Nestled along the rugged coastline of Scotland’s western shores lie some of the most beautiful beaches in the United Kingdom. From the finest stretches of golden sand to hidden coves of shingle, the West Coast of Scotland offers a diverse array of coastal wonders that captivate visitors and photographers alike. These beaches, often framed by dramatic cliffs and rolling hills where sheep graze peacefully, provide a stark contrast to the bustling city centres found elsewhere in the country.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best beaches the West Coast of Scotland has to offer, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From family-friendly shores to photographer’s paradises, prepare to discover the coastal wonders that make this region a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in West Coast of Scotland 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Mingary Castle
- ✨ 5-Star: The Smithy House & Cottages
- 🏨 4-Star: Scourie Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Ardmore House B&B
- 💸 Cheap: Durness Youth Hostel
- 🏢 Apartment: Achmelvich View self catering
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: West Horizon Holiday Cottage
- 🏩 For Couples: Sea View Cabin
1. 🌞 Top 10 Best Beaches on the West Coast of Scotland
🏖️ Achmelvich Beach, Sutherland – Best for Tropical Vibes
Achmelvich Beach is a slice of Caribbean-like beauty in the Scottish Highlands. Its crystal clear turquoise waters and white sandy beach create a stunning contrast against the rugged landscape. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. During low tide, visitors can explore hidden coves and rock pools teeming with marine life. The surrounding area offers great hiking trails with panoramic views. The beach has good facilities, including a small shop and toilets. It’s popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Best Hotels Near Achmelvich Beach 🏨
- North Coast 500 Pods – These cozy pods offer a unique glamping experience near Achmelvich Beach, one of the finest beaches in Scotland. Each pod features stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is equipped with basic amenities. The campsite is an ideal base for exploring the North Coast 500 route and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Ardmore House B&B – Located in Lochinver, this B&B offers comfortable rooms and is just a short drive from Achmelvich Beach. It provides a homely atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea. The B&B is an excellent base for hiking, fishing, and exploring the local area, including the beach featured in the film “Local Hero”.
- 102 Apartment – This modern apartment in Lochinver offers self-catering accommodation close to Achmelvich Beach. It features a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living space. The apartment’s location provides easy access to local amenities and is perfect for those wanting to explore the beautiful beaches and rugged landscape of the area.
🌄 Sandwood Bay, Sutherland – Best for Wilderness Experience
Sandwood Bay is a secluded beach that’s well worth the drive and short walk to reach. It stretches for miles, backed by towering sand dunes and overlooked by the iconic Am Buachaille sea stack. The beach is rich in Viking and shipwreck history, adding to its mystique. Visitors might spot seals and even whales from the shore. It’s one of the most unspoilt beaches in mainland Britain, offering a true wilderness experience. The dramatic coastal scenery makes it a favorite among photographers. The 4-mile walk to the beach adds to the sense of adventure and isolation.
Best Hotels Near Sandwood Bay 🏨
- The Rhiconich Hotel – This traditional Scottish hotel is located in Rhiconich, offering a convenient base for visiting Sandwood Bay, one of Scotland’s most remote and beautiful beaches. The hotel features comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. It’s an ideal stop for those hiking to Sandwood Bay or exploring the North West Highlands.
- Durness Youth Hostel – This budget-friendly hostel in Durness is a great option for travelers looking to explore Sandwood Bay. It offers basic dormitory and private rooms, as well as a self-catering kitchen. The hostel is popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, with staff able to provide local information about accessing Sandwood Bay.
- Kempie's Cozy House on the NC500 – This cozy house in Kinlochbervie offers a comfortable stay for those visiting Sandwood Bay. It features a fully equipped kitchen and living area, making it ideal for self-catering. The house is located close to the starting point of the hike to Sandwood Bay and provides a warm retreat after a day of exploring.
🏄♂️ Clachtoll Beach, Sutherland – Best for Surfing
Clachtoll Beach is a beautiful bay that offers more than just stunning views. Its crystal clear waters and consistent waves make it a favorite among surfers and water sports enthusiasts. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rock formations, creating a picturesque setting. It’s a great spot for rock pooling at low tide, with a variety of marine life to discover. The nearby Split Rock is an interesting geological feature worth exploring. The beach has good facilities, including parking and toilets. It’s also a popular spot for wild camping, offering a chance to sleep under the stars.
Best Hotels Near Clachtoll Beach 🏨
- The Smithy House & Cottages – These charming cottages near Lochinver offer a comfortable stay close to Clachtoll Beach. Each cottage features a fully equipped kitchen and living area. The property is ideally located for exploring the beautiful beaches and rugged landscape of the Assynt region.
- West Horizon Holiday Cottage – This holiday cottage in Clachtoll offers stunning sea views and is just a short walk from Clachtoll Beach. It features a cozy living area and fully equipped kitchen. The cottage’s location provides easy access to the beach and local attractions, including the Split Rock and the Stoer Lighthouse.
- Sea View Cabin Clashnessie – This cabin offers panoramic sea views and is located near Clachtoll Beach. It features a compact living space with basic amenities. The cabin’s location provides a peaceful retreat and easy access to the beautiful beaches and hiking trails of the area.
🏔️ Mellon Udrigle, Highland – Best for Tranquil Escapes
Tucked away in the Highlands, Mellon Udrigle is a tranquil oasis that feels worlds away from the tourist crowds. Its fine white sand and turquoise waters are framed by a dramatic mountain backdrop. The beach offers panoramic views of the Sutherland mountains and the Summer Isles. It’s a great spot for peaceful walks and wildlife watching, with chances to see seabirds and seals. The clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling on warmer days. The beach is rarely crowded, offering a sense of solitude and connection with nature. Nearby hiking trails provide opportunities for further exploration of the stunning Highland landscape.
Best Hotels Near Mellon Udrigle 🏨
- The Lovecroft Guest House – Located in Gairloch, this guest house offers comfortable rooms and is a short drive from Mellon Udrigle beach. It features stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a cozy atmosphere. The guest house is an excellent base for exploring the beautiful beaches and mountains of Wester Ross.
- Ocean View – This property in Laide offers stunning ocean views and is close to Mellon Udrigle beach. It features comfortable accommodation with modern amenities. The location provides easy access to the beach and is perfect for those looking to explore the beautiful coastline of Wester Ross.
- An Cois Na Mara Bed & Breakfast – This B&B in Aultbea offers comfortable rooms and is a short drive from Mellon Udrigle beach. It features stunning sea views and a warm Scottish welcome. The B&B’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the beaches and mountains of the area.
🐚 Oldshoremore, Sutherland – Best for Beachcombing
Oldshoremore is a beautiful sandy beach that’s perfect for those who love to explore. With its abundance of shells and interesting rock formations, it’s a beachcomber’s paradise. The beach offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby islands. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, with various seabirds nesting in the area. The clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling when the weather permits. During the summer months, visitors might spot dolphins playing in the bay. The surrounding machair (grassy plains) bursts into color with wildflowers in late spring and early summer.
Best Hotels Near Oldshoremore 🏨
- Scourie Hotel – This traditional hotel in Scourie offers comfortable rooms and is a short drive from Oldshoremore beach. It features a restaurant serving local cuisine and is popular among anglers. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beautiful beaches and landscapes of North West Sutherland.
- Handa Pod in Scottish Highlands – This unique pod offers a cozy glamping experience near Scourie and is a short drive from Oldshoremore beach. It features basic amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The pod’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the beaches and wildlife of the area, including the nearby Handa Island.
- Tighlochan Pods – These pods in Kinlochbervie offer a comfortable glamping experience close to Oldshoremore beach. Each pod features basic amenities and beautiful views. The pods’ location provides easy access to the beach and is perfect for those looking to explore the stunning coastline of North West Sutherland.
👨👩👧👦 Sanna Bay, Ardnamurchan – Best for Family Adventures
Sanna Bay is one of those perfect spots that caters to everyone. Its shallow waters and soft sand make it popular with families. The beach offers stunning views of the Small Isles and Skye on clear days. It’s a great place for building sandcastles, paddling, and beach games. The surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for more adventurous travelers, including hiking and wildlife spotting. The nearby Ardnamurchan Lighthouse is worth a visit for its panoramic views. The beach is part of a nature reserve, offering chances to see rare flora and fauna.
Best Hotels Near Sanna Bay 🏨
- Mingary Castle – This restored 13th-century castle offers luxury accommodation near Sanna Bay. It features stunning sea views and elegant rooms with modern amenities. The castle lies just south of Sanna Bay and provides a unique, historic stay in the Ardnamurchan peninsula.
- Volcano Cabins – These cozy cabins offer a rustic retreat near Sanna Bay. They provide comfortable accommodations with kitchenettes and outdoor seating areas. The cabins are an excellent base for exploring the Ardnamurchan peninsula and its beautiful beaches.
- Borve House – This charming guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with sea views near Sanna Bay. It features a garden and is close to the Kilchoan ferry terminal. The guesthouse provides a peaceful stay with easy access to the wee village of Kilchoan and surrounding natural beauty.
🦅 Gairloch Beach, Highland – Best for Active Beach Days
Gairloch Beach isn’t just about sunbathing and swimming. It’s a hub of activity, offering everything from watersports to wildlife watching tours. Visitors can try their hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, or even sailing. The beach is a great spot for fishing, with the chance to catch mackerel from the shore. Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for eagles soaring overhead and dolphins in the bay. The nearby village offers amenities including cafes, shops, and a heritage museum. The beach provides stunning views of the Torridon mountains across the water.
Best Hotels Near Gairloch Beach 🏨
- Clachan Garbh – This cozy bed and breakfast is located near Gairloch Beach, offering comfortable rooms and stunning views. It features a garden and is close to local attractions. The B&B provides a perfect base for exploring the beautiful Gairloch area and its beaches.
- MacRae Croft – This traditional croft house offers self-catering accommodation near Gairloch Beach. It features a garden and provides a authentic Scottish Highland experience. The croft is ideally located for exploring the Craig Highland Farm and surrounding coastal areas.
- Gairloch 'A Bespoke' – This unique property offers a tailored stay near Gairloch Beach. It features customizable amenities and is close to local attractions. The accommodation provides a personalized experience for those looking to explore the Gairloch area and its beautiful esplanade.
✈️ Traigh Mhor, Isle of Barra – Best for Unique Experiences
Traigh Mhor on the Isle of Barra is unique in that it doubles as the island’s airport runway at low tide. Watching planes land on the beach is an unforgettable experience. The beach itself is a beautiful stretch of white sand with clear blue waters. It’s a great spot for cockle picking at low tide, a traditional local activity. The surrounding machair is home to a variety of rare wildflowers in summer. The beach offers stunning views across to Eoligarry and the islands to the north. It’s a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing when conditions are right.
Best Hotels Near Traigh Mhor 🏨
- Sighthill Cottage – This charming cottage offers self-catering accommodation near Traigh Mhor. It features a garden and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The cottage is an excellent base for exploring the beautiful beaches of the Isle of Lewis.
- Remuera – This comfortable holiday home is located near Traigh Mhor on the Isle of Lewis. It offers modern amenities and is close to local attractions. The property provides a perfect retreat for those looking to explore the beautiful beaches and landscapes of the Outer Hebrides.
- Mackenzie – This well-appointed apartment offers a comfortable stay near Traigh Mhor. It features modern amenities and is conveniently located for exploring Stornoway and the surrounding areas. The apartment provides an excellent base for discovering the beautiful beaches of Lewis and Harris.
🏝️ Camas Mor, Isle of Muck – Best for Secluded Getaways
Camas Mor on the tiny Isle of Muck is one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets. This small beach offers solitude and stunning views across to the Small Isles. The clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with the chance to see various marine life. The beach is backed by green fields often populated by Highland cattle. It’s a great spot for peaceful walks and picnics, with a sense of being far from the modern world. The island itself is worth exploring, with friendly locals and a unique slow-paced lifestyle. Visitors might spot seals basking on the nearby rocks or otters playing in the shallows.
Best Hotels Near Camas Mor 🏨
- Gairloch Carn Dearg – This holiday home offers comfortable accommodation near Camas Mor. It features stunning views and is close to local attractions. The property provides an excellent base for exploring the beautiful beaches and landscapes of the Gairloch area.
- Little Haven – This cozy cottage offers a peaceful retreat near Camas Mor. It features a garden and is close to local amenities. The cottage provides a perfect base for those looking to explore the beautiful coastline and beaches of Wester Ross.
- Ach Na Clachan – This traditional Highland cottage offers self-catering accommodation near Camas Mor. It features a garden and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The cottage is ideally located for exploring the beautiful beaches and coastal walks of the Gairloch area.
🏴 Port Eynon, Isle of Arran – Best for Coastal Village Charm
While technically not on the west coast, Port Eynon on the Isle of Arran is too good to leave off this list. This beautiful bay is backed by a charming coastal village, offering the perfect mix of beach life and local culture. The beach is great for swimming, with lifeguards on duty during summer months. It’s a popular spot for watersports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. The village offers amenities including cafes, shops, and a traditional fish and chip shop. The nearby Port Eynon Point offers great coastal walks with stunning views. The beach has interesting historical features, including the ruins of a 16th-century salt house.
Best Hotels Near Port Eynon 🏨
- 35 Gower Holiday Village – This holiday home is part of a village complex near Port Eynon Beach. It offers comfortable accommodation and access to shared facilities. The property is ideally located for exploring the beautiful Gower Peninsula and its stunning beaches.
- 22 Gower Holiday Village – This cozy chalet is located in the Gower Holiday Village near Port Eynon. It features modern amenities and is close to the beach and local attractions. The chalet provides a perfect base for families looking to enjoy the beautiful coastline of the Gower Peninsula.
- 46 Gower Holiday Village – This comfortable holiday home is situated in the Gower Holiday Village near Port Eynon Beach. It offers a well-equipped living space and is close to local amenities. The property provides an excellent base for exploring the beautiful beaches and coastal paths of the Gower Peninsula.
2. 🌊 Activities and Water Sports
🚣♀️ Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Kayaking and paddleboarding are fantastic ways to explore Scotland’s coastline. Arisaig offers opportunities to paddle around the Small Isles and discover secluded beaches. Plockton allows exploration of a picturesque village and its surrounding waters. Circumnavigating the Isle of Bute provides a real adventure for experienced paddlers.
🏊♀️ Swimming and Snorkeling: While chilly, swimming off Scotland’s west coast beaches is an invigorating experience. Achmelvich Beach offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, as close to a tropical paradise as you’ll find in Scotland. The Silver Sands of Morar provide shallow waters perfect for a refreshing dip. Loch Morlich, though not coastal, offers warmer freshwater swimming.
🏄♂️ Surfing and Bodyboarding: Scotland’s west coast offers fantastic breaks for surfers of all levels. Thurso East, while on the north coast, is a world-class break worth the trip for serious surfers. Machrihanish on the Kintyre Peninsula offers consistent waves and stunning views. Tiree, known as the ‘Hawaii of the North’, is a surfer’s paradise with numerous beaches facing different directions.
🥾 Coastal Walks and Beach Exploration: Walking is often the best way to experience Scotland’s west coast beaches. Sandwood Bay requires a 4-mile hike but rewards with unspoiled beauty. A boat trip to Loch Coruisk on Skye offers a hidden loch surrounded by the Cuillin mountains. The Cape Wrath Trail, a 230-mile trek, showcases the best of Scotland’s north west coast for the truly adventurous.
🦅 Additional Coastal Activities: Scotland’s west coast offers diverse activities beyond beach lounging. Wildlife watching opportunities abound, with chances to spot seals, otters, and various seabirds. Beachcombing for interesting shells and sea glass is a relaxing pastime. The dramatic landscapes and ever-changing light make for excellent photography opportunities. Sea angling, either from shore or boat, is popular.
3. 🌄 Nearby Attractions and Day Trips: Beyond the Beach
🏝️ Isle of Skye: The Isle of Skye is a dream destination for photographers. Its dramatic landscapes, from the jagged Cuillin mountains to the otherworldly Fairy Pools, offer endless opportunities for stunning images. Visit the Old Man of Storr at sunrise for a truly magical photo opportunity.
🏰 Eilean Donan Castle: Eilean Donan Castle is arguably the most photographed castle in Scotland. Perched on a small island where three sea lochs meet, it offers a stunning view of the surrounding Highlands. The castle has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and was restored in the early 20th century.
🏔️ Cairngorms National Park: While not on the coast, Cairngorms National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers hiking trails for all levels, wildlife watching opportunities (look out for red deer and golden eagles), and winter sports in season. The park boasts stunning Highland landscapes, ancient Caledonian pine forests, and sparkling lochs.
🏘️ Coastal Villages and Towns: The west coast is dotted with charming coastal villages. Plockton, known as the “Jewel of the Highlands,” is famous for its palm trees and was a filming location for TV series. Ullapool, a bustling port town, is great for sampling fresh seafood and enjoying live traditional music. Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is known for its colorful harbor and was the setting for the children’s TV show “Balamory”.
4. 📅 Best Times to Visit West Coast Beaches
☀️ Summer (June-August): Peak Season Bliss
Summer brings Scotland’s west coast beaches to life with longer daylight hours, perfect for evening beach strolls. Expect warmer temperatures (though “warm” is relative in Scotland!) and all beach facilities in full swing. The atmosphere is lively with local events and festivals. Arrive early to secure a prime spot on popular stretches of sand and enjoy tranquility before crowds arrive. It’s the perfect time for beach barbecues and outdoor events.
🍂 Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): The Sweet Spot
The shoulder season offers milder temperatures with fewer crowds, making it ideal for beach visits. Enjoy beautiful spring blooms or autumn colors, along with lower prices for accommodations and rentals. It’s great for outdoor activities and photography. Book accommodations and activities in advance for the best deals. This period is perfect for beach walks, hiking, and wildlife watching, especially for seabirds.
❄️ Off-Season (November-March): Dramatic Beauty
While not ideal for sunbathing, the off-season offers dramatic ocean views and powerful waves. It’s perfect for storm watching and moody photography. Enjoy peaceful atmospheres with virtually empty beaches and authentic local experiences without tourist crowds. Focus on beaches closer to town centers, where you’ll find cozy cafes to warm up in after your beach walk. Winter offers a unique perspective on Scotland’s coastal beauty.
🎯 Best Months for Specific Activities
Different months offer ideal conditions for various beach activities. Beach walks and hiking are best in April, May, September, and October. Wildlife watching is great from April to October for seabirds, and year-round for seals. The best surfing swells are from September to April. For photography, visit year-round, but especially during sunrise/sunset in shoulder seasons. June and September offer a great balance for experiencing various beaches on day trips.
5. 🚌 How to Get to West Coast Beaches
🚗 By Car: Driving is one of the best ways to discover Scotland’s west coast beaches. Many beaches are within a few hours’ drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. The journey itself offers scenic routes that are as beautiful as the destinations. Be prepared for small car parks at some of the more remote beaches.
🏝️ Island Hopping: Some of Scotland’s most stunning beaches are on its islands. CalMac operates ferry services to most Scottish islands, while some islands like Barra have small airports. Tour boats are great for day trips to smaller islands or westerly outposts.
🚂 Public Transportation: Public transportation offers a great alternative for reaching many west coast beaches. ScotRail provides train services to coastal towns like Oban and Mallaig. Bus services like Citylink connect major cities to coastal areas. Ferries operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) are essential for reaching island beaches.
FAQs about Trip to Best West Coast Scotland Beaches ❔
What is the most scenic beach in Scotland?
Camas Mor Beach on the Isle of Harris is often considered one of the most scenic beaches in Scotland, known for its white sand and turquoise waters.
Which side of Scotland is the warmest?
The west coast of Scotland is generally warmer than the east coast, due to the influence of Atlantic Ocean currents and the Gulf Stream.
Is Scotland more rainy than England?
Yes, Scotland generally receives more rainfall than England, especially in the western and mountainous regions. However, parts of eastern Scotland can be quite dry.
Is East or West Coast of Scotland better?
This is subjective, but both coasts have their unique attractions:
- The West Coast is known for dramatic scenery, islands, and warmer temperatures.
- The East Coast offers more consistent weather, historic towns, and is less crowded with tourists.
The “better” coast depends on personal preferences and what you’re looking for in your visit.
