When you think of Scotland, white sand beaches probably don’t spring to mind. But there is one beach nestled on a remote island that is so gorgeous it’s been compared to the paradises of  Australia and the Caribbean.

Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris is famous for its sparkling clear turquoise waters which gives the beach a tropical appearance despite being in Scotland.

It also has pristine white sand which creates a striking contrast against the water. 

This gorgeous stretch of coastline has been compared to the Caribbean, the Maldives and the world-famous Whitsundays in Australia. 

It’s perfect for a peaceful wander and there are several hiking and cycling trails surrounding the area for the more active minded

Clisham mountain offers the thrill of summiting the highest peak in the Outer Hebrides, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the island’s stunning scenery.

Despite its fame, this beach is almost always devoid of people. You can walk for miles and rarely will see another soul.

Visitors to the beach are astounded by its beauty with one man writing on Tripadvisor: “Luskentyre beach is the most stunning beach I have ever visited, which is saying something, as I am in my seventieth year.

“When I first saw it my breath was literally taken away. It has beautiful sand and is never crowded. The sea is crystal clear and there are views across to Taransay.”

Another person asked themselves: “Am I in the Caribbean?

 “What an amazingly gorgeous beach. The sand is in its purest form and the water as blue as can be. The fact there were not many people there when we went made for such a dramatic sight.

“We walked and walked just admiring how clean and beautiful the beach is.”

To get to this slice of heaven, you can take a ferry from the Scottish mainland. Alternatively, flying to the Outer Hebrides is possible from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness.