The best beaches on Islay.

Islay may be famous for it’s peaty single malt whisky but the island also has some of the best beaches in Scotland. Islay has around 130 miles of coastline with picturesque bays, sea lochs, cliff tops and coves so picking a short list of the best beaches on Islay isn’t easy. During a trip to Islay a visit to one of its many beaches is an absolute must so here is the Simply The West guide to the best beaches on Islay.

The Big Strand

The Big Strand has to be one of the best beaches on Islay. At seven miles long it is also the longest and stretches between Bowmore and Port Ellen from Laggan point all the way to Kintra.

There are three main access points to the beach from the low road. The long road between Bowmore and Port Ellen. First is via a gated road at Island Farm through the Laggan Estate just a few miles outside of Bowmore. Second is via the old runway, turning right just before Islay airport. The third is through Kintra farm by turning right just before Port Ellen. The Machrie Golf course also looks out on to The Big Strand.

The Big Strand offers impressive views out towards the Mull of Oa and the Rhinns. The beach is also a great spot for catching dramatic sunsets in the winter.

Saligo Beach

Saligo Beach looks out onto pure Atlantic Ocean. The beach is most distinctly recognised by the ‘Sleeping Giant’ rock at the north end of the bay. Affectionately referred to as ‘Pride Rock’ by the younger generation given its similarity to the famous rock in the Lion King movies.

Saligo is well signposted. From Bowmore head towards Bruichladdich and turn right at the end of the stretch of sand after Black Rock. Follow the single track road along towards Kilchoman Distillery. Look out for signs advising to turn right again for Saligo Beach. Follow signs until you reach the beach and a set of small cottages overlooking the bay.

Saligo is one of the best beaches on Islay as it is a great spot for watching Atlantic waves rolling in from the sea. The rocks along the coast are also excellent for exploring. Saligo is a popular spot with photographers. Many report that no matter what time of day you visit, the lighting is always exceptional for capturing stunning photographs. What do you think?

Machir Bay

Easily one of the best beaches on Islay is Machir Bay. Known commonly among locals simply as Kilchoman. It is one of the most accessible on Islay.

To get to Machir Bay from Bowmore, take the same road you take for Saligo but continue on the same single track road. Pass Kilchoman Distillery on your left until you reach the parking area for the beach. The beach is then a short stroll through the dune path.

Machir Bay sits among a dramatic landscape. The beach has its own shipwreck, miles of dunes and a vast network of rock pools at the south end of the beach. You can enjoy swimming and jumping from the rocks however swimming is not advised in the open water due to strong currents.

Machir Bay is perfect for a leisurely stroll and has some great camping spots if you find that you don’t want to leave!

Take a look at this blog post to see more of Machir Bay at sunset.

Killinallan

Off the beaten track and somewhat of a hidden gem. Killinallan does not get enough credit as one of the best beaches on Islay. At low tide this straight of sand in Loch Gruinart could easily be mistaken for a beach in the Caribbean. Crowds of seals like to bathe on the sand at low tide and will often swim close to shore to greet passing visitors.

Walk right round Killinallan Point for views across to Jura, Colonsay & Mull. Continue round the coast to reach Bolsa. A remote network of caves, natural arches and beaches.

There is definitely a few other contenders that could appear on this post as part of the best beaches on Islay list. Singing Sands, Claggan Bay and Port Ban all spring to mind! Comment with your favourite Islay beach in the comments below.

Islay Prints

Islay prints and poster designs that showcase the best of this Inner Hebridean island. Nothing beats Islay for stunning beaches, wildlife, picturesque villages and single malt whisky so come and explore the Islay prints collection for a sample of Islay, the Queen of the Hebrides.

Shop now