Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
rock
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
steep
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
5 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
rock
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
mandatory
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
5 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity high, average temperature +11.0°C, warms up to +14.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 2.0 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — steep. The shallow area extends for 5 metres from the shore. Bottom — rock. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The steep entry requires extra care, especially with children.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — rock. Sand colour — grey. Texture — coarse. Beach length — 5 000 metres.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in August. The best month for a holiday is June. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: 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.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: steep cliffs, strong winds. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Ferry Inn, The Hamnavoe Restaurant, Julia's Bistro. Cuisines available: Scottish, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Comfortable shoes, Headwear, Camera, Cash.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best time to visit is morning or evening. Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and rocks.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is not recommended. Exercise caution near cliff edges. Do not leave litter.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for hikers and photographers seeking dramatic landscapes. Not suitable for families with small children or swimming.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The Yesnaby cliffs are composed of Old Red Sandstone and include the famous Yesnaby Castle sea stack, and are also one of the few places in the world where Primula scotica grows.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Impressive cliff scenery, Sea stacks and blowholes, Birdwatching, Solitude, Free entry, Scenic sunsets. Cons: No infrastructure, Dangerous for children and pets, Steep cliffs, Strong winds, No toilets.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Yesnaby Castle, Skara Brae. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Yesnaby Cliffs Beach: how do I get to the city of Stromness?
The beach is located near the city of Stromness. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Stromness.