See & Do - Explore Tarbert, Campbeltown and the Kintyre Peninsula

Kintyre is a place to take your time. Follow the coast from Tarbert to Campbeltown and Southend, stopping for harbour views, sandy beaches, seafood and walks along the way. The Atlantic coast is known for its surf and wide open sands, while the quieter eastern shore looks across to Arran.

Whether you’re here for a family beach holiday, a walking break or a few days exploring by car, Kintyre has plenty to discover. Visit Campbeltown’s whisky distilleries, play a round of links golf at Machrihanish, or simply find a favourite stretch of coast and stay a while.

Six things to do in Kintyre

• Stroll around Tarbert’s harbour and climb to the castle ruins for views across Loch Fyne.
• Explore Skipness Castle, then stop for local seafood nearby.
• Walk a section of the Kintyre Way or follow the Kintyre 66 touring route.
• Spend a day at Westport Beach, popular for surfing, long walks and playing in the dunes.
• Visit Campbeltown for its harbour, independent shops and whisky distilleries.
• Discover the beaches around Southend and take in the views towards the Mull of Kintyre.

Campbeltown
Campbeltown is Kintyre’s main town and a useful place to pause between days out. Browse the shops, walk along the waterfront and discover the town’s whisky heritage with a distillery visit. From here, you can head west to Machrihanish or south towards Southend.

Machrihanish and Westport
On Kintyre’s Atlantic coast, Machrihanish is known for its links golf and broad sweep of sand. Nearby Westport Beach is a favourite for surfing, beach walks and sunsets. The bay also attracts experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers when conditions are right.

Southend and the Mull of Kintyre
At the southern end of the peninsula, Southend is surrounded by countryside and beautiful beaches, including Carskiey and the sands beside Dunaverty Rock. It’s a peaceful part of Kintyre for walking, beach days and time together away from the busier towns. The road towards the Mull of Kintyre leads to dramatic coastal scenery and far-reaching views.

Skipness and East Kintyre
The eastern coast has a quieter feel, with winding roads, small communities and views across the Kilbrannan Sound to Arran. At Skipness, explore the castle and shoreline before continuing south towards Carradale and Saddell. Carradale has a sandy beach and harbour, while Saddell Bay is a lovely spot for a coastal walk.

Isle of Gigha
For a day across the water, take the ferry from Tayinloan to the Isle of Gigha. This small island is a lovely place to explore at an easy pace, with beaches, coastal walks and views back towards Kintyre.