Three Scottish Hidden Gem Beaches That Locals Don't Want You to Find

Away Resorts, a caravan holiday provider, has published a list of the top 10 hidden gem beaches in the UK that "locals don't want you to find." Three Scottish beaches feature on the roundup, with St Ninian's Isle Beach in Shetland claiming the top spot overall.

St Ninian's Isle Beach: A Natural Wonder

St Ninian's Isle Beach connects St Ninian's Isle to the Shetland Mainland, forming a stunning natural landmark. It is the largest active sand tombolo in the UK—a beach deposit linking an island to the mainland. The 500-metre-long sandy beach, influenced by waves from two opposing directions, holds a Keep Scotland Beautiful Seaside Award. Fans of the BBC series Shetland may recognise the beach from several episodes.

Scarista Beach: Peaceful Hikes and Wildlife

Scarista Beach in the Outer Hebrides ranks sixth on the list. Located on the Isle of Harris along the coast from Luskentyre, it overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is dog-friendly and popular for peaceful hikes, surfing, and wildlife watching—visitors can spot seals, deer, and golden eagles in the area.

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Traigh Mhor: The Beach with a Runway

The third Scottish entry is Traigh Mhor on the Isle of Barra in the Western Isles. Its name means "Big Beach" in Scottish Gaelic. The white shell sand beach is surrounded by machair and is also the site of Barra Airport—the only airport in the world where commercial flights use a tidal beach for take-off and landing. An orange windsock near the tiny airport signals imminent aircraft movement.

Kate Watts, spokesperson for Away Resorts, commented: "When planning a UK beach getaway, it’s easy to be drawn to destinations everyone knows and talks about. However, some of the most stunning beaches can be found away from the busiest hotspots, providing the perfect opportunity to well and truly unwind and switch off from the outside world." She added: "From dramatic coastal scenery to sandy walks along the beach, countless hidden gems across the UK offer equally rewarding seaside escapes, but often without the crowds."