When you think of golden sands and turquoise waves lapping the shore, Scotland may not be the first place that comes to mind.
But we have an almost endless supply of beautiful beaches – including many which could easily be mistaken for a spot in the Caribbean. (It might be a wee bit colder, mind.)
We asked readers on our Facebook page the best beach they had been to in Scotland. This is what they said.
We asked readers on our Facebook page the best beach they had been to in Scotland. This is what they said.
. Montrose
This beautiful beach can be found on the East coast of Scotland in the Angus council area. Its golden sands stretch for three miles and it has views of Scurdieness Lighthouse. Photo: Ken Patterson
. Sandwood Bay
This bay in Sutherland has a reputation as the most beautiful beach in Britain. Described as "wild and spectacular", it is backed by huge sand dunes and a loch. Photo: Glenn Spinks
. Fraserburgh beach
This stunning beach has a Green Coast Award and a Marine Conservation Society Recommendation - yes, it has dolphins. The local tourism board calls it a "wonderful place to walk and stop and breathe in a touch of Scottish heaven". Photo: Celia Gerrard Douglas
5. Achmelvich Bay
"Spent many a family holiday here, beautiful," said one reader about this corner of paradise near Lochinver, which is a popular spot along the North Coast 500 route. There have been numerous sightings of porpoises, dolphins, and the occasional minke whale, here. Photo: Ruth Robson
6. Mellon Udrigle beach
Gaze at distant Highland mountains across Gruinard Bay from this spectacular beach, with its fine silver sands, gentle dunes, and crystal clear waters. It is a hidden gem in Wester Ross, in the north west of Scotland. Photo: Getty Images for Canva Pro
7. The Silver Sands of Morar
"Unbelievably beautiful - miles of silver sands and turquoise blue clear seas," said one reader of this string of beaches from Arisaig to Morar , "we came round a corner that was the view that hit us. If was like a dream. I hope it is able to stay un-spoilt for ever." Photo: Getty
8. Calgary Bay
This bay is an expanse of white shell sand with a meadow where small flowers grow in the summer. It can be found on the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides. Photo: Getty