Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
beige
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
290 m
Frequently asked questions
An Corran Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity high, average temperature +12.0°C, warms up to +16.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
An Corran Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
An Corran Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
An Corran Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — beige. Texture — fine. Beach length — 290 metres.
An Corran Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in July, August. It ends in August. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
An Corran Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
An Corran Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish, crabs. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
An Corran Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
An Corran Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
An Corran Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Staffin Community Café. Cuisines available: Scottish. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
An Corran Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Warm clothes, Water shoes, Cash, Windbreaker, Camera.
An Corran Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is low tide, when the dinosaur footprints are visible. Fewer people in the morning.
An Corran Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Touching dinosaur footprints is prohibited. Dogs must be on a lead. Take your rubbish with you.
An Corran Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
An Corran Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for nature and history lovers. Suitable for walks and searching for dinosaur footprints. Not suitable for swimming due to cold water.
An Corran Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Fossilised footprints of ornithopod dinosaurs, 170 million years old, visible at low tide. One of the few places in the world where you can "walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs".
An Corran Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Unique dinosaur footprints, Scenic beach with views of the Quiraing, Calm atmosphere, Free entry, Free parking, Opportunity to see seabirds and seals. Cons: No infrastructure: no toilets or cafes, Cold water, Footprints visible only at low tide, Limited parking, Rocky sections, slippery seaweed.
An Corran Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Quiraing, Staffin Museum, Old Man of Storr. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
An Corran Beach: how do I get to the city of Portree?
The beach is located near the city of Portree. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Portree.