Where? Southend, Kintyre

Only 13 miles from Ireland, Southend Beach in Kintyre is steeped in natural beauty and history. Whether you prefer sunbathing or surfing, there is something for every taste at Southend’s beautiful beaches, all without the crowds you might find at other spots. You can view oyster catchers, dolphins and the resident seal colony from Keil shore as well as Neolithic caves. Or, for the more adventurous, choose to hike on the nearby Kintyre Way, which has its terminus here. Dunaverty Castle overlooks Southend, and several important historical sites are nearby, including the ruins of Keil School and St. Ciaran’s Cave, which is said to hold relics of the Irish saint. Be sure to get a taste of the local seafood, served pier to plate- it doesn’t get any fresher!