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
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
400 m
Frequently asked questions
West Sandwick Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +9.0°C, warms up to +11.9°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
West Sandwick 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.
West Sandwick 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. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
West Sandwick Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 400 metres.
West Sandwick Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in July, August. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
West Sandwick Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. There are no rip currents — swimming is safe. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
West Sandwick Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
West Sandwick Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
West Sandwick Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: The Bay Brasserie, Pete-s Cafe & Takeaway, The Waterfront Bar & Grill. Cuisines available: Scottish. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
West Sandwick Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Warm clothing, Towel, Windbreaker, Thermos, Binoculars.
West Sandwick Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best time is from July to September. In the morning the water is calmer and there are more birds. Seals are most active in the morning.
West Sandwick Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dog walking is allowed year-round. Littering and open fires are prohibited. Swimming at your own risk.
West Sandwick Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
West Sandwick Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for wildlife lovers, secluded holidays and birdwatching. Suitable for walks and nature picnics. Not suitable for those seeking active infrastructure.
West Sandwick Beach: what makes this beach unique?
West Sandwick Beach is one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the Shetland Islands. It has been awarded the Seaside Award for 16 consecutive years. Rare sedge Carex maritima grows here and red-throated divers inhabit the area.
West Sandwick Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand, Crystal-clear water, Secluded location, Scenic dunes, Seaside Award, Free parking, Suitable for kayaking and windsurfing. Cons: Very cold water, No lifeguards, No infrastructure, No cafe, Requires transport from Lerwick.
West Sandwick Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Shetland Islands, Lerwick, Broch of Clickimin. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
West Sandwick 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.