5 Extraordinary Scottish Beaches to Explore in 2025

1. Clachtoll Beach

Nestled in the Highlands, Clachtoll’s turquoise waters and soft sands lie within the North West Highlands Geopark.

Cast your gaze upon the ancient Clachtoll Broch and enjoy idyllic wildlife encounters, from seals to seabirds.

And when night falls, the low light pollution makes it a perfect stargazing haven.

2. Balnakeil Beach

Soft sands, crystal waters, and sweeping dunes make Balnakeil a photographer’s paradise.

Nearby, explore a 16th-century church and the quirky craft village housed in a former Cold War station—melding natural wonder with cultural intrigue.

3. Traigh Beach

Framed by the ethereal Small Isles (Rum, Eigg, Muck, and Canna), Traigh Beach dazzles with postcard-perfect sunsets.

Ideal for swimming, kayaking, or peaceful strolls.

Nearby Camusdarach—famed from Local Hero—offers soft sands and intriguing rock pools. Pro tip: arrive early in summer to avoid crowds.

4. Camusdarach Beach

Famed for its silver sands and crystal waters, Camusdarach Beach is one of Scotland’s most photographed stretches of coastline.

With views across to Skye and the Small Isles — Rum, Eigg, Muck, and Canna — it’s a place of cinematic beauty, made famous in the classic film Local Hero.

A west-coast gem where tranquillity meets drama.

5. Luskentyre Beach

A true standout—Luskentyre boasts miles of white-sand shoreline, turquoise sea, and rolling dunes that rival tropical shores.

With space to roam, you may share the beach only with eagles or otters.

Regularly named among the world’s best beaches, it’s a highlight of the Outer Hebrides.