This beautiful beach is one you might have never heard of but it has been called one of the most impressive by visitors. Finding a quiet beach in the height of summer is no easy challenge but Tolsta beach in the Isle of Lewis is one that has been praised even by the likes of National Geographic.
The white sandy beach is popular with surfers, with big swells forming in this exposed stretch of coastline. Islandeering says: “The Isle of Lewis boasts some of the most spectacular beaches in Scotland, with pristine sands and crystal-clear waters.” If you’re looking for a beach that’s off the beaten path and offers incredible scenery, Tolsta could be the place for you.
Tolsta beach is often known as Traigh Mhòr, it stretches over 1.4 miles of fine golden-white sand, backed by low grassy dunes, and faces northeast towards the Scottish mainland.
This expansive beach is popular among surfers due to its powerful ocean swells and offers dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Garry Beach, situated just around a small headland from Traigh Mhòr, features golden sands and blue waters, and is the starting point of the Tolsta Heritage Trail, which extends 10 miles along the coast to Ness.
A notable landmark near Garry Beach is the Bridge to Nowhere, a stone bridge built in 1920 as part of a road from Tolsta to Ness that was never completed.
If you visit Garry Beach in Tolsta, Visit Scotland says it is home to “golden sand and blue waters”.
Visit Scotland adds: “There is something so refreshing about the breeze of the Outer Hebrides, and beaches on Harris and Lewis come close to perfection.
“Tolsta, a crofting village, is not far from Lewis’ main town of Stornoway and this peaceful cove is hidden away from the road, ideal for a picnic stop.
“Add to this the fascinating people and Gaelic culture, amazing archaeological stories and unparalleled vistas that stretch along the Hebridean Way, and no wonder that the Outer Hebrides have been hailed as one of the ‘Best of the World’ destinations for travellers in 2025 by National Geographic.”
If you’re looking to take a break in the UK this year, Tolsta offers a quiet and unspoilt destination to head for where you can enjoy the seaside in peace.