Best Beaches in The Summer Isles: Coigach Mainland Peninsula georgina, February 24, 2025February 24, 2025 Best Beaches in The Summer Isles: Coigach Mainland Pennisula The Summer Isles, off Scotland’s northwest coast, have some of the best beaches you can get to without a boat that you wouldn’t believe are in Scotland, and photos never do justice. If you’re after an adventure or just somewhere to soak up the views, these local favourites are well worth the trip. No facilities, no frills, just raw, rugged beauty. Pack extra layers, check the tide times, and get out there. 1. Isle Ristol – Off-the-Beaten-Track If you like your beaches quiet and a bit of an effort to get to, Isle Ristol is a winner. This island is accessible via foot at low tide and has white sand, clear blue water, and makes you feel extremely remote and adventurous! Bring your paddleboard or kayak and make a day of it. 📍 Google MapsAccess: Park at Old Dornie Harbour. Walk across the tidal flats at low tide (seriously, check the tides first or it could be a non starter).Top Tip: Pack everything you need – no shops, no loos, just nature. 2. Achnahaird Bay – Arguably the Best Beach in The Summer Isles Achnahaird is the one that makes you stop and stare. Huge stretch of sand, epic mountain backdrop, and the kind of place you’ll want to spend all day. Perfect for a dip, beach games, or just wandering along the shore. 📍 Google MapsAccess: Single track road from Achiltibuie and follow the turn off to “Beach” …you can’t go wrong. You’ll find a small car park (which you can also camp in) then a very short walk along a path to the beach.Top Tip: Good for Body Boarders! Low tide also reveals even more beach – worth timing your visit. 3. Achininver Beach – Local Favourite Achininver is a hidden gem and part of a cracking circular walk. Bit of a trek to get there, but the reward is a peaceful, postcard perfect beach. If you’re up for a proper stroll rather than a full on hike, this one’s for you. 📍 Google MapsAccess: Park in the car park with signs to Achininver Hostel and follow the clear path down to the water.Top Tip: Decent shoes needed – the path can be muddy if there’s been rain. 4. Garvie Bay – Remote and Wild If you’re after a true hidden gem, Garvie Bay shouldn’t be missed. It’s a small, secluded beach with golden sand and crystal-clear water with plenty of wildlife to spot! This is our favourite beach for a brisk wild swim. 📍 Google MapsAccess: Quickest access is to park in a passing place (safely) here by Loch Osgaig. Head towards the coast and follow the burn and you’ll soon find a petey path that ends at the beach. The walk takes 20-30 minutes and is absolute wild beach paradise.Top Tip: Check the tides, and keep your eyes peeled! Lots of Seals like to play in this bay. 5. Badentarbat Bay – Do it For the Views! Right on the main Coigach road, this one’s an easy option if you’re not up for something easy and relaxed. Badentarbat is a small pebble beach, that often has no sand but top tier views over the Summer Isles. If it’s a calm day, you’ll see paddleboarders and windsurfers making the most of it. 📍 Google MapsAccess: Right off the road, you can park on the green area opposite the beach, you can’t miss it.Top Tip: Sunsets here are unreal with perfect views of the outer summer isles islands – bring your camera and a G & T! Plan Your Trip to the Best Beaches in The Summer Isles If you’re searching for the best beaches in The Summer Isles for a wild (and cold) swim, a lazy afternoon, or just some solid scenery, these beaches are worth the journey. Just remember – wrap up warm, check the tides, and leave no trace. 🔗 Camping Trip? Read more about Wild Camping in The Summer Isles. Beach Summer Isles