Homes for sale in Carbis Bay

Carbis Bay’s History 

How Carbis Bay become known by it’s current name – Carbis Bay was first named in 1884, a new name for the bay formerly known as Barrepta Cove, from the previous title of Porthreptor. The name ‘Carbis’ derives from an inland farmstead. It was later recorded as Carbons in the 1300s which simply means a paved road or causeway, or possibly cart-bridge, the literal meaning of the Cornish word.

The Location

Carbis Bay is sheltered by tree-covered cliffs to either side of the bay, so it is well protected from the elements and the waters are calm. The beautiful sandy beach rarely has any surf, which is a perfect spot for families with children as the sea is perfect for swimming. The beach is the proud winner of the Blue Flag and Seaside Award. 2022 saw Carbis Bay retain its Blue Flag award for the 16th year running. Stretching 25 acres, visitors can enjoy beautifully clean waters and sands which meet the highest environmental standards

The bay is on the picturesque St Ives branch line and is around a mile long. A short walk on the east side of the beach at low tide takes you to Porth Kidney sands where you’ll find Hayle RSPB bird sanctuary, an important habitat for sea birds. Part of an collection of beaches which make up St Ives Bay, listed as one of the world’s best by the Most Beautiful Bays in the World Organisation, the beach at Carbis Bay is surrounded by sub-tropical plants and crystal waters giving you the feeling that you are somewhere more tropical.

The Hotel and Beach 

The Carbis Bay Hotel was built in 1894 by the Cornish architect, Silvanus Trevail, to cater for the boom in seaside holidays in the South West following the completion of the railway. Trevail is regarded as being responsible for helping Cornwall onto the tourist map at the end of the nineteenth century. As well as this hotel, he designed a number of other iconic buildings in all the major coastal resorts around the county of Devon. The Hotel has a beach shop which sell beach essentials, as well as a seasonal café directly on the beach, Lower Deck. *The café is open daily, and a BBQ is available daily throughout the summer months. Beach lovers can enjoy hot and cold snacks, drinks and ice creams.

Accessible by train via the St Ives branch line, the bay also has perfect conditions for kayaking, canoeing and water sports. You can hire equipment at Ocean Sports Centre located on the beach. Head here to hire SUPs, mega SUPs, wetsuits, kayaks, and deck chairs. On the main road up the hill, you will find a parade of shops including a barber shop, hairdresser, chemist and mini supermarket. The Beach has a seasonal dog ban, effective from July to September between 10am to 6pm. Owners and their dogs can enjoy the beach outside these dates and times, so you can still enjoy lovely evening strolls along the sands.