Exotic sands

St Ninian's Isle Tombolo

Bigton, Shetland · 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

NotableEurope

A white shell-sand causeway, Britain's largest active tombolo, leads to the isle where a Pictish treasure hoard was dug up.

In season the water at St Ninian's Isle Tombolo (Bigton, Shetland, United Kingdom) reaches about 13°C. Best months: May-Aug.

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Sea temperature: ~13°C in the warm season
Water: Cold, glass-clear North Atlantic
Sand: A double-curved bar of brilliant white shell sand with sea on both sides
Swimming: Bracing even in high summer; pick the sheltered side of the bar
Best time to visit: May-Aug
Setting: A 500 m ayre linking Mainland Shetland to a grassy isle with a ruined medieval chapel
Beach type: Exotic sands
Region: Europe

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St Ninian's Isle Tombolo: frequently asked questions

Where is St Ninian's Isle Tombolo?

St Ninian's Isle Tombolo is at Bigton, on the coast of United Kingdom.

What is the sea temperature at St Ninian's Isle Tombolo?

In the warm season the sea at St Ninian's Isle Tombolo reaches about 13°C. Cold, glass-clear North Atlantic.

When is the best time to visit St Ninian's Isle Tombolo?

The best time to visit St Ninian's Isle Tombolo is May-Aug. Europe's beach season peaks in July and August, with June and September quieter and cheaper.

What kind of sand does St Ninian's Isle Tombolo have?

St Ninian's Isle Tombolo has a double-curved bar of brilliant white shell sand with sea on both sides.

Is St Ninian's Isle Tombolo good for swimming?

Bracing even in high summer; pick the sheltered side of the bar.

Photo: Gordon Hatton (CC BY-SA 2.0) · source