About
The Isle of Tiree, often called the “Hawaii of the North,” boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in Scotland. The island has crystal-clear waters, expansive dog-friendly beaches and dunes, and unspoiled landscapes, but there is a reason this is a top destination for windsurfers, kitesurfers and surfing, and that is the wind.
This is not a location to sit on a beach soaking up the sun; the beaches may look like a Caribbean island, but the weather is not.
Dog Access and Rules
The beaches are dog-friendly, but wildlife can be present on or around them, so you must keep your dog under control. Most of the beaches on Tiree have shallow bays that allow safe paddling for your dog when the surf is not too heavy.
Things To See & Do
Tiree only has a coastline 36 miles long, and it can be impacted by the weather and, in particular, the wind, so it can be best to decide which beach to visit based on the wind’s direction and strength. Here’s a guide to the main beaches, starting in the east and going clockwise around the island:
- Caolas Bay: A serene bay on the narrow eastern edge, ideal for exploring shallow waters.
- Gott Bay: We now have the southerly-facing beaches. Tiree’s largest beach, popular with families, windsurfing, and kite surfing. Excellent for long beach dog walks, but sometimes you have sand yachting and kite buggies, which may mean your dog needs a lead.
- Scarinish Harbour Beach: A small beach near the main village, offering views of boats and a charming spot for a peaceful stroll.
- Crossapol Bay: One of the larger beaches is excellent for long walks and has dunes to explore.
- Soroby (Sorobaidh) Bay: A visit should be combined with its neighbour Crossapol. A calm bay is known for its shallow waters, perfect for paddling and relaxing.
- Balephuil Bay: We are now moving to the island’s west side and another great beach. This is known for its wind and waves but is also large enough to walk and explore with rocky areas at either end of the bay.
- The Maze: A sandy beach interspersed with rocks and backed by dunes. It is an excellent beach for exploring and endless photo opportunities.
- Hough Bay: A large, peaceful beach, although less sandy, with more pebbles, it is perfect for solitude and dog walking as it is less busy than its more sandy neighbours.
- Balevullin Bay: A sandy beach backed by dunes renowned for its surfing.
- The Green: We have now turned to the northern-facing beaches. The Green is hard to spot and often missed, providing a tranquil setting.
- Balephetrish Bay: The largest of the northern-facing beaches, with wide sands and dunes that create a peaceful atmosphere, is great for wildlife spotting.
- Vaul Bay: Known for its rocky features. If you head west of the bay, you have the Vaul Broch ruins.
- Salum Bay: A picturesque bay with dunes next to Vaul Bay.
Each beach offers something unique, making Tiree a paradise for coastal explorers.
Access and Facilities
Whether by sea or air, the journey to Tiree is a scenic introduction to the island’s charm and natural beauty. The most popular way to reach Tiree is via ferry, which departs regularly from Oban, a picturesque town on Scotland’s west coast. Tiree also has a small airport, and flights are operated from Glasgow International Airport.
Once you’ve arrived, exploring Tiree is straightforward:
- Car: If you’ve brought your vehicle or hired one on the island, you can easily navigate its quiet roads.
- Bicycle: Tiree’s flat terrain makes it ideal for cycling. You can bring your bike or hire one locally.
- On Foot: Many of Tiree’s beaches and attractions are within walking distance.
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