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
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
500 m
Frequently asked questions
Sumburgh Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal clear, average temperature +11.0°C, warms up to +13.0°C in the warmest season. The water is so clear that the bottom is visible even at depth — ideal for snorkelling. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Sumburgh Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.5 m.
Sumburgh Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 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.
Sumburgh Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 500 metres.
Sumburgh Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. 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.
Sumburgh 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.
Sumburgh Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Seals (may bite), Midges (in summer). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Sumburgh Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Sumburgh Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Sumburgh Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Sumburgh Hotel, Sumburgh Airport Cafe. Cuisines available: Scottish. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Sumburgh Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, Water, Wetsuit, Binoculars.
Sumburgh Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In summer the water is very cold, swimming only possible in a wetsuit. Morning water is calmer and fewer people.
Sumburgh Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave litter. Respect wildlife and archaeological sites. Dogs must be kept under control.
Sumburgh Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for seekers of solitude, wildlife and archaeology enthusiasts. The beach offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Shetland. Not suitable for those seeking warm water and developed infrastructure.
Sumburgh Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Crescent-shaped white sand beach with turquoise water, backed by steep dunes. Nearby are the archaeological sites of Jarlshof (Viking settlement) and Old Scatness (Iron Age broch), as well as Sumburgh Head Lighthouse with puffin colonies.
Sumburgh Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand beach, Turquoise water, Scenic dunes with marram grass, Nearby archaeological sites Jarlshof and Old Scatness, Puffin and seabird watching, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse (1821), Free parking. Cons: Remote location at the southern tip of Shetland, Can be windy, Limited infrastructure, No lifeguards, Water is very cold even in summer, Midges and mosquitoes in summer.
Sumburgh Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Jarlshof, Old Scatness, Sumburgh Head. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Sumburgh Beach: 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.