What’s on in the skies above St. Ives?

There’s something truly magical about the skies over St Ives. Guests often arrive expecting beautiful beaches and turquoise seas – but it’s the sky above that so often steals the show.
Over the last two years in particular, we’ve been treated to some of the most breathtaking and dramatic skies we can remember. From fiery sunrises that glow over the harbour to golden sunsets that melt into the Atlantic, each day seems to bring a new masterpiece. Early risers are often rewarded with soft pinks and oranges stretching across the horizon, while evening skies burst into rich reds, purples and shimmering gold as the sun dips behind the sea.
And then there are the rainbows. Thanks to our ever-changing coastal weather, vibrant rainbows regularly arc across the bay, sometimes even appearing as full double rainbows. There’s nothing quite like seeing one stretch from headland to headland, bright against a clearing sky after a passing shower.
Perhaps most magical of all have been the recent sightings of the Northern Lights. On rare but unforgettable nights, the skies above St Ives have shimmered with subtle greens and pinks, as the aurora has made unexpected appearances this far south. Watching the harbour and coastline under a sky lit with colour is an experience that feels truly special.
Part of the beauty comes from our position on the coast. With wide open sea views and very little obstruction, the sky feels vast and ever-changing. No two days are the same, and every season brings its own atmosphere – from crisp winter mornings to long, glowing summer evenings.
If you’re staying with us, we always recommend taking a moment to simply look up. Whether it’s with your morning coffee, during an evening stroll, or wrapped up under the stars, the skies over St Ives are a reminder of just how extraordinary nature can be