Gairloch Beach

Gairloch is a picturesque, secluded beach, set amidst rugged moorland and mountainous scenery, with views out over The Minch. Thanks to the scenery, the area is a very popular place for boating and for walking and there are plenty of footpaths not far from the beach.

In 2017 Gairloch was given Designated Bathing Waters status after a successful campaign against plans to discharge sewage into the loch. Because of the proximity of the Gulf Stream, the waters here are relatively warm in summer, but the downside of this is that the warm waters can bring jellyfish to the area.  Most jellyfish here are harmless but some can sting.  The best advice if you see any is to look at these beautiful creatures but not to touch.

The beach has a free car park located next to the Gairloch Golf Club. Gairloch beach is accessed on a wooden boardwalk that cuts through the sand dunes behind it. There are public toilets next to the car park as well as showers.

The village of Gairloch is about a mile to the north of the beach. It boasts a number of pubs, restaurants and places to stay. There is also a caravan park in the area. The Gairloch Heritage Museum tells visitors about the history of the area. Marine wildlife tours can be booked, leaving from Gairloch Harbour, including glass bottom boat trips and whale-watching expeditions.