Surfing and Windsurfing in Argyll & the Isles
Scotland's Adventure CoastExperience surfing and body boarding in Argyll and the Inner Hebrides, known as Scotland's Adventure Coast for a reason!
Surfing and body boarding can be a sport that takes some time to master, but there's plenty of places to practice and enjoy it, including great beaches in Kintyre, Islay or Isle of Tiree with the right conditions for exceptional surfing on the Atlantic Coast.
Top tip is to check conditions and plan ahead before you make your trip, by using MagicSeaweed.
Something for everyone
For many kids, a boogie board or body board, is their first experience of surfing and the numerous sandy beaches across the shores of Argyll & the Isles are great places for them to try this out. And of course, to return to time and time again for endless hours of fun.
Westport beach, near Campbeltown is a surfing beach, but is so big there is plenty of space for the kids to boogie board and the more experienced to ride the surf.
Have you tried kayak surfing? You can use a kayak and paddle to ride the waves - it's incredible fun and can also be enjoyed on the west coast of Kintyre and on Islay and Tiree. Other locations across Argyll will also be ideal for the DIY-er, but for anyone looking to hire equipment these are you best places.
Wind surfing is very popular on Tiree. It's home to the Tiree Wave Classic - the world's longest standing professional wind surfing championships each October. Throughout the summer season there are surf lessions available for all abilities. There is an inland lochlan which suits beginners and a choice of beaches, depending on which direction the wind is blowing.
Expert kite surfers love the Argyll coast with West Port Beach in Kintyre being another great place to surf the waves.
Kintyre
The west coast of the Kintyre is one of Argyll’s surfing spots. Huge sandy beaches are often pounded by Atlantic breakers, making it a destination for adventurous surfers. Westport Beach stretches for six miles to Machrihanish. It has its own surfcam so you can check the waves before you arrive!
Tiree
The Hebridean island of Tiree, is called the ‘Hawaii of the north’. Its exposed location and sandy beaches make it a magnet for surfers from around the world. It’s perfectly placed to catch the swell from the North Atlantic, giving year-round, consistent waves. The island’s white sandy beaches face every direction and you’ll find conditions to suit all levels of surfer, from sedate rollers to barreling beach breaks.
Islay
Islay also has a reputation for great waves among the surfing community. Islay picks up lots of swells thanks to its exposed Atlantic location. Laggan Bay and Machir Bay are probably the best surfing beaches. Even when the surf’s up, you’re likely to be the only ones on the line-up. Beautiful Saligo Bay is called ‘Psycho Bay’ by surfers, and as the name suggests, is only for the most experienced and hardcore of surfers.
Be inspired
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3700km of coastline, 23 inhabited islands, major towns and villages are all waiting for you.
