The Outer Hebrides Guide: The Best Beaches on Lewis & Harris
Forget the crowded summer shores of the mainland! The Outer Hebrides, a rugged string of islands off Scotland’s west coast, offers a truly wild and unforgettable campervan adventure. And if there’s one thing these islands are best known for, it’s their utterly breathtaking beaches. Think turquoise waters, miles of white sand, and a profound sense of peace – often with not another soul in sight!
Visiting the sands of the Western Isles isn’t just a sidequest during a Hebridean island-hop, but a pilgrimage to some of Europe’s most pristine coastal landscapes.
So, whether you’re a wild swimming fan, sandcastle enthusiast, or a sucker for a sandy stroll, get ready – we’re about to unveil the 10 best beaches on Lewis and Harris that are absolutely begging to be explored on your next campervan road trip!
Let’s “dive in”!
The Outer Hebrides: Why Use a Campervan?
A campervan is your ultimate companion for exploring this island paradise. You’ll wake up to the sound of crashing waves, brew your morning coffee with a panoramic ocean view, and have the flexibility to chase the sunshine from one stunning bay to another.
With your bathroom, bedroom and kitchen built-in, gone are the stresses of reaching some far-flung B&B or expensive hotel in time – with a campervan, your itinerary is truly your own.
In your mobile home, you can truly immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Lewis and Harris, uncovering their sandy secrets at your own pace!
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Planning Your Trip
We use the below booking platforms to plan our trips. We hope you find them useful too!
Getting To The Outer Hebrides
If you’re at the wheel of your trusty campervan, your main gateway will be by ferry with CalMac. They operate across several routes, typically departing from the mainland at Ullapool (for Stornoway, Lewis) or Uig on Skye (for Tarbert, Harris/Lochmaddy, North Uist) or Oban (for Barra).
Booking in advance, especially if you’re bringing a car or campervan, is highly recommended – these routes are popular!
For those short on time, you can also fly to Stornoway (Lewis), Benbecula or Barra (here, you land on the beach!).
Whichever way you choose, prepare for breathtaking coastal views and the unique feeling of anticipation as you approach these truly special islands.
The Outer Hebrides: The Best Beaches on Lewis
Traigh Mhòr (Big Beach), Tolsta
A truly spectacular stretch of golden sand, Traigh Mhòr near Tolsta lives up to its name. It’s a vast, sweeping bay perfect for long, bracing walks, kite flying, or simply soaking in the immense scale of the Atlantic.
The drive to get here is part of the adventure, winding through a classic Lewis landscape. Park up, breathe in the fresh sea air, and let the sheer wildness of the place captivate you.
Dalmore Beach, Carloway
This west coast gem is a favourite amongst surfers for its consistent waves, but even if you’re not riding the crest, Dalmore offers incredible beauty.
Backed by dramatic cliffs and often feeling wonderfully secluded, it’s a fantastic spot for beachcombing, picnicking, or simply watching the power of the ocean. The sunsets here are legendary, so if you can time your visit, you’re in for a treat!
Reef Beach, Uig
Nestled in the idyllic Uig area, Reef Beach is a true stunner.
Its name hints at the shallow, clear waters that give it an almost Caribbean feel on a sunny day. This expansive beach is perfect for paddling, building sandcastles, or just enjoying the tranquillity.
The surrounding landscape, with its rolling hills and crofting townships, adds to its charm, making it a picturesque stop on your journey.
Bostadh Beach, Great Bernera
More than just a beach, Bostadh offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. This beautiful sandy cove on Great Bernera is home to a reconstructed Iron Age house, periodically uncovered by the shifting sands. Imagine ancient lives lived on these very shores!
It’s a magical spot where history and natural beauty intertwine, offering a unique and educational experience alongside the stunning views.
Eoropie Beach, Ness
Located at the very northern tip of Lewis, Eoropie Beach is a vast, sandy expanse popular with families thanks to its fantastic play park right by the beach. It’s an excellent spot for letting the kids (or even the adults!) run wild, with plenty of space for games and exploring. The raw beauty of the North Atlantic coast is on full display here, making it a vibrant and invigorating stop.
The Outer Hebrides: The Best Beaches on Harris
Luskentyre Beach
Often heralded as one of the UK’s (and even the world’s!) most beautiful beaches, Luskentyre is a truly iconic Harris gem.
Prepare for dazzling white sands, impossibly clear turquoise waters, and vast expanses that feel utterly untouched. The sheer scale and beauty are overwhelming. While popular, its size means you can always find your own patch of paradise – a must-visit for any campervan traveller!
Seilebost Beach
Just as stunning as its famous neighbour, Luskentyre, Seilebost offers similarly breathtaking views of the sweeping sands, shallow inlets, and the distant mountains of North Harris.
It’s a photographer’s dream, especially as the light changes throughout the day. Often a little quieter than Luskentyre, it provides a fantastic opportunity for serene walks and moments of silent contemplation amidst unparalleled natural beauty.
Horgabost Beach
A smaller, but no less beautiful, bay on the west coast of South Harris, Horgabost is easily accessible and offers stunning views across to the island of Taransay. Its golden sands and clear waters make it perfect for a quick dip on a sunny day or a peaceful stroll.
There’s a small, friendly campsite nearby, making it a convenient and picturesque spot to park up your campervan for the night!
In Need of a Hebridean Steed?
Scarista Beach
This magnificent beach is another jewel in Harris’s crown, offering a vast, open expanse of golden sand that stretches for miles.
Backed by machair (fertile, low-lying grassy plains), Scarista feels truly wild and remote. It’s an ideal spot for long, invigorating walks, horse riding, or simply enjoying the expansive views out to the Atlantic.
The scale of the landscape here is truly humbling.
Northton Beach (Traigh an Thruim)
A complex of stunning bays and coves near the village of Northton, this area offers a diverse coastal experience. From the main Traigh an Thruim with its extensive sands to smaller, more sheltered coves, there’s something for everyone. The views towards the Harris hills are spectacular, and the area is rich in birdlife.
It’s a fantastic place to explore on foot, discovering hidden corners and enjoying the varied coastal landscape.
Top Tips for Your Outer Hebrides Beach Trip
- Be Weather Ready: Even in summer, the Hebridean weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and windproofs – but also your swimsuit for those surprisingly warm days!
- Watch the Tides: Many beaches reveal vast expanses at low tide, perfect for walking. Check local tide times to make the most of your visit.
- Leave No Trace: These are pristine environments. Whether you’re in a motorhome or are wild camping, take all your litter with you, and stick to designated parking areas. Leave no trace.
- Local Produce: Support local businesses! Stock up on fresh seafood, artisan bread, and local treats for your beach picnics.
- Midges (in summer): If travelling in warmer months, be prepared for midges, especially in the evenings away from the open coast. Repellent is your friend!
- Fuel Up: Fuel stations can be sparse, especially on Sundays. Plan your refuelling stops around larger settlements and townships.
The Outer Hebrides: Sweet as a Beach!
The beaches of Lewis and Harris outlined in this guide are more than just swathes of sand and sea; they are an experience for the soul.
Whether you’re only on Lewis and Harris for a few days or are just beginning to wind your way across the full length of the Western Isles, we hope these recommendations will serve you well.
With your campervan as your base, you’re perfectly equipped to uncover these natural wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy a swim or stroll, then return to your mobile haven overlooking the surf after a long day of adventure. Dust off the sand, get the kettle on, and settle down with a good book while the waves gently wash across the shoreline and the sky ignites with yet another stunning sunset.
With your home-on-wheels at hand, all weather is beach weather!
Happy travels!
Useful Links
- CalMac Ferries – book in advance!
- Visit Outer Hebrides – for where to go and what’s on!
- Met Office – for weather forecasts.
- Traffic Scotland – stay updated on route warnings and changes.
- walkhighlands – for the best hiking trails.
- Highlands 2 Hammocks (that’s us!) – check out our online shop, other blogs and brand-new campervan rental service!
