I just headed back up the hill. The cottage overlooks Tathra beach — it’s this lovely little stretch that locals seem to prefer when Porthmeor gets too busy. From here, you get those classic St Ives views of turquoise water and golden sand, but without feeling like you’re living in a postcard that everyone else is trying to photograph.

The Cottage Experience

The accommodation itself has that authentic Cornish cottage feel — none of the corporate hotel polish, which honestly works perfectly in St Ives. The rooms capture that seaside cottage charm you’re probably hoping for, with enough character to feel special but practical enough for a proper stay. What I appreciated most was how the place manages to feel both cozy and spacious, probably because of those lovely views that seem to extend the rooms right out to the sea. The whole setup just works for couples — I can see why it gets such high marks for romantic getaways.

Beach Life and Beyond

Having Tathra beach practically on your doorstep changes the whole St Ives experience, I found. Instead of fighting for space on the main beaches, I could slip down for a morning swim or evening walk whenever I wanted. The beach has this more intimate feel — you’ll see local dog walkers and the occasional artist setting up an easel, but it never gets the tourist crush. When I did want the full St Ives experience, the Tate gallery and all those winding streets full of galleries and cafes were just a pleasant stroll away.

Why Guests Love It

The location really is everything here — that 9.4 score isn’t just marketing fluff. You’re in the heart of St Ives but with your own little slice of coast that feels more private and authentic. Couples seem to get this immediately, which explains why it rates so highly for romantic breaks. There’s something about having that perfect St Ives base where you can dive into the art scene and seaside buzz during the day, then retreat to your cottage above Tathra beach for sunset views and that peaceful end-of-the-day feeling. It’s St Ives without the compromise, really.

Tathra Beach Cottage Accommodations

Reviews of Tathra Beach Cottage

• Catherine from United Kingdom – 3 March 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely cottage in central location.

• Alexdinescu from Romania – 6 February 2025 (7/10)

  the location was great, just a minute away from all the restaurants and the pier.
  the house was clean
  
  What could be improved: for heating, the boiler was at the last floor; this made the last floor ( a bedroom ) extremely hot compared to the ground floor ( or even worse the lower ground floor which was really cold );
  there was an old house smell at the lower ground floor, which was persisting up to the first floor;
  
  while we were rightfully told that we cannot park in front of the house, a car got parked in front of the house entrance in two of the 3 days, blocking the entrance, especially when carrying any luggage. The car owner even confronted us saying we should not touch his car when he found his back wiper raised.

• Daniel from United Kingdom – 25 November 2024 (9/10)

  The location was fantastic right in the heart of all the action. The property itself was good it had all the facilities we required to make our stay comfortable. The furniture was all comfortable especially the beds. The showers were nice and hot and powerful. Barnoon car park is a short walk up the hill away so easy to park and walk down with bags etc.
  
  What could be improved: The property is split over 4 levels which wasn’t a problem for us but those with mobility issues may wish to consider this and the corridors are narrow. The stairs down the to the kitchen you have to mind your head going down.

• Paul from United Kingdom – 2 November 2024 (8/10)

  Great location, right in centre of St Ives. Pretty cottage, well furnished on all four floors. Able to park outside to unload was useful and not far from car park.
  
  What could be improved: Decor a little tired in places and slightly damp but nothing too serious. Lounge a bit dusty – not noticeably but I can always tell cause have a dust allergy!

• Amanda from United Kingdom – 14 September 2024 (9/10)

  Very comfortable and clean
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• David from United Kingdom – 6 April 2024 (8/10)

  Really lovely cottage
  
  What could be improved: With a pub next door deliveries and collection of recycling were early in the morning. Just before 6ish so it does disturb you as very noisy.

Surroundings

Facilities