Durness Beach: Remote Highland Coastal Beauty
Discover the wild, golden sands and tranquil beauty of Durness Beach, a remote Highland gem where sea meets rugged cliffs.
Durness Beach, located in the remote northwest Highlands of Scotland near the village of Durness, offers stunning golden sands meeting the azure sea. This pristine beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes, providing a tranquil and scenic escape. Known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, it is a perfect spot for beachcombing, photography, and enjoying the wild coastal environment.
A brief summary to Durness Beach
- Lairg, Durness, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 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
- Bring sturdy footwear for walking on uneven terrain and rocky areas near the beach.
- Visit during late spring or summer for the most pleasant weather and clearer skies.
- Respect the natural environment by carrying out all litter and minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Smoo Cave and Balnakeil Beach for a fuller Highland experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Inverness to Durness Beach takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours via the A9 and A838. The route is scenic but involves narrow Highland roads; parking is available near the beach. Fuel and services are limited en route, so plan accordingly.
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Inverness to Durness village, with travel times around 5 to 6 hours, depending on connections. From Durness village, the beach is accessible by a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk. Bus services are less frequent in winter.
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Walking
For adventurous walkers, hiking routes from nearby Balnakeil or Durness village to the beach offer immersive Highland landscapes. Expect uneven terrain and variable weather; suitable for experienced walkers with proper gear. Duration varies from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Durness 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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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Durness Beach
Untouched Coastal Splendor in the Scottish Highlands
Durness Beach is a striking stretch of golden sand nestled on Scotland’s far northwestern coast. Its remote location within the Highlands ensures a largely unspoiled environment, where the sea meets rugged cliffs and wild moorland. The beach’s wide expanse of soft sand and clear blue waters create a serene setting that feels far removed from urban life. The natural beauty here is accentuated by the strong contrasts of the landscape: the deep blue sea, white sandy shores, and the green and brown hues of surrounding hills.Geological and Natural Features
The beach lies close to notable geological formations, including limestone cliffs and nearby caves such as the famous Smoo Cave, a large sea cave with freshwater chambers. The area’s geology reflects millennia of natural sculpting by wind and water, offering fascinating rock formations and coastal features. Wildlife is abundant, with seabirds often seen soaring overhead and occasional sightings of marine mammals offshore. The beach’s clean waters and natural setting make it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Durness Beach is renowned for its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. It is ideal for visitors seeking solitude or a quiet retreat into nature. The beach is perfect for leisurely walks, beachcombing, and soaking in panoramic coastal views. The sound of waves and the fresh Highland air enhance the sensory experience. Despite its remoteness, the beach is accessible enough for day trips or longer stays, with nearby accommodations offering cozy Highland hospitality.Local Culture and Surroundings
The nearby village of Durness provides a glimpse into Highland life, with small local shops, cafes, and accommodations that cater to visitors exploring the area. The region is steeped in Gaelic culture and history, with traditional crofting communities and a strong connection to the land and sea. Visitors often combine a trip to the beach with exploring other natural attractions in the area, such as Smoo Cave and Balnakeil Beach.Seasonal and Weather Considerations
The beach’s remote northern location means weather can be variable, with cool temperatures and frequent winds typical outside summer months. Clear skies and mild weather in late spring and summer provide the best conditions for visiting, though the beach’s rugged charm endures year-round. Winter visits offer dramatic, stormy seascapes but require preparation for colder, wetter conditions.Preservation and Sustainability
Durness Beach benefits from its relative isolation and low visitor numbers, helping to preserve its natural state. Efforts to maintain the environment emphasize minimal impact and respect for wildlife habitats. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the beach pristine for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stoer Lighthouse
53.2 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Braal Castle
73.2 km
A 14th-century Highland fortress overlooking the River Thurso, once seat of the Earls of Caithness.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
78.1 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
79.3 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
79.9 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
80.0 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Above and Beyond Tours
80.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Caithness.Org
83.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
88.5 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
Dwarfie Stane
89.4 km
Explore the Dwarfie Stane in Hoy, Orkney – a fascinating historical landmark that blends ancient mystery with breathtaking natural beauty.
Lybster Harbour
89.6 km
Discover Lybster Harbour’s historic fishing charm and serene coastal beauty nestled in Scotland’s rugged Caithness coastline.
RSPB Scotland Hoy nature reserve
90.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of RSPB Scotland Hoy Nature Reserve, a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
Walkhighlands
91.4 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Hill O' Many Stanes
93.2 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Hill O' Many Stanes, a Neolithic landmark in Scotland's breathtaking Highlands, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
93.4 km
Explore the stunning Yesnaby Coastal Walk in Orkney, where breathtaking cliffs and rich wildlife create an unforgettable hiking experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Smoo Cave
1.2 km
Explore Britain’s largest sea cave with a stunning waterfall, hidden chambers, and rich history in Scotland’s wild North West Highlands.
Balnakeil Church
1.9 km
A windswept 17th-century church ruin above Balnakeil Bay, with a haunting graveyard, Gaelic bard’s memorial, and a highwayman buried in the wall.
Golden Eagle Zip Line in Durness
4.4 km
Britain's most northerly zipline: 37 meters of pure adrenaline above the Atlantic.
Tongue Causeway
19.3 km
Scenic 3.8 km causeway and bridge crossing the Kyle of Tongue, offering stunning Highland views and wildlife encounters.
Castle Varrich
20.4 km
Explore Castle Varrich, a historic castle in the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past.
Am Buachaille
20.7 km
A remote sandstone sea stack near Sandwood Bay, offering challenging climbs and breathtaking wild coastal scenery in Scotland’s far northwest.
Norse Bakehouse
20.9 km
A cozy family-run cafe in Rhitongue serving artisan focaccia, pizzas, and cakes with friendly service and stunning Highland views.
Broch Dun Dornaigil
23.3 km
Explore Broch Dun Dornaigil, a stunning Iron Age monument in the Scottish Highlands, blending rich history with breathtaking natural beauty.
Polin Beach
23.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Polin Beach, a secluded golden sandy cove framed by dunes in the wild Scottish Highlands.
North West Sutherland National Scenic Area
24.1 km
Explore ancient landscapes, rich wildlife, and rugged beauty in Scotland’s North West Sutherland National Scenic Area.
Torrisdale beach
28.7 km
A pristine mile of golden sand and dunes on Scotland's wild north coast, where rivers meet the sea and history whispers through ancient stones.
Farr Beach Bettyhill
30.7 km
Secluded golden sands and rugged headlands meet serene waters at Farr Beach, a tranquil coastal gem near Bettyhill in northern Scotland.
Farr Bay, Bettyhill
30.9 km
Discover the wild, peaceful shores of Farr Bay near Bettyhill—where dramatic sea views and rich wildlife create a perfect Highland escape.
Strathnaver Museum
31.0 km
Explore 8,000 years of Highland history and the poignant story of the Clearances in the historic Strathnaver Museum near Bettyhill.
Assynt Viewpoint
38.1 km
Dramatic Highland peaks frame an ancient loch and castle ruins in Scotland's remote geological wonderland.
Essential places to dine
Tongue Hotel
21.3 km
Historic Highland lodge with modern luxury, stunning views, and authentic Scottish hospitality on the NC500.
The Store Bistro & Bar
30.3 km
Charming Highland bistro with diverse menus, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere in scenic Bettyhill, perfect for all-day dining and local flavors.
Shorehouse Restaurant
30.8 km
A cozy family-run seafood haven in Tarbet offering fresh catches, stunning Highland coast views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Scourie Hotel
34.0 km
A charming Highland fishing hotel on Scotland’s northwest coast, blending rustic tradition with cozy comfort and excellent local cuisine.
Eddrachilles Hotel
35.4 km
Charming Highland hotel with stunning sea views, authentic hospitality, and refined Scottish dining on the shores of Badcall Bay.
Kylesku Hotel
38.3 km
Experience Highland charm and fresh seafood with breathtaking views over Loch Glencoul at the welcoming Kylesku Hotel.
The Crask Inn
44.5 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
Halladale Inn
48.0 km
Cozy Highland inn and bistro in Melvich offering hearty Scottish fare, welcoming hospitality, and excellent touring park facilities.
Lochinver Larder
54.5 km
Savor handcrafted Highland pies amid stunning Scottish scenery in the welcoming village of Lochinver.
Delilah's
55.0 km
A lively, family-friendly Highland restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning sea views and a buzzing atmosphere.
An Cala Café
55.4 km
Fresh seafood and hearty Scottish fare served year-round in a cozy café and bunkhouse nestled in Lochinver’s scenic Culag Park.
The Pier
63.3 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ferry Inn Scrabster
69.1 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Scrabster offering hearty Scottish fare, cozy rooms, and stunning views of the bustling northern port.
Capilla Tapas Restaurant
69.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of Scrabster, offering a cozy taste of Spain in northern Scotland.
Captain's Galley Restaurant
69.2 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a charming harbour-side setting in Scotland’s northernmost reaches.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Stores
20.6 km
Discover local flavors at London Stores, the premier supermarket in Lairg, blending quality groceries with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Spellbound Caithness
69.8 km
Discover Spellbound Caithness, Thurso’s magical gift shop blending Highland enchantment, artisan crafts, and spiritual community in a unique creative haven.
The Cave
70.5 km
Discover The Cave in Thurso, a vibrant comic book shop offering graphic novels, collectibles, and a welcoming atmosphere for fans and newcomers alike.
Hallmark
70.6 km
Charming Hallmark gift shop in Thurso offering quality cards and thoughtful gifts in a historic setting at Sir John's Square.
The Kiln Store
70.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Thurso at The Kiln Store, a family-run treasure trove of northern Scottish heritage.
Buttress's
70.8 km
Discover unique fashion at Buttress's in Thurso, where style meets exceptional service in a cozy boutique setting.
Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
70.8 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Thurso for all your shopping needs, offering local products and friendly service.
Eye Candy
70.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Thurso’s historic High Street at Eye Candy.
Nickel & Dime
70.8 km
Discover Nickel & Dime in Thurso: Your essential convenience store for snacks, drinks, and local flavors in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
70.8 km
Discover unbeatable deals on branded fashion, beauty, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in Thurso’s bustling High Street.
The Captain's Cabin
78.8 km
Discover a cozy treasure trove of Scottish gifts, crafts, and friendly service at Ullapool’s charming Captain's Cabin.
Co-op Food - Brora - Gower Street
80.7 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Brora, the perfect stop for all your travel essentials and local products.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
84.1 km
Discover authentic Highland artistry and unique handcrafted gifts at Caithness Gifts & Crafts in Thurso, celebrating the spirit of northern Scotland.
Jail Dornoch
87.2 km
Discover a historic former jail transformed into a charming gift shop with authentic Highland spirit and unique local treasures.
Simply The Best Fair Trade Gifts
87.3 km
Discover ethically crafted fair trade gifts supporting global artisans in the heart of Dornoch Retail Park.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mr C's Bar
70.6 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Top Joe's
70.7 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
The Grove Lounge
70.8 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
80.9 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Mey Hotel
87.7 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Old Barn Bar
90.3 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
90.3 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
The Rip
91.5 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.
Platform 1864
93.0 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
The Village Inn
93.8 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Inver Inn
96.3 km
Cozy, dog-friendly pub in Tain’s Inver village serving fresh Scottish fare with warm hospitality and scenic Highland charm.
Harpers Bar
96.7 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
Camps Bar
96.9 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Blackstairs Lounge
97.0 km
A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Mountain Dew Bar
97.2 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skinandi's Nightclub
70.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
96.9 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly