About This Place

Sandside Bay is a natural bay found on the northern coast of the Scottish mainland about 30 miles west of John O’Groats.  The bay features a harbour, built in 1830.  --> The remote, beach here has a decent expanse of pale sand with some rocky patches and is backed by dunes and grasslands.  The Sandside Burn and the Burn of Isauld both enter the sea in the bay.  The beach is popular with Surfers who come here to surf the powerful left-hand reef break.  However, the break requires particular conditions and surfers should note that the bay is rocky, shallow and quite dangerous because of the irregular form of the reef. The beach lies in a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Reay golf course lies immediately behind the beach.  There are limited facilities in the small village of Reay, which has been inhabited for millennia and features some interesting archaeological sites, including the remains of a stone circle.  More extensive facilities can be found in the town of Thurso.

💡 Our Take

Discover the dog-friendly charm of Sandside Bay, an idyllic hidden gem in the heart of Scotland. With its fine golden sands, this beach is a perfect year-round haven for dogs to run free and explore. Parking is conveniently close by, and while facilities are a bit sparse, nearby towns cater to additional needs. The gentle waters offer safe swimming, although we recommend keeping a leash handy for less confident pups. Ideal for adventuresome puppies and larger breeds, Sandside Bay promises an unforgettable outing. A top tip: pack extra water, as those wagging tails will surely work up a thirst!