There are few things more magical than spotting dolphins in the wild, and if you’re visiting Cornwall, St Ives Bay is one of the very best places to see them. The sweeping stretch of coastline between Godrevy and Clodgy Point is a natural playground for marine life, with clear waters, strong tidal currents, and plenty of fish that attract pods of dolphins close to shore.
Dolphins in St Ives Bay
The bay’s sheltered waters and abundant food supply make it an ideal feeding ground for species like common and bottlenose dolphins. On calm days, you can often spot them leaping and playing just beyond the surf, sometimes even from the beaches or clifftop paths. Many locals say that early morning or late afternoon are the best times to watch, especially when the sea is glassy and still.
If you’re walking along the coastal path between St Ives and Zennor, keep your eyes peeled for fins breaking the surface. From this elevated vantage point, it’s not unusual to see pods working together to herd fish, or occasionally accompanied by grey seals and seabirds diving for the same catch.
Boat trips and best viewing spots
Several local operators run wildlife boat trips from St Ives harbour, taking you out across the bay and around the coastline towards Seal Island or Godrevy Lighthouse. These trips often bring you within sight of dolphins, porpoises, and even the occasional minke whale. It’s one of the most exciting and natural ways to experience Cornwall’s wild side.
If you’d rather stay on land, the best viewing points include the Island in St Ives, Hellesveor Cliff, and the beach at Gwithian on the far side of the bay. From these spots, you can enjoy sweeping views across St Ives Bay and out to sea, perfect for wildlife watching with a pair of binoculars.
A few tips for spotting dolphins
- Bring binoculars for a clearer view of any movement offshore.
- Calm days after a spell of settled weather are ideal.
- Keep watch near shoals of seabirds, they often indicate feeding activity below.
- Be patient and take your time; wildlife watching is all about quiet observation.
In summary
St Ives Bay is not just famous for its golden beaches and turquoise sea, it’s also one of Cornwall’s top spots for dolphin sightings. Whether you take a boat trip, walk the coast path, or simply sit by the harbour with a coffee, there’s always a chance to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Cornwall’s marine life never fails to surprise, and the waters around St Ives remain one of the county’s true treasures.
Video
Check out my video where you can see several dolphins gliding through the waters of St Ives Bay, a perfect example of how often these incredible animals visit the Cornish coast.