Islands-generic
UK Islands with the Best Beaches, Views & Wild Swims
Find Your Perfect Wild Blue Escape
If you’re searching for soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable views – the UK’s islands have some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the world. Whether you’re a wild swimmer, a beach lover, or simply craving space and serenity, these stunning island destinations deliver.
Here are five of the most beautiful UK islands for wild swimming, coastal hiking, and beach days with a view.
1. Tresco, Isles of Scilly
Tresco is often described as the UK’s answer to the Caribbean – thanks to its white sands, tropical gardens, and turquoise seas. With car-free trails, calm swimming spots, and epic sunsets, it’s a paradise for water lovers.
- Highlights: Pentle Bay and Appletree Bay — both ideal for safe, scenic swims
- Best for: Couples, nature seekers, gentle swimmers
- Access: Ferry or plane to St. Mary’s, then boat to Tresco
More information on visiting Tresco and things to do here
Swimming on Tresco
2. St Martin’s, Isles of Scilly
St Martin’s is a peaceful, sun-drenched escape known for its sweeping white beaches, wildflower-strewn paths, and some of the clearest waters in the UK. With no cars and barely any crowds, it’s perfect for slow days and salty swims.
• Highlights: Great Bay and Lawrence’s Bay — stunning, quiet beaches for swimming and shell hunting
• Best for: Beachcombers, sea swimmers, families seeking tranquillity
• Access: Ferry or plane to St Mary’s, then boat to St Martin’s
More information on visiting St Martin’s and things to do here
St Martins
3. Herm, Channel Islands
No cars. No crowds. Just sparkling seas, coastal trails, and some of the clearest swimming water in the British Isles. Herm is small but spectacular — ideal for wild swimming and safe for families.
- Highlights: Shell Beach and Belvoir Bay — sheltered and shallow
- Best for: Families, beginner wild swimmers, snorkelling, warm weather
- Access: Ferry from Guernsey
More information on visiting Herm
Herm beaches
4. Ynys Giftan, North Wales
Tucked into the Dwyryd Estuary near Portmeirion, Ynys Giftan is a peaceful tidal island offering big skies, salt marsh views, and total tranquillity. Reachable on foot at low tide, it’s a magical spot for walkers and birdwatchers alike.
• Highlights: Estuary views, wildflowers, wading birds and tidal solitude
• Best for: Quiet walkers, nature lovers, off-grid explorers
• Access: Walk across the estuary from near Talsarnau (low tide only – check times)
More information on walking to Ynys Giftan and things to do here
Sun warmed pools around Ynys Giftan
5. Gateholm, Pembrokeshire
A rugged tidal island off Marloes Sands, Gateholm is steeped in mystery and Iron Age history. Accessible at low tide, it’s known for its windswept headland, dramatic rock formations, and ancient hut circles overlooking the sea.
• Highlights: Wild swimming at Albion Sands, clifftop views, seabirds, Iron Age/early medieval remains
• Best for: Wild swimmers, adventurous walkers, history buffs, dramatic coastal scenery
• Access: Walk from Marloes Sands at low tide (via National Trust car park – check tide times)
More information on visiting Gateholm and things to do here
Gateholm Island
6. Isle of Coll, Inner Hebrides
Remote and wild, Coll is one of the best islands in Scotland for beach walks and sea swims. Its white sand beaches are framed by machair grasses and backed by some of the UK’s darkest skies.
- Highlights: Crossapol and Feall Bay, plus bioluminescent plankton in summer
- Best for: Adventurous swimmers, stargazers, and solitude lovers
- Access: CalMac ferry from Oban
More information on visiting the Isle of Coll and things to do here
Crossapol Bay, Coll
7. Seil Island, Argyll, Scotland
Just a short drive and a dramatic stone bridge away from the mainland, Seil Island is home to hidden coves, sea lochs, and glassy inlets — perfect for wild swimming and paddling. Excellent swimming at the Easedale slate quarries are also a short ferry ride away.
- Highlights: Tigh-an-Truish bay, views across to Mull, and sheltered swim spots
- Best for: Road-trippers, paddlers, relaxed wild swimmers
- Access: Bridge from mainland Scotland (Clachan Bridge)
More information on visiting Seil Island and things to do here
Seill by John Phillips is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
8. Eilean Shona, West Coast Scotland
A private, car-free island with ancient woodland, quiet lochs, and secret beaches, Eilean Shona offers a tranquil escape. With both sea and freshwater swim spots, it’s perfect for a quiet retreat or wild swim getaway.
- Highlights: Loch Moidart views, hidden tidal inlets, forested trails
- Best for: Creative retreats, cold water enthusiasts, peace and quiet
- Access: Boat transfer from Dorlin (by arrangement)
More information on visiting Eilean Shona and things to do here
Paddling out to Shona Beag
9. Taransay, Outer Hebrides
Once made famous by the TV series Castaway 2000, Taransay is now a quiet, uninhabited island off the coast of Harris. With wildflower meadows, white beaches, and views to the mountains of North Harris, it’s a dream for wilderness lovers.
• Highlights: Swimming at Landing Beach, machair blooms, and otters
• Best for: Wild swimmers, solitude seekers, Hebridean adventurers
• Access: Borve Estate boat or kayak from Harris (usually from Horgabost or Luskentyre)
More information on visiting Taransay and things to do here
Taransay beaches
Tips for Wild Swimmers
- Wear a brightly coloured tow float for visibility and safety
- Check tides and local conditions before you swim
- Use a dry robe or waterproof changing poncho for comfort after your dip
- Swim with a buddy and avoid unfamiliar water alone
Escape to the Islands
From bioluminescent beaches in Scotland to tropical-feeling bays in the Channel Islands, the UK’s wild blue places offer the perfect mix of natural beauty and soul-soothing swims.
Start planning your beach and swim adventures with the 4,000 Isles Project →
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