Achmelvich Beach
Achmelvich Beach
4.5
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Achmelvich Beach and nearby attractions
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
12 within 3 miles
Attractions
11 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Beverly S3 contributionsOne of Scotlands hidden treasuresWe travelled the NC500 recently and included a tour of the outer Hebrides also. We cam across numerous beautiful beaches along the way...but this beach by far was the most stunning! Even on a grey day, the water was a stunning blue and a group of people were enjoying a cold but beautiful swim. Single track road and be careful of the many large pot holes in the car park. Stay all day...you won't want to leave...Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 24, 2023
- Blueprints of BritainBury St. Edmunds, United Kingdom44 contributionsOne of the best beaches you can find in Scotland!This is an incredible beach that you must visit. It's one of the best beaches in the UK. It looks stunning during sunny days and is a perfect spot for paddleboarding or enjoying water activities. There is so much to do and see that even when it's busy, you can find a quiet spot on the cliffs where you can relax. Paid parking is available next to the beach. Without a doubt, this beach is a must-visit spot in Scotland, a total unspoil natural beauty.Visited July 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten April 28, 2024
- Rambling_GiantGlasgow, United Kingdom880 contributionsWhite Sand, Clear Water …..Genuinely didn’t believe that beaches like this existed in Scotland. I’ve seen photos and heard rumblings but to see it firsthand was just amazing! For me, this was the best beach we seen during our NC500 adventure. Clean, white sand held in by crystal blue water. It could easily have been on a Caribbean island (the weather made this even more apparent). Its close proximity to the campsite was an added bonus - no more than a two minute walk. My wife and I discussed what we would’ve changed about our trip - we both agreed that we wish we’d had an extra day here. The kids absolutely loved the two hours we spent on the beach. Easily tops the list of things to do on the route! Be careful on the road from Lochinver if in a motorhome (quite narrow with drops).Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 1, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
491 reviews
Excellent
404
Very good
59
Average
14
Poor
10
Terrible
4
Sharon C
Bathgate, UK42 contributions
Jun 2021
The beach is STUNNING!
However the campsite definitely lets it down.....
The facilities weren't very clean and could do with an upgrade. The showers are absolutely tiny! Barely any room to move. They can only provide 6amp to electric pitches. There is a small shop with essentials on site and a chip shop which opens some evenings too. We ordered two fish suppers which were good value for a very large portion. Hopefully the facilities get upgraded because it is an incredible location.
However the campsite definitely lets it down.....
The facilities weren't very clean and could do with an upgrade. The showers are absolutely tiny! Barely any room to move. They can only provide 6amp to electric pitches. There is a small shop with essentials on site and a chip shop which opens some evenings too. We ordered two fish suppers which were good value for a very large portion. Hopefully the facilities get upgraded because it is an incredible location.
Written July 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anne D
Welwyn Garden City, UK127 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
Im only rating this as poor for the campsite. The beach itself is pretty.
I didn’t have any issues with the staff, she was friendly enough to us. What i did have problems with were the facilities. I would have rated these poor before covid but now even worse. The shower was claustaphobic and i didn’t want to touch anything making it worse. My partner used the mens showers and said there was mould all over the ceiling. The pot wash area had 2 sponges on the side which were black with dirt, no idea how long they had been left festering next to the taps. Everything in the facilities seemed dated and un kept. This was also the only site we had to pay £5 per key deposit.
We did eat at the chip shop in the evening which was fine.
Needless to say we didnt hang around here once we woke up in morning.
It’s interesting i can’t find the actual site itself on here to review….
I didn’t have any issues with the staff, she was friendly enough to us. What i did have problems with were the facilities. I would have rated these poor before covid but now even worse. The shower was claustaphobic and i didn’t want to touch anything making it worse. My partner used the mens showers and said there was mould all over the ceiling. The pot wash area had 2 sponges on the side which were black with dirt, no idea how long they had been left festering next to the taps. Everything in the facilities seemed dated and un kept. This was also the only site we had to pay £5 per key deposit.
We did eat at the chip shop in the evening which was fine.
Needless to say we didnt hang around here once we woke up in morning.
It’s interesting i can’t find the actual site itself on here to review….
Written September 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David A
17 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
The beach is fantastic and the location of the campsite is great. However, from the moment you check in the staff are very abrupt and almost snap at you asking if you have dogs with you. The hot water in the dishwashing area didn’t work, nor did the cold with no other arrangements in place so we ended up having to fill a bucket up from the bathrooms which there are signs telling you not to do your dishes in the bathrooms. Burst water pipe outside which was pouring for hours before anything was done about it. All signs on the site make you feel like your being told off “do not do this” do not do that” absolutely no” etc etc electric showers were great but the cubicles they were in were tiny. Hermits castle was more welcoming 😂
Written September 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ashcla
55 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
The beach itself is the most perfect beach you will set eyes on in Scotland.
However, returned today (last visit was august) there is now paid parking, which I wouldn't have minded, but they have also taken away the public toilet, as someone with Chrons disease, this was extremely distressing as I was desperate, I went to the shop to ask if there was a toilet I was able to use, the woman in the shop was most unhelpful and told me if I had an issue to complain to the council as they took them away, which I will be doing. Not being able to use a toilet in such a popular location was extremely off putting for me.
However, returned today (last visit was august) there is now paid parking, which I wouldn't have minded, but they have also taken away the public toilet, as someone with Chrons disease, this was extremely distressing as I was desperate, I went to the shop to ask if there was a toilet I was able to use, the woman in the shop was most unhelpful and told me if I had an issue to complain to the council as they took them away, which I will be doing. Not being able to use a toilet in such a popular location was extremely off putting for me.
Written June 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Kiwi N
1 contribution
Jul 2020
I go to achmelvich every year - but only when it has average weather (grey) because when it's hot all the sunbathers and beach campers come in and the place is really busy. The beach campers are disrespectful, leaving campfires and rubbish on the beach. Once there was a beach camper that left behind human poo on the beach and a child stepped in it! Also, when its hot there are cars parked on the machar (the grass next to the beach) right next to signs saying 'do not park on the macha' and 'the machar is a sight of siecentific intrest, do not drive on it'. Achmelvich is a beutiful beach and I would really recommend to go there, BUT BE RESPECTFUL.
Written August 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicola C
Glasgow, UK132 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
This site was a dream. The beach was like something from the Caribbean. Small campsite but very busy. Pick your pitch when you get here. Weather was amazing and we managed to enjoy the day on the beach then a gorgeous sunset at night. Yes, maybe the shower block could do with an upgrade but don’t let that put you off. We will be back next year for longer than 1 night. Perfect stop on the NC500.
Written July 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J.d
London, UK26 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
A brief glance over the fence at the beach it looked amazing but shouted at and told to go to the carpark (for £2 /hr). Also shouted at to put dog in vehicle (dog was on lead) so left and didn't explore further. Shame as it looked amazing but seems to have been monetised to within an inch of its space (which is understandable post nc 500 surge of visitors I guess..). Owner / employee maybe not enjoying life as a tourist destination judging by our interaction - Im sure it's an amazing place if you're a fully paid up visitor.
Written April 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Blueprints of Britain
Bury St. Edmunds, UK44 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
This is an incredible beach that you must visit. It's one of the best beaches in the UK. It looks stunning during sunny days and is a perfect spot for paddleboarding or enjoying water activities. There is so much to do and see that even when it's busy, you can find a quiet spot on the cliffs where you can relax. Paid parking is available next to the beach. Without a doubt, this beach is a must-visit spot in Scotland, a total unspoil natural beauty.
Written April 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Melsy1
Ipswich, UK4,316 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
Wow what a stunning beach. Beautiful clear water and almost white sand.
The road here is challenging. Lots of hidden bends and narrow with not a lot of passing places so do drive carefully.
Plenty of car park space. Great views if you walk to the right of the car park up along the cliffs. We saw an inquisitive seal while there who seemed just as interested in us as we were with it.
We took a walk along the beach and through the fields of sheep to the left as you look at the water. Beware there's lots of sheep poo (goes without saying but don't wear your best shoes or flip flops) the views here are also stunning and if you keep walking you'll find the little Hermits castle which is an odd little structure made out of concrete. Certainly the smallest castle I've ever seen.
We spent an hour here admiring the scenery, seals and taking a walk and recommend taking a visit.
The beach looks great for swimming, whilst we didn't venture in others did.
Written October 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brian T
Dalton-on-Tees, UK3 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
Achmelvin in May. We stayed at the end of May 2021 just after the lifting of lockdown (our 5th visit) Maysie and Durrant could not be more helpful. Vans are clean and comfortable. Location, adjacent to the magnificent Achmelvic beach, is outstanding. We travel over 400 miles, but it's worth it.
Written June 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
August 2023: Are dogs currently allowed on Achmelvich beach? Thanks in advance
Written August 20, 2023
Going at the beginning of May...what will it be like for midges on the campsite/ beach?
Written April 30, 2021
Can dogs go on this beach in 2 weeks time
Written September 15, 2020
There were a few dogs on and behind the beach during our visit but there were "no dogs" signs, which I assumed related to the caravan and camping sites only. Dogs would have a blast here.
Written September 16, 2020
Looking to go here in July 2018 as part of the NC500. The plan is to take our two dogs too, however I noticed the last post regarding whither this was possible this was last year. Has anything changed? Am I right in thinking if they are under control it will be fine?
Written June 13, 2018
As well as many sheep on the area, the beach and it's surrounds are very popular with young children.
Written June 13, 2018
When does the dog ban come into force at Achmelvich. They annoyingly keep quoting 'during the peak Summer holiday period' - when is that exactly?
Written May 30, 2017
I always use the beach guide online to check where we can take our Labrador. We took him on the beach at Achmelvich in March (and it is just stunningly beautiful) but he was not allowed on the land belonging to the Caravan park then. However having just checked I see there is a total ban on dogs there now - the only beach where a total dog ban is in force in the area. Very sad for doggies but there are plenty of other dog friendly beaches in that area to enjoy.
Written May 30, 2017
Is there a clearly defined parking area when visiting this beach if passing through and not staying at the caravan site?
Written April 2, 2017
yes it is a small area between a small kirk and a private farm
Written April 2, 2017
Hi I am looking for a static caravan site that allows dogs does anyone know of any that are near the beaches preferably?
Thanks
Danielle
Written April 4, 2016
Hello, I am sorry Danielle, we had our dog but stayed at the youth hostel so I would not be the best person to advise you for the static caravan.
Have a great evening.
Written April 4, 2016
Has anyone stayed in the static caravans at Hillhead, Achmelvich?
Written February 14, 2016
Been holidaying here for 5years Love it and the couple who own the site are lovely and so helpful x
Written August 17, 2018
I've been saying that about these bloody jet ski ski-ers for 10 years. I shouted at one once !!! If you want a thrill ride go to Blackpool for your holidays!!!
Written August 4, 2015
Showing results 1-10 of 10
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing