Find Beach Resorts in Isle of Barra

The best area to stay on the Isle of Barra for beaches is the west coast, particularly around the villages of Craigston and Borve.The west coast of Barra is known for its stunning white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, offering a truly picturesque island experience. These beaches are generally less developed than those on the east coast, providing a more natural and untouched feel. You'll find a series of beautiful coves and expansive stretches of sand, often backed by machair – a fertile, shell-sand plain unique to the Outer Hebrides.This area is particularly good for couples looking for a tranquil escape. Imagine long walks on deserted beaches, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, and perhaps watching the sunset over the Atlantic. The quiet nature of these beaches makes them great for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.Families will also find the west coast appealing. The shallow, calm waters at many of these beaches are ideal for children to paddle and play safely.

The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel on the Isle of Barra is during the summer months, particularly July and August. The weather is at its warmest, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 18°C, making it ideal for enjoying the island's stunning beaches and taking refreshing dips in the sea.During this period, the island buzzes with activity, and you'll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor pursuits like kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring the coastal paths. The extended daylight hours mean you can make the most of every day, whether you're relaxing on the sand or visiting historical sites like Kisimul Castle. Families, in particular, will find this a fantastic time to visit, with plenty of space for children to play and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.As another option, May is another excellent choice for a beach hotel stay. While the temperatures are a little cooler, typically between 10°C and 13°C, the island is often bathed in beautiful spring sunshine. You may find better value on accommodation and it can be easier to secure reservations at popular restaurants and for unique island tours.

One Key™ —Expedia's free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Isle Of Barra 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 Isle of Barra offers a delightful array of beach activities, with the most unique being a flight landing right on the sand at Traigh Mhòr.Traigh Mhòr, meaning "Big Beach," is located on the northern side of Barra and is famous for being the world's only commercial airport where scheduled flights use the beach as a runway. When the tide is out, the vast expanse of sand becomes an active airport, complete with a small terminal building nearby. You can check flight times and, outside of these, enjoy the beach like any other, perhaps spotting the cockle shells that are abundant here.For couples and families, this beach offers a truly memorable experience. Watching a plane land or take off from the sand is a remarkable sight, and the wide, open space is great for a leisurely stroll or for children to play. It's an excellent spot for photography too, capturing the unique juxtaposition of aircraft against a natural backdrop.Another excellent beach for activities is Tangasdale Beach, on the west coast of Barra. This beautiful stretch of white sand is easily accessible and known for its clear, turquoise waters.Tangasdale is particularly good for families due to its gentler waves and soft sand, making it ideal for paddling, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing. It's also a popular spot for those interested in watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding, especially on calmer days.