Hebridean Wild Swimming: The Underrated Uists!
The Outer Hebrides, a rugged archipelago off the west coast of Scotland, are renowned for their breathtaking beauty and untouched wilderness. Among these islands, the Uists – North Uist, Benbecula, and South Uist – offer a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and incredible wild swimming opportunities for the adventurous!
While the invigorating Atlantic can be a formidable challenge, the crystal-clear waters and hidden coves of the Uists offer an exhilarating experience for both bright-eyed beginners and seasoned swimmers. We started our Hebridean Wild Swimming series on Lewis and Harris, and are now even more excited to head south to some of the most stunning Scottish islands we’ve ever had the pleasure to tour!
So, grab your towel, your wetsuit (highly recommended!), and an open mindset, as we dive into five of the best wild swimming spots around these magical islands (and where to dry off afterwards!)
Let’s go!
Table of Contents
1. West Beach, Berneray
This Berenary beach is a wild swimmer’s dream – three miles of golden sand, surf, and water so clear it feels otherworldly. Bracingly cold, the swim is a true treat, with views stretching to Harris on the horizon. It has all the hallmarks of a classic Hebridean shoreline – white sands, crystalline water and open, endless sky.
It’s not just about the postcard views, however; seals sometimes pop up to say hello, adding to the remote magic, while seabirds wheel overhead. The beach is rarely crowded, giving you that rare sense of solitude. West Beach is wild, raw, and unforgettable – the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and island serenity.
After your swim!
Warm up at The Berneray Shop & Bistro, a cosy community hub where you can grab hot soup, home-baked treats, and get back on the road! Otherwise sit down for a meal, warm your bones and soak in the hospitality of the Western Isles (remember to check seasonal opening times!)
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2. Clachan Sands, North Uist
Clachan Sands, on the north-western coast of North Uist, is a true hidden gem.
This expanse of golden sand gives way to unbelievably clear, turquoise waters that somebody would easily mistake for a Caribbean paradise on a sunny day. The shallow seabed makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely dip, even for those new to wild swimming. The sand here is famously white, composed of crushed shell, which contributes to the incredible clarity and colour of the water. On a calm day, the reflections of the sky and clouds in the glassy surface are simply mesmerising. The bay is relatively sheltered, offering a more tranquil experience than some of the more exposed coastal areas.
After your swim!
You can head south for a short drive to the Lochmaddy Hotel – its bar and restaurant offer a warm welcome, delicious food, and a chance to reflect on your invigorating swim with a view of the harbour. It’s a classic island establishment, full of local character!
Planning Your Trip
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3. Balranald Bay, North Uist
Located near the RSPB Balranald Nature Reserve on the west coast of North Uist, Balranald Bay offers more than just a swim; it’s also a chance to deep dive into the local flora and fauna!
The wide, expansive beach, backed by machair (the unique, fertile grassland found only in the Hebrides), bursts with wildflowers in the summer. The waters here are Atlantic-facing, so expect a bit more swell, but the vastness of the bay means you’ll often have it to yourself. Swimming here, with seabirds soaring overhead and the distant sound of waves, feels incredibly wild and freeing. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and even otters – this is a prime wildlife spotting area.
After your swim!
The Hebredian Smokehouse in Grimsay, a short drive from Balranald (and easily accessible from both North and South Uist), is a fantastic spot. While not a traditional café, they often offer hot drinks and delicious smoked produce to warm you up and refuel. You can also pick up some incredible local delicacies to take home!
4. Traigh Iar, South Uist
A genuinely wild and expansive beach, often battered by the Atlantic waves, Traigh Iar is an exhilarating spot for experienced wild swimmers on calmer days. The sheer scale of the beach, with its dramatic dunes and endless horizon, is awe-inspiring. The sunsets here are legendary, making an early evening swim particularly magical!
After your swim!
You can head inland to the Kildonan Museum and Cafe (which is often open seasonally, so check ahead). This charming museum offers a fascinating insight into the island’s crofting heritage and history, and its cafe provides a perfect respite with hot drinks, homemade cakes, and often, hearty soup – precisely what you need after a bracing swim.
Fun Tip: There are dozens of local honesty sheds scattered across the Hebrides, filled with locally-made cakes, arts and crafts – they’re perfect for a mid-journey snack! We certainly loved visiting each unique stand between stops and coming away with some fun purchases!
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5. An Taigh Mor, Eriskay
For the adventurous wild swimmer seeking a truly unique coastal experience, a trip out to Eriskay offers a memorable seaside jaunt.
The effort to reach this secluded spot is minimal, and the rewards are plentiful – the water here is clear and invigorating, whilst the expansive views of the Atlantic and the surrounding islands, combined with the occasional sight of a small plane heading to or from nearby Barra, create a thrilling backdrop for your midday dip.
This opportunity is wild swimming at its most distinctive, a true connection with the unique character of the Outer Hebrides for those willing to embrace the extraordinary.
After your swim!
This is one for the true wild campers! Due to Eriskay’s remote nature, there isn’t a “local” spot right on its doorstep. Therefore, preparing a well-prepared flask of hot tea or coffee, along with grabbing some hearty snacks before crossing the causeway for your swim, is essential.
Alternatively, on your return, the Polochar Inn in South Uist, a traditional Hebridean inn with a welcoming atmosphere, is a great spot. It’s steeped in history and offers a cosy pub environment with good food and a wide selection of drinks, perfect for warming up after a swim or for dodging the rain if it chases you in!
The Dip of a Lifetime!
Wild swimming in the Outer Hebrides is not only a great excuse for beach-hunting, but for taking time out of your meandering to connect with the Uists and truly immerse yourself in the moment.
The raw beauty of the Isles, the incredible clarity of the water, and the sense of freedom you gain from being at one with nature are truly unparalleled. Remember, though, to always be prepared: check tide times and weather forecasts, wear appropriate swimwear (wetsuits are a game-changer!), and know your limits.
But most importantly, embrace the chill, savour the sunshine and let the wild waters of the Uists wash over you. It’s a rejuvenating sidequest in a Hebridean adventure you won’t soon forget!
Safe travels!
