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.

Saligo Bay

Season: summer

Nestled to the south of the rock formation known as the “Sleeping Giant”, Saligo Bay and its beach are two of the most naturally beautiful places on Islay. The bay faces west, so this is an ideal place to enjoy a sunset. The light is clear and photographers are drawn here. Access is by foot and there is no car park. You approach over the dunes and a spectacular beach is laid out in front of you.

What the beach means to Carol and Brian.

A view from behind the beach…

…and down by the sea among pristine nature.

Machir Bay

Season: summer

The beach at Machir Bay, also known as Kilchoman, comprises almost two miles of exquisite soft sand, backed by dunes and machair, which is resplendent with wild flowers in the early summer. It is located on the western side of Islay. Access is via the stream that runs into the beach. Swimming is not advised here, due to the strong currents. Facing west, this is a fine place to enjoy a sunset. There’s a track at the southern end of the beach, leading to Kilchiaran Bay, Dun Choisprig, which was an Iron Age fort and Grannie’s Rock.

With Jan and Keith by the beach.

The scene at Machir Bay.

Machrihanish

Season: autumn

Machrihanish and its beach are located on the western side of the Kintyre peninsula. With some of the best surfing in the UK, the beach is long and sandy, backed by dunes and Machrihanish Golf Club. Perfect for a walk or run, the glorious isolation is tempered by a friendly, up-market feel to the village. Here you can eat well, sleep well, enjoy the evening and the sunsets, then do it all again the following day.

With Anthony by the first tee at Machrihanish Golf Club.

A beach as a fairway.