Dalmore beach, also known as Traigh Dhail Mhor, is located on the exposed northeast coast of the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. It’s a long, unspoilt beach backed by grassy dunes and rocky cliffs.
The beach overlooks the Atlantic, and, particularly when the winds are strong, bears the full brunt of the ocean’s swell creating ideal conditions for surfing. Despite this, because of the Gulf Stream, the water doesn’t get as cold as you might think.
Due to a well-formed beachbreak, it has a consistent surf which works at any time of the year, although the best time to visit is during spring. However, its prone to rip currents so caution is advised, and at times the surf is only for the more experienced.
The sand is ideal for building sandcastles and with a picnic and BBQ area it’s a great place to spend a day with family or friends. Although little ones will enjoy going for a paddle, swimming is not recommended. There are also a few rockpools to poke about in.
Whales and dolphins can sometimes be spotted off the coast and there are plenty of seabirds including gannets and cormorants fishing in the water.
At the northern end of the beach are a couple of sea stacks, which make an excellent backdrop for photographs.
In 2016, a 17,000-tonne oil rig ran aground and came ashore on the beach at Dalmore. The decommissioned Transocean Winner became detached from its tug when being towed to Malta. The rig was eventually refloated and sent on its way, but not after leaking thousands of litres of diesel into the sea.
Behind the beach are two cemeteries, one of which holds 18 Commonwealth war graves. Here you’ll also find a car park and toilets. Access to the beach is via a stone staircase from the commonwealth cemetery.
