Much like Norway, Scotland’s west coast is carved from sea lochs, giving it a jagged appearance. There are many islands, and secret inlets to explore. A coast of mystery, beauty, drama, and some of the best beaches to be found anywhere in the UK. Below are five to get you started.

Camusdarach, Morar

Camusdarach, Morar

Featured in the film Local Hero, Camusdarach beach is part of the Silver Sands of Morar, a series of gorgeous beaches known for their tropic-esque white sands. Truly, these are amazing beaches, with a crisp, clean feeling, and unbroken views over azure waters to the hazy mountains of Skye.

Whilst the beaches here are notably remote, this doesn’t mean they’re off the radar. They are so uniquely attractive, that people travel from all over to see them. However, it’s still very much worth it. Remember to take a camera because sunsets here are from another world.

Big Sand Beach, Gairloch

Big Sand Beach, Gairloch

This is one of the finest spots in the North West Highlands, in an area known as Wester Ross. It’s thought this part of Scotland has given its name to George RR Martin’s fantasy kingdom of “Westeros”. It’s clear why. A fitting homage to a rugged swathe of Scotland, rife with ancient history and folklore. Though you’re not likely to see a dragon flying over head as you sunbathe on Big Sand beach.

Big Sand is a pristine beach near Gairloch, sheltered from onshore winds by Longa, a small uninhabited island. This makes it the perfect beach to picnic on, and laze around of a summer’s afternoon – without having sand blown in your face.

Sandwood Bay

Sandwood Bay

Considered by some to be the most beautiful in Scotland. Sandwood Bay beach is a highland treasure. A remote stretch of pure sand, nestled between loch and open ocean, and accessed on foot after walking for a few miles. Due to it’s tough to reach location, Sandwood Bay is often quiet. You might be all alone there. Just you and the roar of the breakers rolling in from the wild and fathomless North Atlantic. When people think of untamed Scottish beaches, this is what they picture. The effort expended getting to it will be a small price to pay.

Achmelvich, Assynt

Achmelvich, Assynt

There are so many beaches of sublime prettiness in Scotland, all of which vie for attention. Achmelvich, is a beach that wouldn’t look out of place with a grove of palms swaying in a warm breeze at the high tide line, or with bronzed tourists sipping coconut cocktails. With the sun on the sea, turning it aquamarine, and the white gold sand, it feels exotic. Don’t be fooled though, it is Scotland. So do bring some warm clothes with you, just in case.

Sanna Bay, Ardnamurchan

Sanna Bay, Ardnamurchan

The final beach on our list is on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, renowned for being a peaceful, scenic, and untouched area of the Scottish Highlands. The most western part of mainland Britain. At Kilcamb we can confirm how lovely Ardnamurchan is, as our hotel is on the banks of Loch Sunart, which forms the peninsula.

Sanna Bay is one of our favourite beaches, and we’re lucky it’s so close to home. Unblemished white sands, gradient waters going from dark blue to turquoise, and expansive views of the small isles. It doesn’t get much better. The Ardnamurchan Peninsula is Scotland’s wild west and has an array of rare wildlife to spot – including dolphins, eagles, and whales. So, it’s worth taking a pair of binoculars to Sanna Bay.

Thanks for reading. Feel free to keep exploring our blogs page for more information on Ardnamurchan and things to do and see in the Scottish Highlands.

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