Long sandy beaches, sheltered bays and 130 miles of Atlantic coastline. Here are our favourite wild swimming spots off Islay’s coastline.
Be aware that not everywhere is safe for swimming on Islay due to the strong tides and currents, always swim with a buddy and check the tides beforehand.
Location: 5 minute walk from the Machrie
On the west coast of Islay, a short walk from the hotel’s front door lies The Big Strand. A 7 mile expanse of sandy beach located in Laggan Bay. It’s a popular spot for swimming, fatbiking and sunset picnics and stretches from Laggan Point through Machrie to Kintra.
Location: 20 minute drive
Sheltered with fairly shallow water, located at the head of Loch Indaal.
Location: 10 minute drive
Kilnaughton beach is calm, sheltered and shallow making it ideal for small children. Walk round the ruins of an old chapel and after, there are restaurants, cafes, car park and toilets nearby in Port Ellen.
Distance: 30 minute drive
On the west coast of Islay is a large loch, surrounded almost entirely by hills and trees providing shelter from the wind and waves. Perhaps the warmest spot to go for a swim on Islay thanks to its land-locked nature.
Explore the rest of Islay by car, boat, fatbike or foot, find inspiration with Another Place at The Machrie.
