Scotland may be well known for its rugged natural beauty, but white sand beaches aren’t often the first thing people think of.
From the Scottish Highlands to the Borders, the country is bursting with attractions from castles to glens but our beaches have plenty to offer too.
Along the coastline, there are a number of fine white sand beaches which can rival those in the Maldives - even if the weather is unlikely to be as nice.
So if you’re looking for stunning beach scenery, without buying a plane ticket, here are 13 of Scotland’s best white sand beaches.
1. Luskentyre Beach, Harris
On the west coast of South Harris in the Outer Hebrides, the white sands of Luskentyre Beach ripple down to deep aquamarine waters - imparting a feeling of being in a completely different country. | Anneke - stock.adobe.com
2. Berneray Beach, Outer Hebrides
Like long walks along the beach? Then Berneray Beach is for you. The three-mile stretch of white sands includes views of the famous mountains of Harris. In 2021, Lonely Planet listed this “divine” beach on its Top 20 in Europe list. | Hans-Martin Goede - stock.adobe.com
3. Camusdarach Beach, Mallaig
If you want a tropical beach experience - minus the heat - then Camusdarach Beach is an option. North of Fort William, you can see the Isle of Skye from the white sands. In addition, Camusdarach is one of the locations featured in film Local Hero. | Adobe Stock
4. Seilebost Beach, Harris
Close to the small crofting village of Seilebost, this beach can be found along the west side of the Isle of Harris. Here you can enjoy white sands with rocky patches which lead you into the enticing aquamarine waters. | Helen Hotson - stock.adobe.com