By the usual measures of tourism, Cornwall and Devon dominate the conversation. Its long-standing reputation as a coastline, charming seaside town and UK's most popular beach holiday destination attracts millions of people each year.
According to Cornwall opportunities, Cornwall alone has over 4 million visits and 14 million days of trips per night. Meanwhile, according to a 2018 report from Visitengland, Devon is ranked as England's fourth most popular visitor destination. But despite these statistics, neither county is the most beautiful beach I've ever stepped into. It is hidden on Harris, the Outer Hebrides in Scotland, an island that received only 219,000 visitors in 2017.
The beach in question is the beautiful Raskendy Bay. There is a reason why this place continues its top travel list. It was recently named the UK's Best Beach at TripAdvisor's 2024 Travelers' Choice Awards. This is a title that has been won several times in recent years.
It also ranks seventh in Europe in TripAdvisor's 2022 Roundup, often featuring publications such as Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, and the Times. With a 4.9 star rating from over 1,100 reviews, Luskentyre achieved an unusual feat that exceeded expectations for almost everyone visiting.
The view was amazing in early autumn and even before I stepped into the sand. The water was a turquoise colour, so it felt out of place, as if someone had lifted the Caribbean and gently dropped it down to the western edge of Scotland. And the beach itself was huge and empty. The white sand extends over miles (2 miles to be precise), and you can barely see footprints.
There are no beachside shops, fish and chip vans, or paddle board rentals. It's untouched – and it's part of its magic. One TripAdvisor user said in full, “If it's 80 degrees, I swear I'll be in the Maldives.”
Another reviewer wrote: “Laskentier Bay is a small slice of heaven on the coast of Harris, and honestly deserves every miles of the journey.” Even on a wet, windy day, it can still attract visitors.
“When we visited there was strong winds and rain, but it was the most beautiful beach I've ever seen,” reads one comment. It's worth noting that this kind of praise doesn't happen from time to time – it's in almost every review.
During the summer months, daytime temperatures in Harris usually hover between 13c and 17c, but on clear days it can feel much warmer. The ocean rarely exceeds 12c to 14c. This allows swimming to withstand, but is possible. We recommend wearing a wetsuit. You may see some locals immersed quickly, especially when the wind falls.
Many of the islands are significantly quieter, especially outside the seasons from late autumn to early spring. Some accommodations will close in the winter, with ferry schedules slightly diminishing, but beaches are accessible. For those who love wild weather, the offseason brings a different kind of beauty.
Cornwall and Devon offer warmer water and accessibility, but Harris is lonely, quiet, and has blue waters that you can see in this far north.
How to get to Luskentyre Beach
It takes a little effort to get to Harris, but that's not as difficult as it looks. Fly from Glasgow or Inverness to Stornoway Airport on Lewis Island, then drive south to Harris (Harris and Lewis share the same land, but are separated by the hills).
Alternatively, take the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway or Skye to Tarbert. The beach is located on the west coast of Harris and is often signed from the main road.
Where to stay
Harris offers a range of accommodation, ranging from coastal campsites to luxurious, self-equipped lodges. Salebost and Leverberg have attractive cottages, while Tarbert, the main village, has a guesthouse and a small hotel. Bookings in the future are wise, especially in the summer months.
Visiting beaches
While Luskentyre wins the crown, Harris and Lewis have several beaches.
Seirebost Beach: Just south of Laskentiel, this small beach offers equally clear water and beautiful views to Taransai. Hueysinis Beach is far away and has a campsite nearby. Perfect for wild camping and starry sky.
What to see on Harris Island?
Visit Tarbert's Harris Distillery Island and stills known as “The Dotach” to learn how local plants can be used to create flagship gin. There are tours, tastings and a cozy Pete Fire-style lounge.
Visit Tarbert's Harris Tweed outlet and make sure the fabric is still hand woven.
Walk along the Northern Harris Hills for beautiful views of the island and out into the Atlantic Ocean.
Explore nearby Salebost Beach.
Take a boat trip to St Kilda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with dramatic sea cliffs and seabird colonies.
Check out the Golden Eagles in their own special skin to watch the birds.
Go kayak, coast, valley scramble, rock climbing, mountain biking at the Scaladale Centre
