British Beaches

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"I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach."

West Sandwick Beach

Shetland Islands, Scotland


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West Sandwick Beach, located on the west coast of Yell in the Shetland Isles, is a hidden gem that offers stunning views and unique features.

West Sandwick Beach is a quaint white sand beach that is nestled amongst softly sloping dunes, providing a secluded spot for visitors. The beach boasts amazing views of rocky outcrops towards the northern mainland of Shetland, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Shetland Isles.

The beach has several unique features, including the presence of *carex maritima*, a rare curved sedge that grows near an exit stream on the beach. Additionally, the area to the south of Southladie Flo serves as an important feeding locale for red-throated diver birds, which breed in the nearby area.

West Sandwick Beach is a popular spot for water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and wind surfing. Visitors should be aware that there is no lifeguard service on the beach. The beach is accessible via a single-track road, and there is a bus route to the nearby town of West Sandwick.

Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, making it a great destination for pet owners. The beach has also received a regional Seaside Award, recognising its cleanliness and quality.

Bay Cove Sand

Weather and tides for Sunday 20 July

Tonight
Chance of rain 30%
Min temp. 17°C
(feels like 15°C)
Wind 16mph
Tomorrow (Monday)
Chance of rain 10%
Max temp. 22°C
(feels like 19°C)
Wind 18mph
Max UV Index

The tide at West Sandwick Beach is currently falling. Low tide will be at approximately 1:38 AM tomorrow, and the next high tide will be at approximately 8:02 AM tomorrow.

Today's air pollution levels are forecast to be Moderate

Approximate sea surface temperature:   13.7°C  

Detailed weather and tides »
  • Popular Activities

    Bird watching Sunbathing Walking
  • Features

    Dunes
  • Parking

    Free parking is available next to the beach.

  • Dogs

  • Beach Cleaning

    Cleaned regularly throughout the bathing season.

  • Lifeguard

    No lifeguard cover at this beach

  • Water Quality

    Water quality not measured here

    Water quality not measured here

Recommended holiday cottages near West Sandwick Beach

Location: West Sandwick

Location type: Rural

OS Grid: HU446890

Country: Scotland

Local Authority: Shetland Islands

Nearest postcode: ZE2 9BH

(for sat-nav purposes only, a beach does not have a postal address!)

Important! Beach information is compiled from a variety of different sources and is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of compilation. However, information may be incorrectly supplied by our sources or go out of date after publication. BritishBeaches.uk makes no warranty as to the accuracy of any information on this page.

Stuff you might want for the beach!

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Visitor information for West Sandwick Beach, Shetland Islands, Scotland. Weather, tides, visitor comments, beach facilities, photos, nearest postcode, beach information and nearby accommodation.

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18.97.14.83 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 20:22:31 +0100