Sutherland

10 Surf spots
families beginners
  • j
  • f
  • m
  • a
  • m
  • j
  • j
  • a
  • s
  • o
  • n
  • d
Positives
  • Uncrowded or empty waves
  • North swells and SW winds
  • Midsummer midnight surfing
  • Fantastic Highland scenery
Negatives
  • Tidally sensitive reefs and rivermouths
  • Very cold, wet and windy conditions
  • Few facilities
  • Slow, narrow coast road

Sutherland surf travel guide

The Scottish Highlands sprawl across the NW corner of the country and some of the most stunning scenery anywhere can be found in the underpopulated county of Sutherland. Raw, wild, ancient mountains soak their toes in the equally raw, wild North Atlantic that hurls itself onto the Pre-Cambrian cliffs on 3 distinct coasts. It lacks the flat reefs and famous spots of neighbouring Caithness, but has a number of rivermouth and beachbreak set-ups right along the slow, twisting north coast road.

Surf spots in Sutherland

Research the 10 surf breaks in Sutherland and discover what spots suit the current conditions.

Break lowdown

We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 10 breaks in Sutherland.

scroll / drag

When to go

Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Sutherland

  • jan
  • feb
  • mar
  • apr
  • may
  • jun
  • jul
  • 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 Around

The North Coast 500 meanders along the whole Sutherland coastline and is one of the best roads you'll ever cruise along. It's 1.30 hours from Melvich to Sango Bay and if you're planning to explore from Thurso it'll take about 30 minutes to reach Melvich. Petrol stations are not abundant so fill up before any longer journeys. Prices are around $2 a litre.

Accommodation

Options are sparse along the Sutherland coastline and in the summer season can get booked out. Surf season is better but best to book in advance. Camping and camper vans are good options with various campsites along the coast.

Activities
cultureoutdoorurbanwatersports

Never miss an update

Sign up to our newsletter and get a weekly digest