Guest testimonials
Alba Beach House gave us a memorable family break. The location is fantastic and we loved snuggling down to the sound of the waves. The restaurant recommendations were good, and all of the folk we encountered were pleasant. We can recommend the deck chairs for hire at the harbour as excellent value for money.
We had an incredible stay at Alba Beach House. We were a multi-generation family looking to fulfil a number of needs and this property exceeded them all on every level. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the property and Unique Homestays to anyone looking for a luxury UK break. We’ve been renting holidays in the UK for 40 years between us all and this by far the best in terms of location, which is always the most important thing for us. We had a wonderful stay, thank you!
We had a fantastic stay, thank you. The house was perfect and the whole process was very smooth. We enjoyed many of the recommendations in the house book and loved exploring St Ives.
The property was immaculate and exceptionally well decorated. The location was unbeatable! Right on the beach and central to St Ives and all the restaurants. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here, thank you.
Thank you for another great stay, we really enjoyed our time here, so much so, that we have booked again for next year! This will be our third stay at Alba Beach House and we are already looking forward to it!
We asked for a mid-stay linen change as we were having different guests and everything was accommodated without hassle. The property was excellent hence the second year running we have rented it and the service from Unique Homestays was slick and hassle-free.
We had an amazing stay in a truly fantastic property. The views were mesmerising and heading to the beach first thing every morning was so special. We will remember these gorgeous memories for years to come.
The location on the beach is as you would say, unique! Such a special feeling when you wake up in the morning and look out over the crashing waves whether in the dead of winter or peak summer season. Everything you need to enjoy some quality time out - good spaces and plenty of nooks to read in, well-equipped kitchen, comfy beds and good size bathrooms all with that view. Easy parking is a bonus! An absolutely beautiful house, we only wish we could have stayed longer!
Alba Beach House exceeded all expectations in terms of decor and location. We had a sublime and restful week, so much so that I have re-booked for next year which I never normally do! Sitting on the balcony and watching the waves is heavenly and the view from each window is second to none. We loved the shabby-chic vibe and the proximity to the beach is simply perfect. Thank you.
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Alba Beach House
St Ives, Cornwall, UK
Up to 8 guests
Two pets are welcome
Children and babies are welcomeA luxury pink cob cottage with a balcony overhanging the sands of Porthmeor Beach, Alba Beach House is the ultimate self-catering seaside retreat. Filled from top to bottom with that illustrious St Ives magic light, spend joyous days bathing in the swell before rinsing out salty hair, pouring a crisp glass of white and settling down to watch a chaos of colour explode across the sky before descending into night. Read more...
Allows babes in arms
Allows children
Two well behaved dogs welcome
Wi-Fi
Sea views
Real fire
TV
Pub within walking distance
Cot
Highchair
Introduction
Rustic and authentic, Alba Beach House is as true to its Cornish fisherman’s cottage roots today as it was in the mid 1800s. Awash with weathered nautical regalia and dotted with soft leather chairs which tempt long reclinations looking out to sea, this luxury self-catering home soothes and settles. Bleached summer mornings and wild storms with waves licking the walls of the cottage are the sans pareil of days spent here, but the peace of St Ives in the low orange glow of autumn or with a fresh spring breeze are an understated time to take up residence in this house by the sea.
Inside
Wanting to retain as much of the original cottage as possible, the owners of Alba Beach House have restored many of its founding features to their former glory; the floorboards have seen nearly 200 years of history while many of the window boards have been fashioned from the timber of long-lost ships. Treasures abound here, as one would expect from a house in what-was prime piracy territory, and from the original artwork to the tinker trays mounted to walls, this home feels just that; a well loved and welcoming place to rest and restore.
Outside
There’s no doubt that the property’s balcony, which hangs over the sugared shore of Porthmeor Beach, is one of the finest locations there is. To make it better? Freshly caught mussels picked up in town, marinated in garlic and cooked in cream, finished off with an ice bucket stacked with fizz while the rest of the world slips away. Outside there is plenty for all ages and interests; hair-raising coastal hikes, art galleries galore (Tate St Ives is just a short wander down the road) and of course, embracing the world class, cold water surfing that St Ives is so famous for.
This characterful cottage has four bedrooms, three doubles and one twin. Two of the bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and the other two share use of the family bathroom.
Bedroom one
First floor master bedroom
Adorned in pastels and coastal tones, this master bedroom is complete with king-size bed, a freestanding bath and shares the jack-and-jill shower room with bedroom two.
Bedroom two
First floor super king bedroom
Accessed from the main staircase in the living area, bedroom two flaunts a super king bed and a window seat with panoramic sea views. This bedroom also shares the Jack-and-Jill shower room with the master bedroom.
Bedroom three
First floor king size bedroom
Sporting a bohemian style, this king size bedroom is complete with sea views and shares the family bathroom with bedroom four.
Bedroom four
First floor twin bedroom
Styled with neutral tones and perfect for children and adults, this twin bedroom shares the family bathroom with bedroom three.
- PricingFrom £3,150 per week, £2,450 per short break for up to 8 guests
Alternative group sizes of up to 4 or up to 6 guests are available during selected periods at a reflective rate - PetsTwo pets are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - FamilyChildren and babies are welcome
- PracticalitiesAlba Beach House is accessed via a shared courtyard, there is parking for one car in a communal gated garage and a second at St Ives Station car park, which is a 10 minute walk away. The reclaimed cottage kitchen overlooks the courtyard and includes a Rangemaster induction hob and double oven, washing machine with separate tumble dryer, dishwasher, fridge-freezer, microwave, kettle and toaster
- Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options
Explore private dining - RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book
Arrivals & departures
Arrival time: 4pm
Departure time: 10am
Other information
Fresh produce
- Fresh bread
- Milk
- Cheese
- Biscuits
- Crisps
- Olives
- Cheese crackers
- Cake
- Bottle of wine
- Beer or cider
Please note - the owners strive to source the best produce for your welcome hamper, however, the contents may vary slightly depending on the season and amount of people comprising your party.
Those all-important little luxuries
- Flowers
- Luxury bed linen and towels
- Beach towels
- Firewood, coal and kindling to get you started
- Cosy blankets
- A selection of breakfast and herbal teas
- Ground coffee
- Instant coffee
- Olive oil
- Board games
- Hairdryer
- Condiments, dried herbs and spices
- Recipe books
- Informative house-book guide
- Highchair and travel cot
House book - your property and destination guide
Together with the owners, we've collated everything you'll need to make the most of your experience, from insider tips on local gems to practical property information, all in one digital house book, shared the moment you book.
St Ives
With tight clusters of slate roofs and brightly painted fisherman´s cottages lining narrow cobbled streets which lead to turquoise bays, St Ives is an unwaveringly spectacular sight, even on the greyest of days.
Getting there
- On the map This self-catering cottage is located above the golden sands of Porthmeor Beach, in the heart of the vibrant coastal town of St Ives.
- By car This coastal retreat is six miles from the main road into Cornwall the A30, a five and a half hour drive from London and three and a half hours from Bristol.
- By train The local train station in St Ives is a 15 minute walk from Alba Beach House and has daily trains from both London Paddington and London Waterloo.
- By air Newquay airport is around an hour’s drive away.
“The views from the house constantly change and are equally captivating on a stormy day with great waves as on a calm day in the summer season.”
In about 1840, Mr Edward Harry demolished a bakehouse to make way for the development of ten fishermen's cottages around a central courtyard bearing his name. Two cottages flanked the beach and make up what is known as Alba Beach House today, as well as one of the cottages to the side of the courtyard. The house was converted from three cottages to two with interconnecting doors sometime in the 1960s with the addition of the balcony at around the same time.
The cottage has changed hands on very few occasions. One famous resident of the Court was Alfred Wallace, well known for his nautical paintings. He is commemorated with a plaque at the front of the Court. Prior to us buying the house, it had remained in the ownership of one family for over 60 years. When you visit the house it is easy to see why, with unrivalled views of Porthmeor beach and a balcony overhanging the beach itself. My favourite time of day at the house is sunset, it is beautiful most evenings from the balcony and enjoying all the sea-facing windows.
It is our slice of heaven by the sea and we look forward to sharing it with you.
Paula and Iain
Discover the best destinations, experiences and restaurants to visit during your stay in St Ives. A larger selection of recommendations will be available in the property's digital house book.
To Eat
Porthmeor Beach Cafe, St Ives
Whether it’s a hearty Cornish breakfast to start the day or sunset drinks overlooking the vast Atlantic ocean, Porthmeor Beach Café is a must when visiting St Ives. Located a stone’s throw from Alba Beach House front door.
To See
The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno
Cuddle up under the stars at the Minack Theatre and be thoroughly captivated by spell-binding performances. Carved into the granite cliffs of Porthcurno, this world-famous theatre is sure to leave a powerful impression.
To Do
South West Coast Path
Pick up the South West Coast Path from the cottage´s front door, and explore the beautifully unique terrain of this corner of the country. Head in the direction of Zennor, over the soaring cliffs and reward yourself with a drink at the Tinner´s Arms on arrival.
To Do
The Tate, St Ives
One of four iconic galleries located throughout the UK, the Tate St Ives opened its doors to art enthusiasts in 1993. Today it showcases an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art by creatives with links to the area.
Whether you're curious about pet policies, the nearest walkable pubs, or wild swimming spots, we have the answers to common property-specific queries here. For everything else, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.
How far away is the additional parking?
Beyond the one allocated parking space opposite the property, there is also a private space for guests a 10 minute walk away at St Ives Station Car Park.
Is there direct access from the property to the beach?
There's no steps from the balcony onto the beach below, instead guests need to leave the house and walk around the side.
Is there any other outside space, apart from the balcony?
There is a shared internal courtyard at the rear of the house.
Is Alba Beach House dog-friendly?
Two well-behaved dogs are welcome at Alba Beach House, subject to a fee of £60 per week, per pet.
How far is St Ives town centre from Alba Beach House?
The walk from Alba Beach House to the town centre is no more than five minutes.
Which beach is Alba Beach House situated on?
Alba Beach House is situated on Porthmeor beach in St Ives.
Below are a selection of features in which Alba Beach House has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
By the sea
Country Living
December 2025Be beside the seaside
Discover Britain
July 2025Characterful cottage on the beach
House Beautiful
August 2023The best beach villas
The Times
February 2023Where to stay in St Ives, Cornwall
Country & Town House
July 2022Anchored in a bygone age
Country Living
July 2022A rustic Cornish cottage
Living Etc.
September 2021The SL Guide to St Ives
SheerLuxe
June 2021
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Luxury Self-Catering Cottages > UK > Cornwall > St Ives > Alba Beach House
