Find Beach Resorts in Dounby

The best area to stay in Dounby for beaches is the West Mainland coastline, particularly around the areas of Birsay and Sandwick.This part of Orkney is known for its rugged beauty and accessible stretches of sand. Places like the Bay of Skaill, famous for Skara Brae, offer wide sandy beaches, while the smaller bays around Birsay provide a more secluded beach experience. The coastal roads here are generally quiet, making it easy to drive between different beach spots.Couples looking for a peaceful getaway will find this area particularly appealing. You can enjoy long walks along the shore, explore ancient sites right by the sea, and experience stunning sunsets over the Atlantic. The natural beauty and tranquillity are superb for a relaxed trip.Families also find this area excellent for a beach holiday. The beaches often have rock pools for children to explore at low tide, and the gentle slopes of many bays are suitable for paddling.

The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Dounby is during the summer months, particularly July and August. You'll experience the warmest weather then, with average temperatures hovering around 15-18°C, which is ideal for enjoying coastal walks and the stunning scenery around the Orkney Isles.During these months, the extended daylight hours mean you have plenty of time to explore Dounby's beautiful beaches, whether it's looking for shells or simply taking in the fresh sea air. It's also a great time for outdoor activities like birdwatching or visiting ancient sites such as the Ring of Brodgar, which are easily accessible. Families often find this period particularly appealing for a relaxed beach holiday.As another option, May presents a wonderful alternative. While the temperatures are a little cooler, typically between 10-12°C, the spring blooms are beautiful, and you may find better value and more availability at Dounby's charming beach hotels.

One Key™ —Expedia's free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Dounby beach hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. But, if you're feeling spontaneous, check out the last-minute deals.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

The best beach activities to do in Dounby involve exploring the stunning coastal scenery and enjoying the natural environment.For those who enjoy walking, the coastline around Dounby offers numerous opportunities for scenic strolls. You can explore a variety of beaches, from sandy stretches great for a leisurely walk to more rugged, rocky areas ideal for discovering rock pools. These walks often lead to secluded coves and offer excellent views of the North Sea. Birdwatching is also a popular activity here, with many coastal birds frequenting the cliffs and shores.Couples looking for a peaceful escape will find the beaches around Dounby particularly appealing. The remote nature of many of these spots means you can often find yourselves with a stretch of beach all to yourselves, great for a quiet picnic or simply enjoying the sounds of the waves. The dramatic sunsets over the sea are also a highlight for a romantic evening.Families, especially those with younger children, will appreciate the opportunities for beachcombing and sandcastle building on the more accessible sandy beaches. The shallow waters at some locations are suitable for paddling, and the open spaces provide plenty of room for children to play.