We scoured the shorelines of Scotland from coast to coast to list and find the best beach in Scotland to make the most of your trip.
Scotland is a country renowned for its sweeping countryside, rugged clifftops and diverse wildlife.
Not only that, but it is also famous for its amazing stretches of coastline. There’s just something about the sea that can’t be explained when it comes to making us calm, happy and tranquil.
Many of us could quite happily spend hours looking out to sea, without a care in the world. So then, it is perfectly apt, that we decided to attempt to answer the question of what is the best beach in Scotland.
If you love the sea and you love Scotland, here is a list of the very best beaches that Scotland has to offer.
So, stoke up the fire, get your feet up, pour yourself a wee dram and let’s talk Scottish beaches!
So, Which Is The Best Beach in Scotland?
North Coast of Iona
If you clasp your eyes on the coastline on the North Coast of Iona, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d washed up somewhere in the Pacific, on your own private paradise.
The white sandy beach here is situated just Southwest of the Inner Hebrides and is just 3 miles in length. It may be small, but it is considered a true hidden gem of the Scottish coastline.
For those of you who enjoy wildlife and animals such as seals, puffins, whales, basking sharks as well as dolphins, this is a must-visit. These and multiple other species are often spotted here, so be sure to have your camera in hand.
Tolsta Beach
Tolsta Beach, located on the Isle of Lewis, is another beach that has to be seen to be truly appreciated.
Tolsta is a small coastal village that is incredibly quaint and is actually situated in close proximity to the town of Stornoway. Tolsta Beach is wonderful for those of you looking to enjoy a quieter day at the seaside, as there are plenty of coves that would offer the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic. Tolsta Beach is also a hit with surfers, as there can be some very impressive waves here.
Camusdarach Beach
Located on Scotland’s stunning West Coast, in Morar, we have the beautiful Camusdarach beach.
In the summer, this is a hugely popular beach and if you’re wondering what is the best beach in Scotland? this is certainly a contender. With platinum white sands and clear turquoise seas, this beach here could easily double as a Caribbean Paradise.
The seas are generally calm and tranquil and they’re shallow enough to offer plenty of paddling possibilities. On a clear day, it will also offer stunning views out towards the Isle of Skye.
Achmelvich Beach
Achmelvich Beach is a stunning, white sandy beach located in the North-West Highlands of Scotland and is without a firm contender for the best beach in Scotland title. This picturesque beach is a popular spot for caravan and camping, with plenty of spots available for pitching up your tent or parking your RV.
In the summer months, Achmelvich is bustling with activity as it’s a popular spot for water skiers, windsurfers and kayakers alike. The unique morphology of the area means there are many nearby walks and climbs available to explore – including the famous Suilven – so avid hikers won’t be left wanting during their visit.
The beach has long been a favourite among fishers too; boasting an impressive array of species including cod, haddock, whiting, pollack, saithe and mackerel. Of course, if you don’t wish to bring your fishing rod along then you can always take part in one of the organised boat trips which are available here too.
Dogs are welcome on Achmelvich Beach provided owners keep their dogs under control and pick up after them. Rangers have placed posters around the locality reminding visitors of this law so please make sure you look out for them in order to ensure everyone can enjoy this beautiful beach safely and responsibly.
Aberdeen Beach
Finally, the last beach on our list, in our quest to answer the question of ‘what is the best beach in Scotland?’ is Aberdeen Beach.
For those of you who want the authentic bucket and spade, seaside beach experience, complete with traditional fish and chips, an ice cream, and hungry seagulls that won’t leave you alone, Aberdeen Beach is perfect.
In the summer, you will also likely get to enjoy the views of Bottlenose Dolphins in all of their glory. There’s even a former fishing village, complete with quirky white cottages, making this beach a real hit at all times of the year and a great spot to take those unique Instagram pics.
