Sandside Bay

About Sandside Bay

Sandside Bay near Reay offers one of the more surreal views on the NC500 — the beach is genuinely lovely with soft pinkish-white sand and clear water, but the decommissioned Dounreay nuclear power station dominates the horizon to the east. Despite its unusual industrial backdrop, the beach is clean, safe for swimming, and often quiet. A memorable and unusual stop.

Highlights

Beautiful sheltered bay

Pink-tinged sand

Dounreay nuclear facility views

Good swimming

Sandside House historic building

🚐 Motorhome Tip Good car park accessible to motorhomes. Thurso is 8 miles east with all facilities. An unusual and memorable stop — Dounreay silhouetted at sunset makes for a remarkable photograph.

Getting There

On the A836 at Reay, between Melvich and Thurso. Turn north through the village to the beach car park.

Best Time to Visit

Year round. Sheltered enough to swim in good summer conditions.

Nearby Attractions

Map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Quick Facts

Region Caithness

Type 🏖️ Beach

Duration 1–2 hours

Admission 🆓 Free

For MH ✅ Friendly

NC500 Mile ~316

OS Grid NC 980 652

Directions Open in Google Maps →

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