Mother Ivey's Bay
A picturesque sandy beach on Cornwall's rugged north coast, offering stunning sea views and access to the South West Coast Path.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Mother Ivey's Bay
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque sandy beach on Cornwall's rugged north coast, offering stunning sea views and access to the South West Coast Path.
"One of my all time favourite spots, the blues of the sea are unparalleled. 
🚗 Car is essential
Public transport is limited; a car is highly recommended for exploring beyond the bay. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore the coast path
Stunning views and access to other beaches await on the South West Coast Path. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mother Ivey's Bay Beach
North Cornwall Coast
A picturesque, pleasant sandy beach with unparalleled blue waters and rugged, inspiring scenery.
+1
South West Coast Path
Adjacent to the bay
Explore breathtaking coastal views and access other beautiful beaches like Hawker's Cove.
Local Lifeboat Crew Support
Mother Ivey's Bay
Learn about the vital work of local lifeboat crews and how you can contribute to their efforts.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Mother Ivey's Bay
Campsite Amenities & Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚗 Car is essential
Public transport is limited; a car is highly recommended for exploring beyond the bay. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore the coast path
Stunning views and access to other beaches await on the South West Coast Path.
🌊 Beach access ramp
The main access to the beach from the campsite is via a steep ramp. :arrow_down:
🛒 Well-stocked shop
The campsite shop offers a good selection, including gluten-free pasties. :shopping_cart:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is essential
Public transport is limited; a car is highly recommended for exploring beyond the bay. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore the coast path
Stunning views and access to other beaches await on the South West Coast Path.
🌊 Beach access ramp
The main access to the beach from the campsite is via a steep ramp. :arrow_down:
🛒 Well-stocked shop
The campsite shop offers a good selection, including gluten-free pasties. :shopping_cart:
☀️ Pack for all weather
Cornwall's weather can change quickly; layers are key for comfort. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mother Ivey's Bay is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, with visitors consistently praising the picturesque beach and access to the South West Coast Path. The campsite's amenities, including a well-stocked shop with gluten-free options, are also frequently highlighted. However, some guests have noted that the toilet facilities could be more modern and heated, and construction work has impacted some camping fields.
"Stunning location, beach and excellent access to the coast path. Sea view from most of the site. Been coming for years, construction going on has demolished the best fields to be honest but it’s still lovely, not many camping pitches left though. Access to the beach is a steep ramp. Spacious pitches. Shop and small bakery on site. Toilets/showers really clean and the campsite in general is really well kept, no litter, flowers perfectly cared for."
Amy Drake
"We came here for a week in our touring caravan and were not disappointed at all. The site was very clean and the shop was amazing, catering for all tastes and, for us, there were plenty of gluten free options, including the home made pasties. The staff were friendly and always helpful. The facilities were also excellent. It has it's own beach a short walk from the site. Thank you for a very pleasant week. We will definitely come back again"
Neil Marshall
"This site is clean and well kept, with a well stocked shop on site. It’s location with its own private beach is wonderful.
A point of note to the managers: the chemical toilet disposal has no hose attached, merely a tap on the wall. The result is it’s difficult to rinse the the toilet cassette but it’s also not possible to rinse the sluice. The result being toilet matter around the disposal point on arrival frequently.
This is genuinely the first chemical disposal point I’ve ever come across without a means to rinse. Not sure if the hose has been stolen or never fitted but neither the flush mechanism or the tap properly facilitate full cleanliness. An easy fix."
Richard Fisher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mother Ivey's Bay is best accessed by car. If you're coming from Padstow, follow signs for Constantine Bay and then Mother Ivey's Bay. Parking is available, though it can be limited during peak times. Public transport options are scarce in this area.
Yes, there is parking available, primarily associated with the Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park. However, during busy periods, parking can become very limited, so arriving early is advisable.
Yes, Mother Ivey's Bay is accessible via the South West Coast Path, offering stunning scenic walks. You can also reach it from nearby beaches like Constantine Bay.
Yes, Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park caters to campervans, and many visitors enjoy staying there to be close to the beach and coastal path.
The nearest major town is Padstow, known for its culinary scene and picturesque harbour. Other nearby villages include St Merryn.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the beach itself is generally free. However, if you are using the facilities at Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park, such as parking or camping, there will be associated fees.
Mother Ivey's Bay beach is accessible at all times. The campsite facilities, including the shop, will have specific operating hours, which are best checked directly with the holiday park.
Yes, Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park offers camping and touring pitches. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, as pitches can fill up quickly. +1
There are no specific entry restrictions for the beach itself. However, during very high tides or stormy weather, access might be temporarily affected.
Pricing for camping and caravan pitches varies depending on the season and pitch type. It's best to check the official Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The campsite offers a well-stocked shop, a small bakery, clean toilets and showers. Some reviews mention the toilet facilities can be basic and cold, but generally, the site is well-maintained. +2
Yes, Mother Ivey's Bay is a lovely sandy beach suitable for swimming, especially on calmer days. The clear blue waters are a major draw.
While not as renowned for surfing as some other Cornish beaches, Mother Ivey's Bay can offer waves suitable for skimboarding and beginner surfing, particularly on certain swell conditions.
Information regarding dog restrictions on the beach can vary by season. It's advisable to check with Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park or local signage for the most current rules.
Besides enjoying the beach, you can walk the South West Coast Path, explore nearby beaches, or simply relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery. Skimboarding is also popular.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park has a shop and a small bakery. For a wider range of dining options, the nearby town of Padstow offers numerous restaurants, including famous seafood establishments.
Yes, the campsite shop is well-stocked and offers a variety of items, including groceries and homemade pasties, with gluten-free options available.
Padstow is a culinary hub with options like Rick Stein's Seafood Restaurant. For more casual eats, explore local pubs and cafes in the surrounding villages.
Absolutely! Mother Ivey's Bay is a perfect spot for a picnic. Bring your own food and enjoy the beautiful beach setting.
Yes, the shop at Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park is known for catering to various dietary needs, including offering gluten-free pasties and other options.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire bay offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the rugged coastline and sandy beach to the vibrant blue sea. The South West Coast Path provides elevated viewpoints.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing the serene beauty before crowds arrive.
It's ideal for landscape, seascape, and coastal photography. The dramatic cliffs and expansive beach provide diverse subjects.
The Trevose Head Lighthouse is visible in the distance from parts of the coast path, offering a classic Cornish landmark for your photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sea and sky. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main access ramp to the beach is steep, it's manageable for most families. Exploring the South West Coast Path can be a fun adventure, with shorter, easier sections suitable for little legs. Just be mindful of the cliff edges and ensure constant supervision. The overall serene atmosphere of the bay makes it a relaxing spot for a family getaway.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and utilizing the campsite's shop for essentials can significantly reduce dining costs. Exploring the free-to-access coastal paths and beaches is a major draw, offering stunning scenery and activities without any charge. Having a car is essential, but once you're there, many of the best experiences are free.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
+1Beyond the main path, the bay itself provides a tranquil setting for nature observation. Birdwatching is popular, and the clear waters are inviting for those who enjoy seaside walks and appreciating the natural environment. The feeling of being immersed in such a wild and beautiful landscape is a key draw for visitors.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Coastal Path
+1Walking the path from Mother Ivey's Bay can lead you towards Trevose Head, where you can spot the iconic lighthouse, or south towards other popular spots like Constantine Bay and Harlyn Bay. The terrain can vary, with some sections being more challenging than others, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. The path is well-signposted, making it easy to navigate and discover hidden coves and viewpoints.
+1Many visitors find that walking the coast path is an integral part of their Mother Ivey's Bay experience, offering a sense of adventure and a deeper connection with the natural landscape. It's a fantastic way to burn off some energy and discover the diverse beauty of this part of Cornwall, often described as a 'world of its own'.
Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park & Amenities
However, some guests have noted that while the facilities are generally clean, the toilet blocks can be basic and lack heating, which might be a consideration for some. The access to the beach from the campsite involves a steep ramp, which is manageable but worth noting for those with mobility concerns. Despite these minor points, the park's location and its own private beach are consistently cited as major advantages.
It's important to note that the holiday park has undergone some construction, which has altered the landscape of the camping fields. While the core appeal of the bay remains, this development is something to be aware of. For those not staying at the park, amenities are limited, and having your own transport is crucial for exploring the wider area.
Skimboarding and Watersports
While not a primary surf destination, the bay can also offer opportunities for beginner surfing and other watersports when the conditions are right. The consistent, though not always large, waves make it a more accessible location for those new to the ocean. Visitors often appreciate the less crowded nature of the bay compared to some of Cornwall's more famous surf spots.
For those interested in watersports, Mother Ivey's Bay provides a beautiful and relatively safe environment to enjoy the sea. Whether you're a seasoned skimboarder or looking to try something new, the bay's natural features make it an appealing choice for aquatic fun.
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