A journey through our Scottish Atlantic islands will take you to some of the most stunning beaches in the British Isles. From hauntingly beautiful hidden coves to stretches of strand that go on for miles, the white-sand and clear turquoise waters are truly a feast for the eyes.

Stroll along a quiet beach with the only noise being that of nature itself. Feel the bracing sea breeze on your face as you spot the abundant wildlife. Inhale the invigorating sea air for a sense of pure relaxation as the waves roll in.    

Many of our beaches are fringed by machair - a fertile coastal grassland, which in the summer becomes a multi-coloured carpet of wildflowers including harebells, clover and often rare and delicate orchids.  Just strolling to the beach through the machair, becomes a treat in itself, with glimpses of rare bumblebees and butterflies.  Your paces slow as you enjoy the scent of the wild flowers and tune into a different frequency.  

Our beaches can have a tropical vibe (apart from the wind chill) so much so, the Thai Tourist Board mistakenly used an image of one of our beaches (West Beach, Berneray) to promote a beach in Thailand! Indeed West Beach, Berneray, appeared in Lonely Planet's Top 100 Most Incredible Beaches in the World in 2024.

We have over 100 beaches in the Outer Hebrides and we've picked out a just a few Seek out some of equally absorbing beaches throughout the Outer Hebrides:

1. Eoligarry Beach - Barra

Eoligarry Beach is a breathtaking expanse of white sand located on the northern tip of the Eoligarry Peninsula on the Isle of Barra. This stunning beach, stretching approximately 1.2 miles, is a serene spot for relaxation and exploration. 

Eoligarry Beach: https://www.instagram.com/steve_gormley

2. Coilleag a’Phrionnsa (Tràigh Leis) – Eriskay

Located on the picturesque Isle of Eriskay, this beach is a place of both natural beauty and historical significance. This stunning beach, with its soft white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, is where Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot on Scottish soil in 1745 during his ill-fated Jacobite uprising. 

Coilleag a'Phrionnsa or Tràigh Leis: https://www.instagram.com/comealongdear/

3. West Coast Beaches - South Uist

The beaches along the west coast of South Uist are truly breathtaking, offering around 20 miles of unspoiled white sands backed by machair and lapped by turquoise waters. Stretching almost the entire length of the island’s western shore, these beaches are some of the finest in the Outer Hebrides. Their tranquil beauty, rolling dunes and vibrant wildflowers of the machair in summer, makes them an ideal destination for peaceful walks, birdwatching, and admiring the stunning coastal views. 

West Coast Beach, South Uist: https://www.instagram.com/dirtsloth

4. West Beach - Berneray

A truly stunning beach and was voted in 2021 as no. 3 in Lonely Planet's Top 20 Best beaches in Europe and in 2024 appeared in Lonely Planet's top 100 beaches worldwide! It is so stunning that back in 2009, the Thai Tourist Board mistakenly used the image to promote Kai Bae Beach  - an easy mistake to make given the turquoise sea and white sandy beach!

Berneray West Beach: https://www.instagram.com/keith.walkingshaw

5. Tràigh Mheilein - Harris

Tràigh Mheilein at Crabhadail is a hidden gem on the Isle of Harris, offering a secluded and tranquil retreat for visitors. Tucked away on the western coastline, this beach is renowned for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic backdrop of rugged hills. Accessible via a scenic walk, Crabhadail rewards adventurers with unspoiled natural beauty and a sense of peaceful isolation. 

Tràigh Mheilein: https://www.instagram.com/rutha.hamilton

6. Tràigh Mhòr, Tolsta – Lewis

Tràigh Mhòr Beach at Tolsta, located on the north eastern shores of the Isle of Lewis, is a sweeping expanse of golden sands backed by dramatic cliffs and rolling machair. Translating to "Big Beach" in Gaelic, Tràigh Mhòr lives up to its name with its vast shoreline and stunning Atlantic views. This unspoiled beach is perfect for peaceful walks, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the raw beauty of the Outer Hebrides. 

Tràigh Mhòr: https://www.instagram.com/ghensh

7. Eorpoie Beach – Lewis

Eoropie Beach (Tràigh Shanndaigh) is a breathtaking expanse of golden sand located on the northernmost tip of the Isle of Lewis. Nestled near the village of Eoropie, this beach is framed by dramatic dunes and rugged coastal landscapes.

Eoropie Beach (Tràigh Shanndaigh): https://www.instagram.com/eddielkh