Coral Beach

A day out at Coral Beach, Isle of Skye

When people think of the Isle of Skye, they picture rugged mountains and dramatic cliffs — not white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. But just a short drive from Dunvegan, you’ll find Coral Beach, a little slice of the tropics hidden on Scotland’s west coast.
Of course, this is still Skye — the water’s chilly and the weather can turn in a heartbeat — but on a sunny day, Coral Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful spots. It’s ideal for families looking for an easy walk, a picnic by the sea, and space for kids to explore.

Perfect for families and little explorers

Coral Beach is great for all ages. The walk from the car park is about 25 minutes along a flat, well-worn track, making it easy for young children. Once you reach the beach, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained — from paddling in the shallow waters to searching for shells and bits of coral (which isn’t actually coral, but sun-bleached algae called maerl).
There’s a small hill at the north end of the beach known as ‘Cnoc Mor’ — a short climb with rewarding views across Loch Dunvegan. Kids will love running up and down, while adults can enjoy the scenery or just relax on the sand.

Parking and facilities

Parking is available at Claigan, about 10 minutes’ drive from Dunvegan Castle. The car park is free but small, so during busy periods it’s worth arriving early. From there, it’s an easy out-and-back walk to the beach.
As for facilities — there aren’t any at the beach itself. No toilets, no shops, no cafés. Dunvegan village is your best bet for food, drinks, and public toilets before or after your visit. Bringing a picnic is highly recommended, especially if the weather’s playing nice.

How long do you need?

Allow around 2 hours for the visit — 45 minutes for the walk there and back, and at least an hour to enjoy the beach. On sunny days, you could easily spend longer soaking up the views, letting the kids paddle, or just sitting with a coffee and watching the world go by.

Good to know

Free parking, and no cost to visit
Easy, family-friendly walk (not suitable for prams due to rough track)
Bring food, water, and anything you need for a beach day
The water is safe for paddling but very cold — wetsuits if you plan on swimming
Keep dogs on leads around livestock along the path

A different side of Skye

Coral Beach is a reminder that Skye isn’t just about dramatic landscapes — it has peaceful corners too. It’s the perfect spot for families wanting a relaxed day out, where kids can run free and adults can enjoy one of the most scenic coastal views on the island.
Whether you visit on a sunny afternoon or catch it with moody skies and crashing waves, Coral Beach is always worth the walk. Just don’t forget your camera — and maybe a warm jumper, even in summer!

Location