Gairloch in the North West Highlands is as spectacular a place to SUP as they come, boasting white sand beaches, islands, incredible wildlife and views. Reached by stunning drive from the Highland’s capital, Inverness, Gairloch is a village spread out around several bays, from the Harbour and north to the Big Sands Caravan Park. All types of accommodation are available plus several pubs, eateries and galleries. The community run GALE Centre is a great first place to visit with local information, good food and amazing views.
Depending on conditions, there are several places to Paddleboard, the one thing that unites them is incredible views. The busy Harbour can offer the best sheltered paddleboarding, especially from Mid to High Tide. Just north on the coastal road, parking near the golf course, you come to Gairloch main beach. This offers incredible white sands and clear blue waters. Several rock escarpments and coves can be explored from here.
North again comes Big Sands Beach, next to the caravan park of the same name. As the name suggests, there are plenty of white sands to admire and stunning vistas. Offshore is Longa Island, with the requisite experience and conditions at hand this can be an amazing day trip out to it.
Wildlife abounds with dolphin sightings likely and a chance of spotting whales, several whale watching companies are based in Gairloch.