Traigh Mheilein: A Remote Hebridean Beach Escape on the Isle of Harris
Discover the secluded turquoise waters and white sands of Traigh Mheilein, a tranquil Hebridean beach framed by rugged cliffs and panoramic island views.
Traigh Mheilein is a stunning, secluded beach located on the northwestern coast of the Isle of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. Known for its striking turquoise waters and white sands, this beach offers a Caribbean-like atmosphere amid rugged Scottish scenery. Accessible by a scenic hike from Huisinis, it provides breathtaking views of the uninhabited Isle of Scarp and surrounding mountains, making it a tranquil and less-visited gem for nature lovers and hikers.
A brief summary to Traigh Mheilein
- 2W77+P3, Isle of Harris, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for the 40-minute hike from Huisinis car park to the beach, as the path includes steep and rocky sections.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are no food or drink facilities nearby.
- Check weather conditions before your visit; the path can be slippery and exposed during wet or windy weather.
- Consider staying in Tarbert for convenient access to the beach and a variety of accommodation options.
- Respect the natural environment by following Leave-No-Trace principles to help preserve this pristine beach.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
From Tarbert village, drive approximately 40 minutes west along the A858 and B887 roads to reach the Huisinis car park, the starting point for the hike to Traigh Mheilein. The roads are narrow and winding with limited passing places; drive cautiously. Parking is limited and free at Huisinis.
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Ferry and Car
Take a ferry to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris from the mainland or nearby islands. From Tarbert, rent a car or use local taxi services to reach Huisinis car park in about 40 minutes. Ferry prices vary; car rental costs start around £40 per day.
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Hiking
From Huisinis car park, follow the marked 2 km hiking trail to Traigh Mheilein. The path involves moderate ascent and some rocky terrain, taking around 40 minutes. Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness; not recommended for those with mobility issues.
Traigh Mheilein location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Traigh Mheilein
Scenic Isolation in the Outer Hebrides
Traigh Mheilein is nestled on the northwestern tip of the Isle of Harris, part of the remote and rugged Outer Hebrides archipelago off Scotland’s west coast. This beach is renowned for its dazzling white sands and unusually turquoise waters, which evoke a tropical feel uncommon in northern Scotland. The beach faces the narrow Sound of Scarp, with the uninhabited Isle of Scarp providing a dramatic green mountainous backdrop across the water. Its location away from major settlements means it remains peaceful and often nearly deserted, offering visitors a rare sense of solitude.A Challenging and Rewarding Journey
Reaching Traigh Mheilein requires a moderately challenging hike, typically starting from the Huisinis car park. The walk spans about 2 kilometers one way, with an ascent of roughly 96 meters, taking around 40 minutes to complete. The route traverses moorland and cliff tops, including a cairn viewpoint with sweeping ocean vistas before descending to the beach. The path is well-defined but involves some steep sections and stone steps, rewarding hikers with spectacular views and a sense of accomplishment upon arrival.Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The beach itself is a pristine stretch of sand backed by dunes and moorland, where visitors can enjoy the sound of larks and the sight of seabirds. The waters are shallow and clear, though swimming is not generally recommended due to unpredictable currents in the channel between Harris and Scarp. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, including occasional sightings of jellyfish near the Huisinis jetty. The natural environment here is largely untouched, making it a haven for those seeking unspoiled landscapes and quiet contemplation.Nearby Villages and Accommodation Options
While Traigh Mheilein is remote, the nearby village of Tarbert on the Isle of Harris offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy cottages and B&Bs to hotels with century-old heritage. Tarbert serves as a convenient base for exploring the island, including Traigh Mheilein and other beaches like Luskentyre. The drive from Tarbert to Huisinis, where the hike begins, takes about 40 minutes along scenic roads that pass waterfalls, mountains, and quaint villages. This blend of remote wilderness and accessible hospitality enriches the visitor experience.Unique Coastal Character and Visitor Experience
Unlike many Scottish beaches, Traigh Mheilein’s outwardly tropical character—highlighted by its turquoise waters and white sands—sets it apart as a unique coastal destination. It is often overshadowed by nearby beaches, which means visitors can enjoy it with minimal crowds. The combination of dramatic cliffs, sweeping views, and the gentle sound of waves creates a serene atmosphere perfect for picnics, photography, and quiet reflection. Its rugged approach and remote setting make it especially appealing to adventurous travelers and those seeking a genuine connection with nature.Preserving a Hebridean Gem
Traigh Mheilein remains a protected and largely untouched natural site within the Outer Hebrides. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile environment by adhering to Leave-No-Trace principles. The beach’s remoteness and limited facilities underscore the importance of preparation and responsible tourism to maintain its pristine condition for future generations. This commitment to sustainability helps preserve the unique beauty and tranquility that define Traigh Mheilein.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit Outer Hebrides
10.6 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
19.2 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Harris House
21.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Temple Harris
23.9 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Sound of Harris
29.5 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
31.6 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
historic scotland
47.0 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
55.9 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Rubha Hunish
56.1 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Ardmore Arches
58.0 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Old Ruins
60.6 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
67.3 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and historic charm of Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Neist Point Lighthouse
68.1 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
69.5 km
Explore the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens on the Isle of Skye, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
Dun Osdale
71.8 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Huisinis Gateway
2.1 km
Gateway to the wild machair and serene beaches of Huisinis, offering essential facilities and sustainable visitor management on the Isle of Harris.
Cravadale
2.2 km
Discover Cravadale’s wild coastal beauty and serene beaches on the Isle of Harris, a tranquil haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate
7.4 km
A grand 19th-century baronial castle on the Isle of Harris, offering exclusive-use luxury, world-class fishing, stalking, and breathtaking Hebridean scenery.
Power Station Walk
8.4 km
Explore the scenic 6.6 km Power Station Walk on the Isle of Harris, blending coastal beauty with historic maritime heritage.
Muladal Hill
8.5 km
A rugged 454m summit on North Harris offering wild landscapes, panoramic views, and a challenging hiking adventure.
Ulabhal Hill
9.3 km
Discover the rugged beauty and panoramic vistas atop Ulabhal Hill, a scenic gem on the Isle of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.
North Harris Eagle Observatory
11.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and rare golden eagle sightings in the wild heart of North Harris on the Isle of Harris.
Gasker Lighthouse
12.4 km
Discover the remote Gasker Lighthouse, a solitary beacon amidst the wild beauty and rich wildlife of the Outer Hebrides’ rugged coast.
Harris
12.8 km
Discover Harris, a wild Scottish island of stunning beaches, Gaelic culture, and timeless natural beauty in the Outer Hebrides.
North Harris Eagle Observatory Car Park
13.0 km
Starting point for a scenic walk to a timber-framed hide offering iconic golden eagle views in the wild North Harris hills.
Mangersta Sea Stacks
15.2 km
Discover the wild, towering Mangersta Sea Stacks on Lewis, where nature’s raw power sculpts a breathtaking coastal masterpiece.
Traigh Rosamol
15.6 km
Discover the tranquil white sands and sweeping coastal views of Traigh Rosamol, a serene beach gem on Scotland’s Isle of Harris.
Luskentyre Beach
15.9 km
A vast, white-sand beach with turquoise waters and dramatic views across the Sound of Taransay on the Isle of Harris.
Loch Langhabat Viewpoint
16.1 km
Experience the rugged beauty and tranquil vistas of Loch Langhabat from this serene Isle of Harris viewpoint.
Luskentyre Harris Tweed Co
16.4 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed handwoven in the remote village of Luskentyre, where tradition and craftsmanship meet rugged island beauty.
Essential places to dine
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
8.2 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
Talla na Mara Restaurant
18.3 km
Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.
Uig Sands Restaurant
20.3 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Òran na Mara
20.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Hotel
20.9 km
Experience authentic island charm, warm hospitality, and local flavors at Harris Hotel, your cozy retreat in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Scarista House
21.2 km
Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.
Pierhouse Cafe And Restaurant
21.4 km
A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.
Hotel Hebrides
21.4 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.
Flavour
21.8 km
Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
Bays Of Harris Community Centre
24.9 km
A welcoming cultural hub on the Isle of Harris offering hearty local fare, lively ceilidhs, and vibrant community spirit in a scenic coastal setting.
Lingay House
27.5 km
Experience warm hospitality, modern comfort, and stunning loch views at Lingay House, a charming B&B and restaurant on the Isle of Harris.
Butty Bus
27.7 km
A cozy, no-nonsense café at Leverburgh ferry terminal serving fresh local fish and chips with charming harbor views.
North Harbour Bistro
27.8 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
The Anchorage Restaurant, Cafe & Bar
27.8 km
Fresh seafood and local flavors served with stunning harbour views in a relaxed, welcoming setting on Leverburgh’s pier.
Loch Erisort Hotel
28.9 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Luskentyre Beach Hut
16.5 km
A charming trust-based gift hut offering local crafts and refreshments with stunning views over Luskentyre Bay on the Isle of Harris.
Woven & Wild
20.2 km
Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris Shop
21.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Blamire at Harris
21.3 km
A split-level gift shop in Tarbert showcasing handcrafted ceramics, original oil paintings, and authentic souvenirs from the Isle of Harris.
Akrams General Store
21.3 km
Akrams General Store offers authentic local goods and essentials in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris, blending convenience with Hebridean charm.
John Morrisons Newsagents
21.3 km
A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.
Tarbert charity shop
21.4 km
Explore Tarbert Charity Shop, a unique thrift store on the Isle of Harris, where every purchase supports local charities and sustainability.
Essence of Harris
21.4 km
Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
The Wee Croft Shop - Isle of Harris
21.9 km
Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.
Taobh Tuath Tweeds
24.7 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed weaving and island heritage at Taobh Tuath Tweeds in Northton, Isle of Harris.
David's sausages
25.8 km
Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
26.1 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
The Hebridean Mustard Company
26.5 km
Discover artisanal mustards crafted with passion and natural ingredients at the iconic Hebridean Mustard hut in Leverburgh, Isle of Harris.
Harris with Love
27.1 km
Discover authentic Hebridean artistry and handcrafted treasures at Harris with Love, a charming boutique in Scalpay on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Community Shop (An Clachan)
27.5 km
A well-stocked, community-owned shop serving as the essential retail and social hub in Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
17.3 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
27.0 km
A cozy pub and café in Leverburgh offering local ales, hearty meals, and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Harris.
Isle of Harris Brewery
27.8 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
THE HARBOUR BAR
46.3 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
The Criterion Bar
46.3 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
46.4 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
46.4 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Artizan
46.5 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
46.7 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Westford Inn
52.7 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
The Rip
60.5 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
The Stein Inn
63.4 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The Ferry Inn
64.0 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Cross Inn
69.4 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Old Barn Bar
69.4 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scaladale Centre
19.3 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Number 5
25.9 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
84.7 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
