Author Archives: manonabeach

About manonabeach

On a beach…welcome to manonabeach.com, where I’ll regularly add video of my beach visits, so you can enjoy a flavour of the beach, even when you’re not there.

Tiree

Season: autumn

Tiree is credited with the highest levels of sunshine in the UK. It is warmed by the Gulf Stream and has the appearance of a raised beach. Access is straightforward, by air or by ferry and the welcome is warm. Spectacular beaches abound, all within walking distance of the airport and there are varied choices of accommoodation to suit any pocket. Tiree is a haven for maritime and migratory wildlife, including cormorants, various gulls, barnacle geese, Golden Plover and Godwits, to name but a few. Early summer is an excellent time to visit, when the machair behind the beaches explodes with colour, as the wildflowers bloom. Exquisite and highly recommended.

Spring visit photo gallery – to follow.

Spring season interview – to follow.

Spring season scene setting film – to follow.

The Big Strand

Season: autumn

Measuring over twelve kilometres in length, the Big Strand beach runs from the north at Laggan Point via the airport down to Kintra. As a result, Laggan Bay and Kintra are also names used to describe this strand. Water sports are popular, including kayaking, yachting, and surfing. The tides can be a bit testing, so although it’s safe to swim, stay near the shore. Finally, there’s always a magnificent sunset to enjoy on this west-facing beach.

With Dean at The Machrie Golf Club behind The Big Strand.

On the balcony at The Machrie.

The scene at the Kintra end of The Big Strand.

Kilnaughton Bay

Season: summer

Kilnaughton Bay’s beach sits across from Port Ellen in the south of Islay. This secluded bay is ideal for paddling and the access is straightforward. There are views across to the Mull of Kintyre and to Carraig Fhada Lighthouse. Water sports are popular here, including waterskiing and kayaking. Nearby Port Ellen has a relaxed feel and is very welcoming, with all the shops, eateries and facilities that a visitor might need, not to mention the distilleries.

What the beach means to Sarah and Dave.

The start of the day at Kilnaughton Bay, Port Ellen.