Islay Beaches: Singing Sands

Turquoise shimmering seas, white sands and volcanic rock formations, and when the heat is on, a dip in the seas of the Singing Sands is definitely something to add to your ‘Islay time’ adventures. Here, if the wind blows, it whistles across the bay, with eerily beautiful ‘singing sands’.

A short and enjoyable walk, leading to fabulous beachy adventures, so get those hiking boots on.

Getting There

Hop into the car and it is a forty minute drive from Persabus. Head for Port Ellen, but once past the Machrie Hotel, where it is definitely worth stopping for a cocktail, or quick game of golf, continue on, head along take the single track road at the end of the main long straight. Turn right at the end and simply follow the road along to Kilnaughton Bay.

Kilnaughton Bay

There’s loads of parking on the grass beside Kilnaughton beach, but less parking opportunities if you decide to drive further along and access the end of Kilnaughton beside the old graveyard. The golden sands of Kilnaughton are also great to explore. Tucked away in the far corner are the ruins of what looks like a beautiful old chapel, it even has an intricate tiled floor. Nestled in among the sea pinks, it is in fact, the remains of a Victorian changing room, built by the late John Ramsay, for his wife.

Head for the Singing Sands

Once you reach the end of the bay, hop onto the little track, and you will see the stunningly beautiful Carraig Fhada Lighthouse, there’s definitely a photo opportunity here, before you trek along the track, which takes you up over the hillside above and beyond the houses. Enjoy walking through the sweetly scented wild flowers, and look out for the wild goats, also do make sure you are wearing sensible clothing as there may well be the odd tick lurking in the long grasses, so wait until you are on the sand to take off your socks and shoes, and dip into the beautiful blue seas of the Singing Sands.

With the recent heatwave, and days of beautiful sunshine, I can’t think of anywhere more perfect to enjoy an afternoon or evening dip in the sea. The bay is safe for swimmers, and popular with locals. An ideal spot for paddle boarding, if you have brought yours along on holiday too.

Charcuterie and Cheese Graze Box

Feeling peckish? Why not order a grazing box, a sharing platter from Craigard Kitchen, Ballygrant, to take along with you? Packed perfectly into a box, it is an ideal takeaway. Simply message Nicola, 24 hours in advance, and collect it on your way. Brimming with delicious cheeses, pickles, chutneys, olives, and salamis, providing a delicious feast for those beachy island adventures, or enjoy it with a glass of wine, or a dram, back on the farm, as the sun casts her golden rays across the Paps of Jura.