Explore Isle of Barra (Outer Hebrides) Coast and Beaches

Barra is at the southern end of the Outer Hebrides. The small Island, roughly 60 square kilometres (23 sq mi), boasts several superb beaches including Europe's only beach airport. The beaches on the Altlantic west of the island have white sandy beaches backed by machair dunes. The east has less sandy beaches but has many rocky inlets to explore. Barra's main village is Castlebay, situated in the South of the island, and nearby to Kisimul Castle.


Why not check beaches nearby as we have 23 beaches in Outer Hebrides. You can even take a look at our list of Outer Hebrides dog friendly beaches or even our United Kingdom Blue Flag beach list.

Isle of Barra Outer Hebrides Coast Map

Isle of Barra Outer Hebrides Coast Search Bar

Where would you like to go? Use our search bar to search across all our local listings, ideal for finding that nearest spot to visit:

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Want some ideas on where to visit?

Every favourite location must be visited for the first time. Want some ideas, why not check out the below small selection of coastal locations, including beaches, activities, things to see and do, and places to stay and eat:

Barra-Island-lifeboat-station

Barra Island lifeboat station

For nearly 75 years the Barra Island lifeboat station has had an all weather lifeboat launched from Castlebay on the Isle of Barra Read more…
Cockle-Strand-beach

Cockle Strand Beach

Cockle Strand acts as Barra’s airport when the tide is out. and you are not allowed on the upper beach when the red windsock is flying as flights are taking off and landing. As the name also suggests this bay is famous for it’s cockles. Roadside parking available. Read more…
Sports

Barra Golf Club

Barra Golf Club was set up in 1992 and is the most westerly located golf course in the United Kingdom. Just 6 miles from Castlebay, where you can visit Kisimul Castle, the golf club has spectacular views over the Atlantic. The natural turf of this region gives the course a fantastic playing surface and the 4th hole is said to Read more…
Tangasdale-beach

Tangasdale Beach

Tangasdale Beach can be found on the western coast of the Isle of Barra. This is a stunning white sandy beach which is great for surfing and close to the Isle of Barra Beach hotel with views over the Atlantic. Nearby facilities including car park, small shop and cafe/restaurant at Isle of Barra hotel. Read more…
Traigh-Eais-beach

Traigh Eais Beach

Traigh Eais is a sandy beach backed by sand dunes just to the west of the airport. The beach faces out onto the Atlantic and this can give some good rolling waves. Park near the airport terminal and walk across the machair covered dunes. Read more…
Things to see and do

Kisimul Castle

Kisimul Castle is a medieval castle sited on a rock off Castlebay, on the southern coast of the Isle of Barra. The family stronghold of the Chiefs of Clan Macneil since 1039, Kisimul is the only surviving castle of significance in the Western Isles from this era. Known locally as the ‘Castle of the Sea’, you can take a 5 Read more…
Barra-Heritage-and-Cultural-Centre

Barra Heritage and Cultural Centre

The Barra Heritage & Cultural Centre can be found in Castlebay on Barra and is home to a fascinating collection of photos and mementoes which record the history of the island. The centre also features a craft shop and a restored thatched house, all run by the local historical society. In the summer, art exhibitions are held here and you Read more…
Craigston-beach

Craigston Beach

Craigston beach is an unspoilt sandy beach with interesting rocks to explore on the isle of Barra, Roadside parking available. Read more…
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