Seal Island is part of a group of islands called The Carracks that is located about 3.5 miles west of St Ives. As the name suggests it is home to a colony of grey seals.
Boat trips leave for the colony on a daily basis and you can join a sightseeing tour from the harbour. Most excursions offer stunning views of Porthmeor Beach, The Island and the rest of the rugged Cornish coast around St Ives.
Once you get to the island you can get fairly close to the seals – but keep an eye out for dolphins, porpoises and even basking sharks on your boat trip over.
If you fancy keeping your feet firmly on dry land, you can see Seal Island from the South West coastal path. Head west from Portmeor Beach towards Zennor and you will see Seal Island about 200m off shore. It can be quite a challenging walk, but the scenery along the coastal path is definitely worth it.
Another couple of hours along the coast and you will come to Zennor, home of the famous carved mermaid chair in St Senara’s Church, as well as the Tinner’s Arms.
