Waulkmill Bay is one of the Orkney mainland's most spectacular beaches, with a huge expanse of golden sand at low tide. The calm, shallow waters of Waulkmill Bay mean that you can paddle safely in the sea here. On a hot day, why not join your dog for a dip?
- By The Beach
- Children Welcome
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Swimming
Good to know
Overview
If your dog loves the beach, you need to add a trip to Waulkmill Bay to your bucket list.
One of the largest beaches in the Orkney Islands, at high tide you could be forgiven for thinking that Waulkmill Bay is nothing special. However, time it right with a visit at low tide and you’ll be rewarded with a huge expanse of pristine sand – and you’ll probably find no more than an handful of other people there, at most.
The calm, shallow waters of Waulkmill Bay mean that you can paddle safely in the sea here. On a hot day, it’s definitely worth packing a towel and joining your dog for a dip.
Waulkmill Bay is a nature hotspot, with dozens of different birds making their home on the coast here and in the neighbouring salt marsh. The real stars of the show though are the Orcas who are periodically spotted off-shore around Orkney’s coast – including, from time to time, at Waulkmill.
For The Dogs
Bring leads, water, poo bags, treats and towels.
Opening Hours
Daylight hours are recommended – or time your visit with sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views.
Parking
There is roadside parking near the bay. The nearest postcode is KW17 2RA.
The Area
Orkney is a must visit for history lovers. With more ancient sites than you can shake a stick at, including the best preserved Neolithic settlement in Western Europe at Skara Brae, you could spend weeks working your way through everything Orkney has to offer. The best part is, most sites allow dogs to visit too. Scotland’s best preserved Iron Age broch village, the Broch of Gurness isn’t part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney – which means it escapes the crowds, but still offers oodles of fascinating history.
For more walks, pubs and places to stay, see our guide to dog friendly Scotland.
