Best beaches in Scotland

In 2017 Scotland was officially voted the most beautiful country in the world. But it wasn’t just shimmering lochs, heather soaked hills and ancient castles that helped Scotland win its crown. Britain’s most northerly nation is also home to some of the most gorgeous beaches on the planet.

Here at Snaptrip, we want to help you explore the very best the UK has to offer. That’s why we’ve scoured Scotland’s stunning shores to find you the best beaches in Scotland. What’s more, we’ve even suggested the perfect place to stay nearby to help make your trip as unforgettable as possible.

Find the best holiday cottages in Scotland

Borve beach

Where: Outer Hebrides

Best for: Spotting some local wildlife

Located on the Western side of the Isle of Harris, amid the wild and remote Outer Hebrides, this beautiful beach is the definition of Scotland. Long stretches of lush green land, transform into rich and golden sand. The jewel blue waters lap against bright red rocks, in a gorgeous clash of colours that’ll have you reaching for your camera.

Most spectacular, however, is who you’ll be sharing this sandy spot with. Borve is one of the best beaches in Scotland for spotting local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled and you’ll see everything from crabs to jellyfish, seals to dolphins, an array of wonderful wading birds, and of course, the iconic Hebridean Sheep and Highland Cattle.

Featured property: Kilbride Cottage

With its original structure dating back to 1909, this fully-refurbished cottage mixes early 20th-century charm, with 21st-century comfort. Nestled in the perfect place for exploring all that the Outer Hebrides has to offer, it serves up spectacular views across the Scottish landscape and the sandy coast. At sunrise, this magnificent cottage becomes one of the most beautiful places in Britain.

Find the best holiday cottages near the Outer Hebrides >

Camusdarach beach

Where: Arisaig

Best for: Unforgettable photo opportunities

Sat just south of the River Morar, Camusdarach is the beach from your wildest dreams. If you’re looking for spectacular views, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better place anywhere in the world.

Its glistening arc of soft white sand stretches into turquoise waters, so blue that on sunny days it blends seamlessly into the sky. The shore is scattered with rock pools, while in the distance, the full majesty of Scotland is on display. 

In the summer months, the views go on forever, out to the Isle of Skye, the rugged blue peaks of Rum and the steep sea cliff of Eigg. It’s no wonder that this visually stunning spot has been used in various films, including the multi-award-winning movie ‘Local Hero’.

Featured property: Peel Lodge

Located a drive from the beach, in the vibrant city of Glasgow, if you’re after a holiday home to make your jaw drop, then look no further. A traditional, 18th-century, Grade B listed building, this cottage is home to bare stone walls and an open log fire, surrounded by the cosiest of armchairs. Best of all, choosing this gorgeous, rustic aesthetic doesn’t mean saying goodbye to modern amenities, as there’s also a fully equipped kitchen and luxurious bathroom.

Check out Peel Lodge

Find the best holiday cottages in the Arisaig >

Camas Daraich

Where: Isle of Skye

Best for: A private paradise

Good things come to those who search. At the far south of the Isle of Skye, Camas Daraich is a place that didn’t want to be found. This secluded beach sits a fair hike from the closest road, across a wild section of the Scottish landscape. But those willing to make the trek will be rewarded with a private paradise and one of the most stunning beaches in Scotland.

Here, you’ll hear nothing but opal blue waters lap against the golden sand. As this concealed cove is surrounded by rugged cliffs on both sides, the strong winds which plague much of the Scottish coast turn to a gentle breeze. If anywhere can make the stress of city life melt away, it’s here in Scotland’s west sands.

Featured property: Glen View Cottage

Nestled in the picturesque village of Stromeferry, a stone’s throw from the sea, this quaint and cosy cottage is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the Scottish countryside. Home to a large enclosed garden, a comfortable living area with an electric wood burner and unbeatable panoramic views of the local landscape from every window, there’s no better place to appreciate the west coast of Scotland.

Find the best holiday cottages in the Isle of Skye >

Seacliff beach

Where: East Lothian

Best for: Uncovering hidden treasures

Lying, hidden in one of the most remote regions of East Lothian, this stunning sandy beach is a true secret treasure. While there’s a small charge to reach the car park, this sandy stretch is well worth the trip.

Hiding behind dense woodland, the best part about visiting this beach is emerging from the forest to stumble upon a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. When you’re done paddling in the beach’s turquoise water and exploring its immaculate sands, behind the beach lies the ruins of Seacliff House, an 18th-century structure destroyed by a fire in 1907.

Featured property: Fenton Tower

Sometimes there are properties which really can’t be summed up in words. Fenton Tower is one of those. This utterly magnificent holiday mansion is a fortified 16th-century tower atop of a gorgeous tree-drenched hill.

From every angle, Fenton Tower looks as if it were stolen from an old Scottish legend, and in many ways it is, having played host to the likes of King James VI. Inside, its magnificent medieval aesthetic meets luxurious 21st-century amenities, as four-poster beds, copper bathtubs and roaring log fires meet power showers and satin sheets.

Check out Fenton Tower

Find the best holiday cottages in the East Lothian