When you’re dreaming of a beach vacation, Scotland and Ireland aren’t countries that come to mind. But for those who can handle cooler temperatures, beach days to the British Isles are bliss. Just close your eyes, add an extra layer, and sink your toes into the silky-soft sands to imagine you’re in a tropical paradise.

With Covid 19 restrictions now confirmed to extend until at least the middle of May for international holiday, we are pleased to present a few choices that will be an option from 12th April 2021. Arrange a trip to any of these Scottish and Irish beaches to pretend you’ve just stepped off a Caribbean cruise ship.

I am able to arrange accommodation for you near any of the destinations below and provide you with any help and advice you may need to organise your staycation.

Scotland

While Scotland earns praise for its rugged mountains and pristine lakes, its beaches often take a back seat. And that’s a shame since the white-sand beaches of Scotland compete with any in the Caribbean. Make a beeline to the Inner & Outer Hebrides for glimpses of turquoise water and glistening sands. Despite the chillier weather, the untouched scenery of these 5 Scotland beaches will not disappoint.

Camusdarach Beach

Morar

Featured in the film Local Hero, Camusdarach Beach is a sparkling white-sand crescent peering at the rugged Isle of Skye. Perch yourself beside the crystal-clear water, and you’ll have an unbelievable view of rocky hills on the horizon. Camusdarach’s shallow, tranquil water makes it a fantastic spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddling.

Traigh Iar

Isle of Harris

The soft sands of Traigh Iar offer mesmerizing views of the Harris Hills and the Isle of Taransay. Turquoise water crashes against the shoreline, and stones lie on the beach’s outer edges.

Hike the steep slope on the northern side of the shore to find the ancient ‘Clach Mhic Leoid’ stone. The 10-ft stone is rumored to be around 5,000 years old and gazes towards the deep-blue Sound of Taransay.

Bhatarsaigh Bay

Vatersay

Walking the sugar sand beaches on the tiny island of Vatersay gives the impression that you’re lost at sea. The 3-mile x 3-mile landmass is the southernmost inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides and home to a couple of small villages. With its azure waters and rocky hills bordering the immaculate coast, Bhatarsaigh Bay is a picture-perfect place to be stranded.

Langamull Beach

Isle of Mull

As the 2nd largest island of the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Mull receives its fair share of visitors. But the azure-blue water, glistening sands, and hidden coves remain a hidden treasure for adventurous travelers. Although you’ll have to make a 20-minute trek to the shoreline, the serenity is worth the effort.

Stone walls enclose the crystalline water and treat you to stunning views of the Inner Hebrides. Due to the beach’s seclusion, you’ll likely encounter more sheep than people during your visit.

North Coast of Iona

Iona

At only 1.5 miles x 3 miles, the small island of Iona earns praise for its entire northern coastline. The idyllic beaches peppering its shores feature crystal-clear water, rugged stones, and sandy dunes. Just offshore, you can search for an array of marine creatures such as dolphins, whales, and seals. History buffs will love the island’s fascinating tales of Viking raids in the 8th and 9th centuries.

Ireland

The Emerald Isle boasts over 3,000 km of coastline, and much of it is accessible via the Wild Atlantic Way. Just embark on an Ireland road trip to stumble upon golden sands, sea cliffs, and crystal-clear Atlantic waves. Here are 5 beaches in Ireland worthy of a seaside postcard.

Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Beach

Roundstone, County Galway

Forming a tombolo gazing towards the Atlantic Ocean, Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Beach are horseshoe-shaped paradises for beachgoers. Fragments of seashells create the sparkling white color of each shoreline. Only a small patch of greenery separates the two crescents, and you could lounge on both for a fun-filled beach day.

Since both beaches are safe from the Atlantic’s fierce rip currents, they’re great for family outings. Popular activities at Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Beach include swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Keem Bay

Achill Island, County Mayo

Engulfed by rugged cliffs and emerald green hills, Keem Bay is one of the most scenic beaches in Ireland. Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters are perfect for a secluded retreat. The hidden cove requires a nerve-wracking drive along Croaghaun Mountain and doesn’t receive many visitors. But the spectacular ocean vistas on a clear afternoon make this one of the greatest adventures in Ireland.

Murder Hole Beach

Melmore, County Donegal

Don’t be intimated by its name, but Murder Hole Beach may be the most dramatic stretch along the Irish coast. Turquoise waves crash against its golden sands that are backed by rocky outcrops. The mighty Atlantic waves pound the rugged shoreline, and rough currents make swimming a dangerous venture.

During low tide, you’ll have more sand at your disposal to explore the dunes, caves, and hills along the shore. It’s advised to bring footwear during your visit since a trek through a field accesses the beach.

Glanleam Beach

Valentia Island, County Kerry

Stop by this beautiful strip of sand on the Wild Atlantic Way, and you might think you have crash-landed in the Caribbean. Glanleam Beach is one of the warmest beaches in Ireland, and sunbathing is possible on warm summer days. While you’re lounging on the soft sand, you’ll often spot boat tours cruising out to sea.

Five Finger Strand

Lag, County Donegal

To reach this secluded strip of paradise, you’ll have to drive to the northernmost area of Ireland. Just south of Malin Head, Five Finger Strand’s golden shoreline is engulfed by some of Europe’s tallest dunes. After you’ve strolled down the beach, drive above the dunes to witness one of the more impressive sights in Ireland. The stunning vistas from this vantage show the Atlantic waves crashing against Five Finger Strand and a backdrop of rolling hills on the horizon.