Camusdarach Beach: The Best Visitor Guide
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Camusdarach beach is the best-known beach near Mallaig. If you are wondering whether this beach should be on your itinerary, the answer is yes.
It is the longest and has amazing views out to the Small Isles.
Having visited the area several times I have put together this guide which has all the information you need to plan your trip.
It covers why the beach is worth visiting, where to park, whether you can swim, is the beach dog friendly and other questions you might have.
Where Is Camusdarach Beach Located?
Camusdarach beach is in the Scottish highlands close to the small town of Mallaig. The beach is along the B8008 close to Morar and Mallaig. For more detailed Camusdarach beach directions click on the map above.
There are several beaches near Mallaig, they are all along the B8008 which run between Morar and Arisaig. One of them is Camusdarach beach. Morar village and train station are the closest but Arisaig is not far away.
Is Camusdarach Beach Worth a Visit?
Yes, the beach is absolutely worth a visit.
What makes this beach special is it is the longest and most impressive beach in the area around Morar and Arisaig. Camusdarach beach also has fantastic views out to sea and the Small Isles of Rum and Eigg.
All the beaches along the B8008 look very different. The two other beaches in the area not to miss are Silver Sands beach and Traigh Beach.
These two beaches have more varied views than Camusdarach beach. However, they are not as long and don’t have the same views of the Small Isles.
Where Is the Camusdarach Beach Car Park?
The Camusdarach beach parking is shown in blue on the map above and it is also shown on Google maps.
The car park is not well sign posted and the turn off is quite sudden. Look up the location in advance to help you find it.
Like all the other car parks in the area it is small compared to the number of people visiting the beach. On a sunny day you have to arrive early to find a space.
How to Access the Beach?
The beach is a 5-minute walk from the car park.
In the corner of the car park there is a path that leads over a wooden bridge. On the other side of the bridge turn right down a sandy track. This track opens out at one end of the beach.
Continuing straight ahead after crossing the bridge you get to the other end of the beach. You can also continue further on to a couple of smaller beaches.
One of the best walks in the area is to take this path one way and return along the beach.
How Long Should I Spend at the Beach?
On a sunny day during the summer you could spend all day on the beach.
To just “see” the beach plan to spend at least 30 minutes – or longer for anyone wanting to do the circular walk described above.
Are There Any Other Facilities at the Beach?
There are no facilities at the beach.
There are no toilets at Camusdarach car park but Silver Sands of Morar and Traigh Beach both have toilets.
How Important Are Tide Levels?
Tide levels are not particularly important for this beach.
It is wider at low tide, but it is not important enough to time your visit for a particular tide level.
Can You Swim at Camusdarach Beach?
Yes, you can swim at Camusdarach beach. Arisaig has several beaches that are popular for swimming but this is the longest and most impressive beach.
However, there can be waves so check the sea conditions before you swim.
What Other Water Sport Is the Beach Suitable For?
The distance from the car park to the beach makes it more of an effort to carry equipment such as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards than at Silver Sands of Morar and Traigh beach.
These two beaches are more sheltered and as a result more suited for water sports.
There is nowhere in the area to rent kayaks but two companies that offer trips are:
- Arisaig Sea Kayaking Centre – arrange full day trips for paddlers of all levels of experience in and around Arisaig
- Rockhopper Sea Kayaking – provide full or half day kayaking trips past Silver Sands of Morar as well as many of the other beaches in the area
Is Camusdarach Beach Dog Friendly?
Yes, Camusdarach beach is dog friendly. All the beaches in Arisaig are dog friendly and are popular places to take your dog for walk.
Visiting the Arisaig area? Read my post on what to do in Arisaig
Best Viewpoints
On the Beach
When it reaches the beach the small sandy track gradually gets wider.
A small river runs into the sea creating stripes of water and sand. Together with the islands of Rum and Eigg in the distance it makes for beautiful photos.
The beach itself is long but not the most interesting to photograph. What makes it worth walking along it is the views out to the small isles of Rum and Eigg.
The Top of the Sand Dune
Behind the beach is a tall and steep sand dune. From the top you can look down onto the beach.
You can even see Isle of Skye in the distance.
Other Things to Do in the Area
1. Explore the Beaches
One of the top attractions in the Arisaig area is to explore the Arisaig and Morar beaches along the B8008.
Some of the beaches don’t appear on Google maps, making it even more fun to stumble upon what feels like an undiscovered beach.
To plan your visit to the beaches in the area read my post on the best Arisaig beaches.
2. Loch Morar
Loch Morar, next to Morar village, is Scotland’s deepest loch. It is one of the top things to see in Morar.
There are lots of great hiking paths around Loch Morar’s northern side.
You can begin from Bracorina if you drive there. If you want a longer hike, walk to Tarbet and then catch a boat back to Mallaig to make the most of the beautiful scenery.
Alternatively, you can enjoy views of the loch from Our Lady of Perpetual Succour & St Cumin’s Church.
3. Our Lady of Perpetual Succour & St Cumin’s Church
In 1887, Lord Lovat, the area’s biggest landowner at the time, came up with the idea for this church.
He wanted to provide a better and more convenient place for his tenants to worship, hoping it would encourage them to stay.
Even though he passed away before the construction started, his wife made sure his wish was carried out. The church was finished in 1889.
There is plenty of parking for visitors, and everyone is welcome to visit the church.
4. Day Trips to the Small Isles
During the summer months, Arisaig Marine offers day trips to the Small Isles.
Muck and Eigg are often on the schedule, with occasional trips to Rum and Canna in June, July, and August.
Each of these islands has its unique charm, making for a memorable day trip. In particular, don’t miss the chance to see puffins (from a distance) on Canna in June or July.
5. Wildlife Excursions
Wildlife cruises operate from nearby Arisaig and Mallaig.
These cruises frequently come across seals. With some luck, you can also catch sight of other wildlife such as otters, dolphins, minke whales, and basking sharks.
Restaurants and Cafes Nearby
When it comes to dining in this area, choices are somewhat limited. Packing a picnic is your best bet.
You are allowed to use disposable barbecues on the beach, but remember to clean up after yourselves. Leave no leftover food or trash behind.
In Morar, your only option is the Morar Hotel, though it receives mixed reviews.
For more restaurants to choose from, you might want to go to Mallaig or Arisaig:
- Arisaig Marina is a great lunch option with fantastic views of the Small Isles.
- The Old Library Lodge in Arisaig serves pub food but require advance reservations.
- The Cabin in Mallaig has a wide selection of seafood. The fish and chips is amazing!
Are you planning to see the steam train at Glenfinnan? Read my post on how to find the best Glenfinnan viaduct viewpoints
Camusdarach Beach Accommodation
The Morar and Arisaig area has a beautiful coastline, but there are not many places to stay.
Most accommodations are campsites and pods. The Morar Hotel gets mixed reviews but two better rated options are:
1. The Old Library and Lodge – Arisaig Village
Situated in Arisaig village, The Old Library and Lodge is a historic inn and the nearest thing you’ll find to a hotel in Arisaig. For pricing and availability, click here.
2. Seann Airidh B&B – Back of Keppoch
Located in the Back of Keppoch area, Seann Airidh B&B is a small bed and breakfast known for its delicious breakfast offerings. They also welcome dogs. To check pricing and availability, click here.
For more choice, stay in Mallaig or Fort William.
How Do I Get To Camusdarach Beach?
By Car: Car is by far the easiest way to get around Arisaig and to Camusdarach beach. Mallaig is less than a 15 min drive from the beach. From Fort William it is 1 hour and 10 minutes.
It is possible to do a day trip to Camusdarach beach from the Armadale area on Skye. The Mallaig to Armadale ferry is frequent and only takes 30 minutes.
The only problem with driving is parking. Arrive early during the summer months, especially on days with warm and sunny weather.
Book your car hire with Rental Cars
By Bike: This is an excellent option. The beach is a long walk from any of the bus or train stations but its much quicker by bike.
By Train: Local trains stop at both Morar and Arisaig.
The closest train station is Morar which is 4.5 km from the beach. Arisaig is 7 km away from Camusdarach beach. Mallaig is only about 9 km away but the cars come very fast along the A830 for anyone planning to cycle.
Many trains require a bike ticket to be able to bring your bike. This can be added for free whilst making bookings online.
By Bus: Shiel Buses run from Mallaig and Fort William to Morar, Back of Keppoch and Arisaig.
Four buses operate on this route, the 500, 502, 505 and 534. Check the latest bus schedule because not all buses stop at every station.
FAQs
What Time of Year to Visit
Weather in the Summer Months
Your best shot at good weather in this region is during the summer months. July and August usually bring the warmest temperatures, but if you are looking for more sunshine, May and June offer longer daylight hours.
That being said, this is Scotland, and unpredictability is part of the deal. Be ready for a day that can include rain, be chilly, and bright sunshine, possibly all at once.
Dealing with Midges in Summer
Traveling during the summer months does come with a potential challenge – midges.
How many midges you see depends on the year and the weather. Usually, a bit of wind can help keep them away.
But don’t worry too much about these tiny bugs when you explore this area. They won’t stop you enjoying Camusdarach beach!
Is the Beach Suitable for Families With Children?
Yes, this beach is popular with families. On a sunny day this is the first car park that normally fills up with beach goers.
However, the beach often has more waves than some of the other, more sheltered beaches in the area. Therefore, it might not be as suitable as Silver Sands or Traigh Beach for swimming or playing in the sea for young children.
Is Camusdarach Beach Good for Sunset?
Camusdarach beach is the best beach along the B8008 for sunset. It is west facing and looks out to the open sea and the Small Isles of Rum and Eigg, which makes for beautiful photos.
One thing to consider is what time the sun sets at Camsudarach beach. Sunset is late in June this far north at at 22.20.
Is the Beach Accessible for People With Mobility Issues?
No, this beach is difficult to access for anyone with mobility issues. The sandy tracks are narrow and it is a reasonable walk to the beach.
There is no wheelchair access.
Is Camping Allowed?
Wild camping in a tent is allowed at the beach. However, don’t leave any litter or traces of you having stayed the night.
Motor homes are not permitted to stay overnight in the car park close to the beach. Instead stay at Camusdarach Campsite which is close by.
Can I Have a Bonfire or Barbecue on the Beach?
Beach bonfires are not allowed, but you can use disposable barbecues instead.
Remember to pack up all your leftovers and trash and leave the beach nice and clean, just like you found it.
Final Thoughts
Camusdarach beach is the most well-known beach in the area between Arisaig and Morar. And it should certainly be on your list of things to do whilst in the area.
During the summer spend a day on the beach. If the weather is not so good then go for a walk along the beach.
Regardless of the weather or time of year anyone travelling to Arisaig, Morar or Mallaig should add this beach to their itinerary.
LOOKING FOR MORE ON ARISAIG AND MORAR?
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