Thousands of historical sites, hundreds of miles of coastline and wide-open spaces as far as the eye can see. Physical distancing isn’t a problem in Orkney.
If you’re visiting the islands and want to find your own space on a beach, here are some of our favourite locations that are well worth seeking out.
Aikerness, West Mainland
Image by Colin Keldie
Also known as the Sands of Evie, this beach offers beautiful views out over the islands of Eynhallow and Rousay, and to the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The Broch of Gurness is nearby too, if you want to combine nature and history in a single visit.
Tresness, Sanday
Image by Raymond Besant
Glimps Holm, South Ronaldsay
Image by Colin Keldie
Even getting to this beach is a bit of an adventure. You have to cross two Churchill Barriers before descending the steps to the sand, found in the shadow of another one! You can actually walk between the 2nd and 3rd Barriers here, with the sand snaking along the shore of this uninhabited island.
Warebeth, Stromness
Image by VisitScotland/Iain Sarjeant
A walk to Warebeth is highly recommended if you want to blow away the cobwebs and soak up some stunning Orkney scenery. Take the coastal path from Stromness or head over the hills of Outertown. The Hoy Hills provide the backdrop, and the beach is a fitting reward for your efforts.
Dingieshowe, East Mainland
Image by Premysl Fojtu
One of Orkney’s best beaches, Dingieshowe is part of the thin strip of land that connects the parish of Deerness to Orkney’s mainland. It’s the perfect place to spot seals in the surf and find shelter in the surrounding dunes.
Find these spaces
Double-tap a marker to view an info box.
1 - Aikerness, West Mainland; 2 - Tresness, Sanday; 3 - Glimps Holm, Burray & South Ronaldsay; 4 - Warebeth, West Mainland; 5 - Dingieshowe, East Mainland
Help us help you to enjoy the best of Orkney. View our COVID-19 section for more information on staying safe during your visit, as well as advice on travel, health and things to see and do.
The Promoting Orkney project has been part financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community Orkney LEADER 2014-2020