Reef Beach (Traigh na Beirghe) on the Isle of Lewis
A breathtaking long white sandy beach with vibrant wildflower machair and tranquil turquoise waters on the Isle of Lewis.
Reef Beach, also known as Traigh na Beirghe, is a stunningly long white sandy beach on the western side of the Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides. Renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant machair wildflower meadows in summer, it offers spectacular views across Loch Roag and a peaceful natural setting. The beach is adjacent to a community-run campsite nestled among dunes, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
A brief summary to Reef Beach
- Isle of Lewis, Kneep, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in summer to experience the machair wildflowers in full bloom, creating a spectacular natural display.
- Use the three marked pathways to access the beach to protect the fragile dune ecosystem.
- Consider staying at the community-run Kneep Campsite for an immersive nature experience.
- Bring a camera for stunning panoramic views from nearby hills overlooking the beach and Loch Roag.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Stornoway to the village of Uig, which runs approximately every 2 hours and takes about 45 to 60 minutes. From Uig, a taxi or local shuttle can cover the remaining 6 km to Reef Beach. Bus fares range from £5 to £8 one way.
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Car
Driving from Stornoway, the journey to Reef Beach takes around 30 minutes via the A857 and B8011 roads. Parking is available near the campsite with ample spaces. Note that road conditions can be narrow and winding, so cautious driving is advised.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Stornoway and Uig, with travel times of approximately 30 and 10 minutes respectively. Expect fares between £20 and £40 depending on distance and time of day.
Reef Beach location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Reef Beach
A Coastal Gem of the Outer Hebrides
Reef Beach, locally called Traigh na Beirghe, stretches along the western shore of the Isle of Lewis, presenting one of the island's longest and most beautiful sandy beaches. Its vast expanse of fine white sand meets clear turquoise waters, creating a striking contrast against the purple-tinged hillsides that frame the coastline. The beach looks out over the islands of Loch Roag, offering panoramic seascapes that change with the light and tides.Machair Meadows and Natural Richness
Behind the beach lies a unique machair habitat, a rare coastal grassland known for its rich biodiversity. During summer months, this area bursts into color with a profusion of wildflowers and orchids, creating a living tapestry that is one of the rarest in Europe. This delicate ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife and adds to the serene and unspoiled atmosphere of the location.Community and Camping Experience
Nestled among the dunes adjacent to Reef Beach is the Kneep Campsite, a community-run site that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Outer Hebrides. The campsite provides a range of pitches, including some with electric hook-ups, alongside essential facilities such as showers, toilets, and recycling points. The community ethos encourages respect for the environment, with clear paths to protect the dunes and guidelines for waste and fire safety.Visitor Activities and Atmosphere
Visitors to Reef Beach can enjoy long walks along the shoreline, shell collecting, and exploring the varied coastal landscape. The quiet and expansive setting makes it ideal for relaxation, photography, and nature observation. Nearby, local amenities such as a café and occasional cultural events at the community hall enrich the visitor experience without disturbing the peaceful ambience.Seasonal Highlights and Wildlife
Summer brings the full bloom of the machair and warmer weather, perfect for wildflower spotting and enjoying the beach in its full glory. The beach and surrounding dunes are also habitats for various bird species and marine life, making it a rewarding destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The community-run sauna and local food trailers add comfort and charm during the warmer months.Preserving a Pristine Environment
Reef Beach exemplifies sustainable tourism with its community management and emphasis on environmental care. Visitors are encouraged to follow leave-no-trace principles, use designated paths, and participate in recycling efforts. This approach helps maintain the beach’s pristine condition and supports the local community’s efforts to protect this exceptional natural area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
historic scotland
24.6 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Visit Outer Hebrides
33.8 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Harris House
36.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
41.2 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
43.7 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.
The temple
46.5 km
A contemplative sanctuary amid the wild beauty of Scotland's Outer Hebrides, where modern architecture meets ancient landscape.
Temple Harris
47.1 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.
Hebrides People Visitor Centre
47.7 km
Explore the rich heritage of the Isle of Harris at the Hebrides People Visitor Centre, where history, genealogy, and local literature come alive.
Borrisdale Tweed
49.8 km
Discover exquisite craftsmanship at Borrisdale Tweed, a unique homewares shop offering authentic Scottish tweed products in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
51.5 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
St Clement's Church : Rodel
53.0 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of St Clement's Church on the Isle of Harris, a must-visit tourist attraction in Scotland.
Sound of Harris
53.1 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Rubha Hunish
67.2 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.
Old Ruins
71.2 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
73.7 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mhiabhig Jetty
2.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich maritime heritage at Mhiabhig Jetty, a stunning coastal attraction on the Isle of Lewis.
Uig Community Shop
4.9 km
A community-owned hub offering local produce and essentials, embodying the spirit and resilience of the Isle of Lewis.
Uig Museum
4.9 km
Explore Uig Museum’s rich tapestry of Viking heritage, traditional island life, and poignant local history on the Isle of Lewis.
Uig Lodge viewpoint
5.6 km
Breathtaking coastal panoramas and rich Hebridean heritage converge at Uig Lodge Viewpoint on the Isle of Lewis.
Uig Bay, Isle Of Lewis
6.2 km
Discover Uig Bay’s tranquil sandy shores and dramatic sea vistas on the wild west coast of the Isle of Lewis.
Sgeir nan Gall (Skerry of the Foreigners)
9.7 km
Discover the rugged beauty and rich maritime lore of Sgeir nan Gall, a remote skerry off the Isle of Lewis in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.
Calanais Standing Stones
11.4 km
Explore the ancient Calanais Standing Stones, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic monument on the Isle of Lewis, rich in mystery and cosmic significance.
Mcindoe stones
11.8 km
Explore the ancient Mcindoe Stones on the Isle of Lewis, a mystical site rich in history and folklore amidst breathtaking scenery.
Callanish Alpacas
12.0 km
Experience the charm of Hebridean alpacas and community spirit at this unique charity farm near the iconic Callanish Stones.
Garenin Village Viewpoint
12.3 km
Experience the rugged beauty and rich heritage of Garenin’s blackhouse village with stunning Atlantic views on the Isle of Lewis.
Mangersta Sea Stacks
12.4 km
Discover the wild, towering Mangersta Sea Stacks on Lewis, where nature’s raw power sculpts a breathtaking coastal masterpiece.
Dalbeg Beach
15.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Dalbeg Beach, a secluded sandy cove framed by cliffs and sea stacks on the Isle of Lewis.
Isle of Lewis
16.3 km
Discover the wild beauty, ancient heritage, and vibrant Gaelic culture of Scotland’s largest Outer Hebrides island, the Isle of Lewis.
Norse Mill and Kiln
17.2 km
Explore the restored Norse Mill and Kiln near Shawbost, where ancient water-powered milling reveals the Isle of Lewis’s Viking heritage.
Shawbost Beach
19.2 km
Discover the tranquil horseshoe bay of Shawbost Beach, where calm waters and rugged cliffs create a serene coastal escape on the Isle of Lewis.
Essential places to dine
Uig Sands Restaurant
5.3 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Doune Braes Hotel
10.2 km
Traditional 3-star guest house on the Isle of Lewis offering homely comfort, local cuisine, and serene Hebridean landscapes.
Loch Erisort Hotel
24.3 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
28.6 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
The New Lewis Bar
32.0 km
Experience the warmth of Hebridean hospitality at The New Lewis Bar—your family-friendly pub with great drinks and live music in Stornoway.
Crown Hotel
32.0 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, hearty Scottish fare, and a lively bar with a wide whiskey selection.
Star Inn
32.0 km
Discover the cozy charm of Star Inn in Stornoway - your perfect pub getaway with local flavors and warm hospitality.
Blake’s Bar & Kitchen
32.1 km
A vibrant blend of local flavors and lively atmosphere in the heart of Stornoway’s dining scene.
HS-1 Cafe Bar
32.1 km
Lively café-bar in Stornoway serving fresh local dishes with stunning marina and Lews Castle views in a relaxed, friendly setting.
The Boatshed Restaurant
32.1 km
Savor fresh Hebridean seafood with stunning marina views in Stornoway’s acclaimed Boatshed Restaurant.
Cabarfeidh Hotel
32.1 km
Experience modern comfort and authentic Hebridean hospitality just steps from Stornoway’s historic Lews Castle.
Harbour Kitchen
32.1 km
Experience the freshest Outer Hebrides seafood in a cozy, open-kitchen setting at Harbour Kitchen, Stornoway’s celebrated culinary gem.
No.9 By The Harbour
32.1 km
A cozy coffee shop and cocktail bar in Stornoway blending great brews, creative drinks, and a welcoming community vibe by the harbor.
Bridge Centre Cafe
32.1 km
Cozy cafe in Stornoway’s Bayhead serving fresh, hearty meals and local treats daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
La Balena - Italian Restaurant
32.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh Hebridean seafood in a warm, family-run setting at La Balena in Stornoway.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Broch Gift Shop
10.2 km
Discover authentic island crafts and cozy coffee moments at Broch Gift Shop in Doune, Isle of Lewis.
Islewear
11.5 km
Handcrafted Hebridean jewellery inspired by the wild landscapes and heritage of the Isle of Lewis.
Weaver
12.5 km
Discover authentic Hebridean craftsmanship at The Crafty Weaver, where traditional Harris Tweed weaving meets unique island artistry on the Isle of Lewis.
Dancing Flower Crafts
13.3 km
Discover unique, handcrafted Harris Tweed gifts inspired by the vibrant life and landscapes of the Isle of Lewis at Dancing Flower Crafts.
Garynahine Harris Tweed
13.9 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship in the tranquil village of Garynahine, Isle of Lewis, where tradition and heritage weave together.
Amor Weavers
19.3 km
Discover authentic handwoven treasures celebrating the rich textile heritage of the Isle of Lewis at Amor Weavers in Shawbost.
West Side Furniture Store
21.1 km
Explore exceptional handcrafted furniture and home decor at West Side Furniture Store in the charming Bragar, Isle of Lewis.
The Weaving Shed
31.3 km
Discover authentic Hebridean tweed weaving and handcrafted artistry in a serene Isle of Lewis crofting village.
Empty House Traders
32.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and handcrafted art at Empty House Traders, Stornoway’s beloved boutique on South Beach.
Lewis Revival
32.1 km
Discover unique Hebridean antiques and homewares at Lewis Revival, a cozy gift shop in the heart of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Influence Clothing
32.1 km
A stylish boutique in Stornoway offering curated women’s fashion and elegant homeware in the heart of the Outer Hebrides.
The Hebridean Hobby Centre
32.1 km
A cozy craft shop in Stornoway showcasing handmade Hebridean crafts, textiles, and local art – perfect for unique island souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Harris Tweed Hebrides
32.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and heritage at Harris Tweed Hebrides in Stornoway, the heart of Scottish island weaving tradition.
Sardar & Sons
32.1 km
Discover quality clothing and distinctive hats for special occasions at Sardar & Sons, Stornoway’s trusted local fashion destination.
Tweedtastic
32.1 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
THE HARBOUR BAR
32.0 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
32.1 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Artizan
32.1 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
McNeills
32.1 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
32.1 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
32.6 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
33.1 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Rip
42.4 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.
Cross Inn
47.5 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Old Barn Bar
47.5 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
The Bothy
49.6 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
50.4 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
Westford Inn
76.9 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
The Ferry Inn
77.6 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Stein Inn
81.0 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scaladale Centre
26.8 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
41.7 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
99.2 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
