Best beaches in Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands host a variety of unique coastal formations, including St Ninian’s Isle, the largest active sand tombolo in the UK. These sites range from the urban sands of Bain's Beach in Lerwick to the remote white sands of Meal Beach and Banna Minn in West Burra. The Pool of Virkie offers a specialized tidal lagoon environment for birdwatching, while the Ayre of Hamnavoe showcases the traditional shingle and sand barriers characteristic of the archipelago's geomorphology.

Bain's Beach

Small sandy beach in Lerwick's historic center, adjacent to the Lodberries. It is a frequent filming location for the BBC crime drama Shetland.

Pool of Virkie

The Pool of Virkie is a tidal lagoon in the parish of Dunrossness, south Mainland, Shetland.

Tombolo

The largest active shell sand tombolo in the United Kingdom, this natural causeway connects the Shetland mainland to St Ninian's Isle.

Ayre of Hamnavoe

A coastal sand and shingle barrier located in the fishing village of Hamnavoe on West Burra.

Meal Beach

White sand beach on West Burra, accessible via a gravel path from the local car park.

Banna Minn Beach

A narrow sand tombolo on West Burra that connects the mainland to the Minn headland, featuring beaches on both sides of the strip.

Other Lists

Shetland Islands Essentials Archaeological Sites & Ruins Museums & History Iconic Lighthouses of Shetland Scenic Viewpoints of Shetland