The best beaches for Watersports in Argyll & the Isles

Golden sands, rugged backdrops and crystal-clear waters - some of Scotland’s most incredible beaches can be found along the coastline of Argyll. They’re brilliant locations for all sorts of watersports, from swimming to surfing. Get active on these Argyll beaches! 

Do you need the right equipment? Head to McConks for your sustainable watersports equipment.

Surfing

Westport Beach stretches for six miles along the west coast of the Kinyre Peninsula. Atlantic breakers often pounded this vast expanse of sand, making it one of Argyll’s top surf spots. The beach has its own surf cam so you can check the waves before you arrive! On some days, when the waves are wild, this beach is for experienced surfers only. But beginners can have a go too, thanks to Pete’s Surf School, which operates from the car park at Westport Beach during the summer. Pete provides lessons for all levels as well as surf gear hire. Need to warm up after a surf? Head to Glenbarr Stores & Café, a short drive up the road, for locally roasted coffee and delicious cakes.

Wind surfing

The Hebridean island of Tiree is also a surfers’ paradise and a mecca for windsurfers. The island has some fabulous windsurfing beaches, and the finest must be Gott Bay on the island's east coast. It’s a hot spot for windsurfers and kite surfers with golden sands, a shallow gradient, and calm waters. If you’re a beginner, you can learn the ropes at Loch Bhaspol, a large, shallow, sandy-bottomed loch.

Surf kayaking

Argyll’s coastline is dotted with brilliant surf kayaking beaches. Surf kayaking is pretty unbeatable for an exhilarating watersport experience, especially on Argyll’s wild and beautiful coastline. Try Machir Bay on the isolated north-west coast of the island of Islay. It’s fairly easily accessible, with parking nearby. You must be fairly experienced to surf kayak here as the sea has dangerous undercurrents.

Paddle boarding

Paddle boarding is a wonderful way to explore Argyll’s coastline. With sheltered sea lochs, sandy bays and islands, there’s so much to explore on your paddle board. Ganavan Sands near Oban is brilliant for paddle boarding. It’s a lovely, sheltered sandy beach overlooking Kerrera and Mull. There’s a car park next to the beach, so it's easy to access. Enjoy a paddle around the bay or head around the coast for views of the magnificent Dunollie Castle and Oban. Then, when you’re done, head back into Oban for a fantastic selection of cafés, seafood restaurants and shops.

Swimming

If you fancy taking the plunge and enjoying a swim in the sea, there are so many great swimming beaches to choose from in Argyll. Ostel Bay on Argyll’s Secret Coast is wonderful for an invigorating dip! It’s a twenty-minute walk from the road, but well worth the effort. This lovely crescent of soft sand looks out across to Arran. The water is protected and shallow for a fair distance and can become quite warm on a summer’s day. Small pools often form on the beach at low tide, which are perfect lagoons for children to paddle in. Another lovely swimming beach is Calgary Bay on the island of Mull.