Traigh Beach: Everything You Need to Know
This post has compensated links which means that I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Read the disclaimer to learn more.
Traigh beach is not the best known beach in Arisaig but it should definitely be on your list to visit.
It is great for swimming and water sports and you can explore the many small coves around the bay. Something else that makes it special is how varied the views are from different parts of the beach.
Having been to the area several times I have put together the below guide to help you plan your trip. It answers the questions you might have around parking, toilet facilities and everything else.
Is Traigh Beach Worth a Visit?
Yes, Traigh beach is worth a visit. The beach is made up of several smaller coves around a bay.
Behind the car park you look out towards green hills in the background and the golf course clubhouse in the foreground.
On the other side of the bay the landscape is flat. When looking out to sea the islands of Eigg and Rum can be seen in the distance.
Traigh beach is less well known than the other two main beaches near Arisaig. They are called Camusdarach beach and Silver Sands of Morar. All three are worth a visit.
Traigh beach is my favourite due to the varied views and how different it looks between low and high tide.
Where Is Traigh Beach Located?
Traigh beach is in the Scottish Highlands close to the villages of Arisaig and Mallaig. The beach is located along the B8008 right next to Traigh Golf Course.
Where Is the Traigh Beaches Car Park?
The car park for the beach is called Traigh Beaches Car Park and it is along the B8008. It is marked on Google Maps and is shown on the map above.
During the summer months the beach is very popular. The car park is only small and it fills up early. There is no alternative parking so make sure you arrive early.
Along the road is a short stay car park (marked on the map above in orange) and you can park for up to 30 minutes.
Across the road from the golf course club house is a parking area reserved for golfers. You cannot park here when visiting the beach.
Although you are not allowed to park along the road, many people do and it can be quite chaotic on a summers day.
How to Access the Beach?
Traigh Beach is not one large beach but several smaller ones. Two of the beaches are right in front of the car park. A third is a short walk along a path on the right.
Walking in the direction of Arisaig there is a long beach in front of the golf course clubhouse. Next to the Silver Sands Caravan Park are several smaller beaches.
Are There Any Facilities at the Beach?
The beach has toilet facilities close to the short stay parking.
There are no other facilities at the beach.
How Important Are Tide Levels?
Tide levels make a big difference to how the beach looks and what activities you can do.
Anyone wanting to go swimming or do water sports should arrive around high tide. It is still possible to swim at low tide but there is little water left in the bay.
At low tide take a walk along the beach since it is easier to explore all the little coves.
Can You Swim at Traigh Beach?
Yes, you can swim at Traigh beach. Arisaig has several beaches that are good for swimming.
Silver Sands and Camusdarach beaches are two other popular beaches for swimming.
It is best to swim around high tide. Being a protected bay there are rarely large waves making it a good option for families with younger children.
Looking for more beaches? Read my post on the best beaches in Airsaig
What Other Water Sports Is the Beach Suitable For?
The beach is popular for stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking. The road is right next to the beach making it easy to transport kayaks to the water.
Is Traigh Beach Dog Friendly?
Yes, the beach is dog friendly. All the beaches in the area are dog friendly and it is a popular area to walk dogs.
Other Things to Do in the Area
In addition to the beaches there are many other interesting things to see and do in the area. Some of the top ones are:
- Wildlife boat cruises to spot seals and puffins
- Hiking by Loch Morar
- Arisaig museum
- See the views from Morar Cross
- Kayaking
- Play golf at Traigh beach golf course
- Admire the flowers in Larachmor garden
For more information read my posts on the best things to do near Arisaig and what to do in Morar.
Restaurants and Cafes Nearby
There are no restaurants or places to eat between Arisaig and Morar. Bring a picnic instead.
Of the two villages, Arisaig has the most choice. A couple of options in Arisaig are:
- Arisaig Marine – lunch only. Serves lunch, cakes and hot drinks accompanied by views out towards Eigg
- Soundbytes – lunch only. Serves more substantial meals such as burgers and fish and chips
- The Old Library – lunch and dinner. Inside the hotel of the same name is a restaurant that serves pub food. Reserve a table in advance.
Alternatively, Mallaig has plenty of options. Go to The Cabin for amazing fish and chips.
Arisaig Accommodation
The Silver Sands Caravan Park is right next to the beach. However, camping is not for everyone.
Two options close to the beaches are:
- The Old Library and Lodge – Arisaig village – This is the closest thing you will find to a hotel in Arisaig. Click here to check prices and availability.
- Seann Airidh B&B – Back of Keppoch – A small B&B that welcomes dogs. Click here to check prices and availability.
For more choice try one of the B&Bs in Mallaig.
How Do I Get To Traigh Beach?
By Car: Despite parking being difficult driving is the easiest way to get to the beach.
The beach is a 15-minute drive from Mallaig and 10 minutes from Arisaig.
It is possible to do a day trip from Skye when staying in the area close to Armdale. Board the frequent Mallaig to Isle of Skye ferry which only takes 30 minutes.
By Bike: Since there is limited public transport in the area a bike is an excellent option to get around. It is a long walk from Morar or Arisaig train stations but by bike it is only 20 minutes.
You can bring bikes on most (but not all) local trains. Bikes need their own ticket but are free and can be added when purchasing your train ticket.
Bike rentals are available in Mallaig and Fort William from:
- Fort William – Off Beat Bikes
- Mallaig – Mallaig Pool & Leisure
By Train: Traigh beach is pretty much right in between Arisaig and Morar train stations. From either station it is well over an hour on foot to the beach.
By Bus: The bus stop closest to the beach is called Back of Keppoch. From here it is a 3 km walk which takes about 40 minutes.
FAQs Traigh Beaches
Is There a Traigh Beach Caravan Site?
Right next to the beach is Silver Sand Caravan Park. Part of the site has fantastic views out over the beach and the bay.
Several of the campsites in the area have beaches in front of them but nothing matches the views from this site.
Can You Wild Camp?
Yes, you can wild camp. There are toilet facilities right next to the beach which is handy for camping.
Make sure you follow the Scottish outdoor code and leave the area in the same condition as you found it. In other words, take all your rubbish with you.
Is the Beach Good for Sunset?
The beach is not as nice as Camusdarach beach for sunset. The reason is that you don’t get unobstructed views out to sea and the Small Isles.
Final Thoughts
Traigh beach has easy access from the road and car park and there is a large caravan site close by.
Despite sometimes being busy it is one of the most interesting beaches in the area to explore.
At high tide it is perfect for families with young children who want to swim or anyone wanting to do water sports. At low tide it is great for walking amongst all the small coves.
LOOKING FOR MORE ON ARISAIG AND MORAR?
Silver Sands of Morar Beach Guide
Camusdarach Beach: The Best Visitor Guide
