Outer Hebrides
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Positives
- Powerful and consistent
- Beach and pointbreaks
- Clean water, no crowds
- Long summer daylight hours
- Northern Lights
Negatives
- High latitude wind exposure
- Cold water
- Large tides
- Changeable, wet weather
- Remote, difficult access
Outer Hebrides surf travel guide
The Outer Hebrides, or Western Isles, sit a mere 28mi (45km) off the NW tip of Scotland and receive the brunt of the Atlantic’s force through a helpful 180º swell window. The short continental shelf adds to the power of the waves and strong currents are the norm. A good range of beaches, points and reefs are surfed by the small, committed and knowledgable group of local surfers who get to surf until midnight on midsummer days.
Surf spots in Outer Hebrides
Research the 15 surf breaks in Outer Hebrides and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 15 breaks in Outer Hebrides.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Outer Hebrides
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- apr
- may
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- aug
- sep
- oct
- nov
- dec
Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 3,400,000
- Population
- 5,454,000
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- GBP
- Exchange rate
- $1 = £0.7 GBP
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +44
- Dialing out
- 00
- Emergencies
- 112
- Language
- English, Scots, Scottish Gaelic.
Electricity
- Plug Type
- g
Visas
Since Brexit, unrestricted travel between the UK and the EU is over. The current system allows for visa free travel for up to 90/180 days a year. Beyond 90 days things get very complicated so check online for the details. US, Canada, OZ, NZ and some others follow the same 90-180 day rules. Most other countries need a visa before arrival. more info here
Getting There
Outer Hebrides - No visa required. Daily flights with BA (from $300 r/t from London) to Glasgow (GLA) or Inverness (INV) to Stornoway (SYY). BA no longer carry surfboards. CalMac run car ferries from Ullapool to Stornoway (2h40 o/w, $30/pax; $250/car r/t). Long vehicles and vans cost more. Book in advance if driving. Bus from Inverness-Ullapool is $22 r/t.
Getting Around
Outer Hebrides - Lewis Car Rental charges $320/wk for group A. Lots of car ferry options to get there and travel between islands, adding to the driving costs. Stornoway is 45min from Tarbert. Driving is very relaxing and enjoyable with a good road network and little traffic out of Stornoway. All place names and direction signs are in Gaelic.
Accommodation
Fairhaven is Hebridean Surf’s central Stornoway accommodation fr $30/p/n. Galson Farm Bunkhouse is $28/p/n or stay in the Guest House (fr $65/p/dbl). Cnip campsite is near Cliff or wild camp with permission away from homes. Outer Hebrides Campervan Hire in Stornoway. Expect to pay $25 for a good meal in a pub.
Activities
Watch whales, orcas and Risso dolphins, which are most sociable from Aug-Oct. Numerous lochs to fish salmon or trout. Great for diving, canoeing, sailing, mountain biking, climbing or coasteering. Don’t miss the 5,000 yr old standing Stones of Calanais or The Broch at Carloway, a mere 2000 years old. Autumn Aurora Borealis can be seen.
Hazards & hassles
Powerful waves, rips, winds, rocks and isolation can increase the fear factor. No dangerous animals. Stay warm and dry - bring appropriate clothing.
Handy Hints
Derek Macleod’s Hebridean Surf shop at The Welcome In Filling Station in Lower Barvas sells and rents essential equipment with full surf school. Surf Lewis do lessons, board and SUP rental. Sunday is rest day, no transport. All place names and direction signs are in Gaelic.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.