Hushinish Beach on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides can only be reached by car – but it’s well worth the journey to the ‘Caribbean of the North’
Standing on the pristine white sands of Hushinish Beach, you’d be excused for believing you’ve got a row of palm trees stretching behind you on a sweltering Caribbean shoreline.
This breathtaking beach in the Outer Hebrides sits on the western edge of the Isle of Harris.
The gorgeous soft sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters create a perfect swimming destination all year round, though visitors are cautioned that the water can be absolutely freezing. The beach is reachable by car via a 30-minute journey along a fairly winding route.
Sawdays holidays notes that the pristine waters mean if you “squint a little and you could be in the Caribbean”.
It described this Isle of Harris stretch as among Scotland’s “truly spectacular” coastal gems, reports the Express.
A campervan site sits adjacent to the beach, meaning some larger motors use the access road, reports Scotland Less Explored. Free parking is also available right at the beach.
Complimentary loos and heated water showers are provided at the beach for those braving a visit during chillier months or finding themselves in urgent need after an extended journey.
Inside the Huisinis Gateway building, which operates from 7am to 7.30pm daily, visitors can discover details about native wildlife. It’s also perfect for enjoying a packed lunch on dreary days, as the glass panels offer a glimpse of the stunning shoreline.
Taking a dip at the beach is entirely feasible. Unlike many charming little bays on the island that are exposed to the open sea, resulting in large waves and powerful currents, this bay is shielded by a headland, allowing for easy swimming.
If you’re after a stunning view of the beach, make a stop just before reaching the car park on the B887. From here, you can capture a breathtaking panoramic shot of the beach and the adjacent peninsula.
Simply park your vehicle and stroll back a few hundred metres in the direction you came from to snap a memento that will surely incite envy among your friends and family.
Should the gorgeous views start to lose their charm, there’s a bit of history to delve into nearby. The Bunavoneader Whaling Station, established in the early 1900s by a Norwegian firm, was intermittently operational for nearly six decades.
Today, one of the original three red brick chimneys still stands, along with colossal concrete platforms where ships once docked with their gargantuan catches.
Additionally, the North Harris Eagle Observatory is within cycling distance from the beach, or less than half an hour’s walk.
The observatory is a modest wooden building equipped with large glass windows, providing a quiet spot to observe wildlife – keep your eyes peeled for the majestic golden eagle.