Wild Swimming in the Isles of Scilly: Best Spots for Crystal-Clear Waters

The Isles of Scilly offer some of the most breathtaking wild swimming spots in the UK, with crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and white sandy beaches that feel almost tropical.

Whether you’re an experienced open-water swimmer or just dipping your toes into the adventure, this guide will help you discover the best swim spots, safety tips, local groups and insights, and some of the toughest wild swim challenges for an unforgettable swim in this island paradise.

Why Wild Swim in the Isles of Scilly?

• Pristine, unspoiled waters: The seas surrounding the Isles of Scilly are some of the cleanest in the UK, with excellent visibility for swimming and snorkelling.
• Mild climate and warm waters: Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the sea temperatures are slightly warmer than mainland UK, making wild swimming more inviting.
• Breathtaking scenery: From secluded white sandy beaches to dramatic rocky coastlines, every swim comes with a spectacular view.
• Diverse swimming experiences: Whether you prefer calm, shallow bays or open-sea adventures, there’s a perfect spot for every swimmer.

Best Wild Swimming Spots in the Isles of Scilly

1. Pelistry Bay, St. Mary’s

Best for: Tranquil swimming in a sheltered bay

• Located on the eastern side of St. Mary’s, Pelistry Bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sands.
• Swim across to Toll’s Island at low tide for a mini-adventure.
• The bay is relatively shallow, making it ideal for beginners and families.
• Carn Vean Tearooms nearby.

Tip: Visit during early morning or sunset for the calmest waters and most peaceful experience.

Peninnis Head, St Mary’s

Best for: A truly wild swim off a wild and rugged promonotory.

• Located at the island’s southern tip Peninnis Head is known for its other-worldly-shaped granite tors
• Just a 15 minute walk from Hugh Town, with a short, easy scramble down to the ledge to enter the water.

Tip: Watch the forescast, location can frequently pick up swell and chop as it faces St Mary’s Sound and the wider Atlantic.

3. Rushy Bay, Bryher

Best for: Sheltered swimming with stunning views

• One of the most picturesque swimming locations in Scilly, Rushy Bay offers warm, shallow waters with spectacular views across to Samson Island.
• Low currents make this an ideal spot for a relaxing swim or a longer-distance challenge.
• The golden sand and secluded feel make it a top spot for sunbathing post-swim.

Tip: Bring a snorkel—marine life is often visible just off the shore!

4. Shipmans Head, Bryher

Best for: an exhilarating dip

• The gully between Shipman Head and the north tip of Bryher makes for an exhilarating dip in the right conditions.
• At low, slack tide and low swell, the water is almost stationary and perfect for jumping into its ink-black depths or explore the kelp forests at its eastern end.

Tip: Follow the coast path north, and access is via a short scramble, down to the rock platforms at the very north tip of Bryher

5. Ravensporth ,Tresco

Best for: post swim treat

• Located on the north east coast of Tresco this is a favourite beach for dipping.
• Other great wild swim spots in Tresco include Pentle Bay on the west coast, and Appletree Bay on the south west coast.

Tip: post-swim pizza from the excellent Ruin Beach Cafe

6. Bar Point, Samson

Best for: the ultimate castaway swim

• On the north east coast of uninhabited Samson this tropical-looking beach can only be reached by boat.
• Shallow waters with gin-clear visibility.

Tip: arrive early before the summer ‘boaters’ get there, and be prepared to walk the plank

7. Porthcressa Beach, St. Mary’s

Best for: ‘Urban’ wild swimming with easy access

• Located in Hugh Town, Porthcressa Beach offers a gentle swimming experience with the convenience of nearby cafes and amenities.
• A great option for those wanting a refreshing dip after exploring St. Mary’s.
• Crystal-clear waters and soft sands make this a great beginner-friendly spot.

Tip: Swim early in the morning to enjoy the calmest water conditions

8. Lawrence’s Bay, St. Martin’s

Best for: Swimming in over sea grass beds

• Located on St Martin’s south coast, and a lovely hidden gem with underlying white sands and shallow water has some of the clearest waters in the Isles of Scilly. The visibility is amazing
• Known for its expansive rock pools and untouched nature, this spot feels truly wild.
• It’s also a great location for tide-dependent swimming, as many pools warm up naturally in the sun.

Tip: Check the tide times—at high tide, swimming here is at its best!

9. Great Bay, St Martin’s

Best for: Sheltered swimming

• Located on the north side of St Martin’s Great Bay is remote and unspoilt.
• Recently voted the best beach in the UK.
• Explore multiple bays and coves divided by rock outcrops, and a tidal pebbly bar across to White Island, which also has a sheltered swim spot within Porth Morran.

Tip: refuel in The Island Bakery

10. Nornour and Great Ganilly

Best for: swimming with seals

• Located east of St Mary’s the uninhabited Eastern Isles offer a truly wild swim
• You need your own boat, but it’s well worth it to swim in the kelp forests with seals.

Top tip: walk up the hill for incredible views of the archipelago

11. The Bar and The Cove, St Agnes

Best for: snorkelling

• Located between Gugh and St Agnes this spectacular location offers very sheltered swimming and snorkelling at low tide.
• Short walk from the ferry quat and The Turk’s Head.

Tip: Only swim when The Bar is uncovered to avoid dangerous currents.

12. Seal Snorkelling Adventures

For an unforgettable experience, snorkelling with seals around St. Martin’s is a must. This adventure allows you to observe these curious creatures in their natural habitat, offering a unique addition to your wild swimming itinerary. Book with Seal Snorkel Adventures.

 

13. Scilly Swim Challenges

• Inter-island swims in the protected waters between islands are popular in Scilly. Here’s a guide to the inter-island swim distances (some with walks across islands):

Tresco – Bryher – Samson (2.5 km in total)

Tresco – St Helen’s and Foreman’s Islands – Tean (2 km in total)

Tean to St Martin’s

Higher Town, St Martin’s to Bar Point on St Mary’s (3km)

The Scilly Inter-Island Swims are organised by Swimquest.

14. The Scilly 360 race

This is a complete, non-competative, circuit of Tresco (about 10.5 km) in four stages which can be either completed as a solo or team relay. The race is a staged swim, split into 3 legs (Swim 1, 4km; Swim 2, 3.8km; and Swim 3, 2.6km)

The Scilly 360 race is organised by Swimquest.

Local Tips for Wild Swimming in the Isles of Scilly

For the best local knowledge and wild swim trips on Scilly, speak to Adventure Scilly

For outdoor swimming groups in the Isles of Scilly contact or follow  Wild and Scilly Mermaid’s

Scilly Sea Swimmers

Best Time to Go Wild Swimming in the Isles of Scilly

• Spring & Summer (May – September): The best time for warm waters and calm seas, with temperatures reaching 16-17°C.
• Autumn (September – November): Fewer crowds, slightly cooler water but still swimmable with a wetsuit.
• Winter (December – March): Ideal for cold-water swimmers looking for a refreshing, invigorating experience.
• Tide Considerations: Always check tide times before swimming, as some spots can become inaccessible at high tide.

 

Safety Tips for Wild Swimming in the Isles of Scilly

• Check tides and currents before entering the water.
• Swim with a buddy or let someone know your plan.
• Wear a brightly coloured swim cap for visibility.
• Use a tow float if swimming in deeper waters.
• Acclimatise slowly to avoid cold-water shock.
• Be aware of wildlife and boats, particularly in busier areas.

 

What to Bring for a Wild Swim in Scilly

• Wetsuit (optional but useful for longer swims and colder months).
• Neoprene gloves and socks for added warmth.
• Dry robe or warm layers for after your swim.
• Waterproof bag for essentials.
• Reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself and the environment.

How to Get to the Isles of Scilly & Travel Tips

• By ferry: The Scillonian III sails from Penzance to St Mary’s.
• By plane: Direct flights from Exeter, Newquay, and Land’s End to St Mary’s Airport.
• Getting around: The islands are small and best explored on foot, by bike, or by boat.

In a nutshell

The Isles of Scilly offer a wild swimming experience like no other, with breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and secluded beaches. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing dip or an exhilarating open-sea adventure, these islands are a must-visit for any wild swimmer.

Have you been wild swimming in the Isles of Scilly? Share your favourite swim spots in the comments!