Sea views, coastal paths and a remarkable setting.
Hawkes Point occupies a distinctive position on the eastern side of Carbis Bay, looking out across the broad sweep of St Ives Bay toward the Hayle Estuary and the distant coastline around Godrevy. Surrounded by sea, sand and steep green slopes, it feels tucked away from the busier centre of St Ives while remaining closely connected to one of Cornwall’s best-known coastal areas.
The headland forms a natural transition between the sheltered curve of Carbis Bay Beach and the much wider sands of Porthkidney. That contrast is part of the appeal: one side offers the intimate character of a protected bay, while the other opens into an expansive landscape of beach, dunes and estuary views.
Discover the locationCarbis Bay is known for its golden sand, clear water and wooded slopes descending toward the sea. Hawkes Point adds a quieter, more elevated perspective, with coastal scenery unfolding in several directions.
The South West Coast Path passes through this landscape, placing the headland on a memorable walking route between Carbis Bay, Lelant and St Ives. It is a setting shaped as much by the journey along the coast as by the views from the point itself.
Between Carbis Bay and Porthkidney.
From Hawkes Point, visitors are within reach of two very different beaches. Carbis Bay has a sheltered, resort-like atmosphere, while Porthkidney Sands feels broader and more open, stretching toward the mouth of the Hayle Estuary. Together they give this small headland an unusually varied coastal character.
The surrounding area is ideal for slow exploration. Walking paths follow the contours of the cliffs, the branch railway links nearby communities around St Ives Bay, and changing tides continually alter the appearance of the beaches below.
A landscape with layers of history.
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For anyone staying in the area, Hawkes Point provides a useful starting point for discovering those different sides of west Cornwall: coastal walks in the morning, beaches and coves during the day, and St Ives—with its harbour, galleries and restaurants—only a short journey away.
Explore the historyA quieter corner of St Ives Bay.
What makes Hawkes Point memorable is the combination of seclusion and accessibility. It has the atmosphere of a small coastal retreat, yet it sits within a landscape rich in places to explore. Follow the coast toward St Ives, descend toward Carbis Bay Beach, continue east toward Porthkidney Sands, or simply spend time watching the light and weather move across the bay.
This guide introduces the location, coastline, walking opportunities and history of Hawkes Point, along with practical information for planning a visit to this striking part of Cornwall.
Explore the coast & walks