Scotland’s west coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With miles of pristine coastline, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscape, it’s no wonder that the west coast of Scotland is a popular destination for beach lovers.
Below, we’ve gathered our list of eight of the best beaches to visit while travelling through the west coast of Scotland.
1. Calgary Bay, Isle of Mull
Nestled on the gorgeous Isle of Mull, Calgary Bay boasts soft white shell sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The water is so picturesque that you wouldn’t be blamed for thinking you were in the Caribbean!
Calgary Bay is Gaelic for ‘Beach of Meadow’ which is incredibly fitting due to its backdrop of luscious greenery and flower pastures that grow during the summer months. The small hamlet is so beautiful that the city of Calgary in Canada was named after it.
- Town: Calgary
- Post Code: PA5 6QQ
- Directions ➡️
2. Big Sand Beach, Gairloch
As its name suggests, Big Sand Beach is renowned for its golden sand and panoramic views of the Isle of Skye. To add to its namesake, the beach is accessed through an arrangement of sand dunes.
The most notable town near the Big Sand Beach is Gairloch, which is around 4-miles from the sandy attraction. Although it’s rather secluded, there are useful facilities nearby, such as toilets, showers, and a small shop, all of which can help make your time there that bit more comfortable.
- Town: Gairloch
- Post Code: IV21 2DJ
- Direction ➡️
3. Ganavan Sands, Oban
Conveniently located near our seaside town of Oban, Ganavan Sands is probably the most popular spot for Oban’s locals and visitors alike. With its soft sandy shores and stunning views of the isle of Mull, Lismore, and Morven, this family-friendly beach is perfect for a day of fun, relaxation, and maybe a bit of watersports!
4. Sanna Bay, Achnaha
Tucked away on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Sanna Bay beach is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its white sandy dunes separated by grassland and rocky headlands, this remote beach offers a true sense of wilderness and adventure. It’s not uncommon to share the beach with an iconic Highland Coo’!
We urge you to explore the sand dunes, go wildlife spotting, or simply unwind and enjoy the solitude of this unspoiled paradise. Fortunately, Sanna Bay is easily accessed by car, offering car parking facilities right at the edge of the beach.
- Town: Acharacle
- Post Code: PH36 4LW
- Direction ➡️
5. Kilmory Beach
Located near the village of Lochgilphead, Kilmory Beach is a truly remote and unspoiled experience, overlooking the Paps and Jura.
The beach is so remote that, once you’re parked, we recommend ignoring Google Maps and using the handwritten signs to help direct you.
Kilmory Beach is surrounded by beautiful sand, grassland, and some of the most interesting rock formations found in the area. Visitors can often be seen wild camping on the grassy area around the beach.
- Town: Kilmory, Lochgilphead
- Post Code: PA31 8PB
- Direction ➡️
6. Caol Beach
Located near the village of Caol and town of Fort William, Caol Beach offers a picturesque setting with incredible views of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain peak in the UK!
An iconic and unique feature of this beach is the spooky Corpach Shipwreck that’s been ashore since 2011 when a massive storm broke the vessel away from its mooring.
Although the beach itself isn’t the prettiest, its well-worth the visit to witness the famous shipwreck with Ben Nevis towering in the background.
Coal beach is easily accessed by car!
- Town: Caol
- Post Code: PH33 7AT
- Direction ➡️
Stay with Us
Our boutique shorefront hotel in Oban is the perfect place to set-up base and explore all these incredible west coast beaches. With our gorgeous rooms and luxurious amenities, our hotel and highly rated Italian restaurant is the ideal retreat for you to rejuvenate yourself after an adventurous day exploring. Book here.
