Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 600 m
Tips
What to bring, best time, local rules
What to Bring
SPF50+ cream
Water
Towel
Swimsuit
Flip-flops
Cash
Warm clothing
Best Time to Swim
The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is mildest. The beach is ideal for watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Local Rules
The beach is located on farmland and an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). Visitors must stick to marked routes and not disturb livestock.
Frequently asked questions
Sands of Breckon: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +10.0°C, warms up to +14.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Sands of Breckon: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.0 m.
Sands of Breckon: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable.
Sands of Breckon: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — powdery. Beach length — 1 600 metres.
Sands of Breckon: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. 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.
Sands of Breckon: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Sands of Breckon: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Sands of Breckon: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Sands of Breckon: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Warm clothing.
Sands of Breckon: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is mildest. The beach is ideal for watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Sands of Breckon: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
The beach is located on farmland and an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). Visitors must stick to marked routes and not disturb livestock.
Sands of Breckon: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking solitude, prepared for cool water and lack of infrastructure. Not suitable for families with small children or those seeking comfort and entertainment.
Sands of Breckon: what makes this beach unique?
The largest area of shell sand dunes and dune grassland in Shetland. In 2024 it was ranked the third best beach in the world by Condé Nast Traveller. Traces of Viking and pre-Viking settlements have been found nearby.
Sands of Breckon: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White powdery sand, Crystal-clear turquoise water, Scenic dunes, Secluded location, Sunset watching over the Atlantic, Free parking. Cons: No infrastructure, No toilets or cafes, Cool water even in summer, Steep access to the beach, Far from major towns.
Sands of Breckon: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: North Yell Cliffs, Gloup Voe, Cullivoe Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Sands of Breckon: how do I get to the city of Lerwick?
The beach is located near the city of Lerwick. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Lerwick.