Ben Nicholson and Bernard Leach also came and stayed on to admire and paint the narrow, steep, cobbled streets lined with stone cottages - and the ever changing seascape. The attractive harbour, dappled with small boats, some for hire and for trips around Seal Island, is a focal point for water watchers, chit-chatters, philosophers and photographers. Colourfull and quaint, 'The Digey' entices explorers back into town with masses of geraniums and other summer flowers growing from window boxes and hanging baskets among the brightly painted cottages sparkling with daily polished brass. The nearest beach to the town center. There is a good expanse of clean sand, with level access down the slipway, which is considerably enlarged at low tide.
Fishing is good, mainly for mackerel.
A fine expanse of firm sand, about half a mile long, from the island to the point of Carrack Dhu. Plenty of room at low tide for games. The smallest of St. Ives beaches, very popular with children, good swimming. There is a putting green nearby. Carbis Bay Excellent sands just over a mile south-east of St.