Exploring Tiree: 10 of the Best Family-Friendly Things to do.
Nestled in the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Tiree is a hidden treasure known for its tranquil beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. Often overshadowed by its more famous and slightly larger neighbours, Tiree is a small island with a very big heart. Its landscape is a stunning blend of white sandy beaches, rolling machair (fertile grassy plains) and dramatic coastal views. Visit Tiree if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and instead replace it with a gentle rhythm of island living. Despite its compact size, Tiree offers a wealth of activities for families seeking both adventure and relaxation. Here are 10 of the best things to do with your family on this serene Scottish isle.
Beach days: Tiree is renowned for its pristine beaches; Gott Bay, Balevullin and Balephuil are some of the most family-friendly. With shallow waters and expansive sandy shores, they are perfect for a day of paddling, sandcastle building and picnics.
Cycle around the island: With its flat terrain and quiet roads, Tiree is ideal for cycling. You can take your own, or hire bikes from Blackhouse Watersports or Tiree Fitness. Explore the island at your own pace, discovering hidden beaches and breathtaking views.
Wildlife watching: Tiree is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Take the family on a nature walk to spot a variety of bird species, seals and even the occasional basking shark in the surrounding waters. Alternatively, book onto Sea Safari with Tiree Sea Tours, or enjoy one of their sea fishing trips.
Surfing and watersports: Tiree’s Atlantic-facing beaches make it a hotspot for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Lessons and equipment rentals are available for all skill levels and all the family, making it an exciting experience for all. Be sure to check out Blackhouse Watersports for surf and/or kite surfing lessons, or Wild Diamond for kayaking and windsurfing.
Tiree Music Festival: Plan your visit to coincide with this annual event and don’t miss the chance to enjoy live music in a stunning outdoor setting! This family-friendly festival features a range of performances, workshops and activities suitable for all ages. Be sure to book your ferry crossings and accommodation well in advance, because this tiny island is significantly busier during the music festival weekend.
Visit the Tiree Heritage Centre: Dive into the island's rich history and culture at this interesting museum. Exhibits include everything from ancient artifacts to insights into Tiree’s crofting and maritime past, providing a fascinating educational experience for children and adults alike.
Enjoy local cuisine: Savour fresh, locally sourced seafood, or perhaps enjoy a meal at the Reef Inn (open April - September). From Tiree lobster to the Reef pizza dough, everything is made freshly at the Reef Inn. The bar and restaurant is very relaxed and there is a family-friendly vibe where flip flops are part of the dress code!
Take a walk: Tiree is a true gem, offering plenty of interest for those who love to explore on foot. While the idyllic sandy beaches are the island’s main attractions, there are numerous scenic walks along Tiree's stunning coastline. Highlights include the ancient Ringing Stone, the impressive Dun Beag broch at Bhalla and the intriguing complex of signal station buildings at Hynish, which served as the base for Skerryvore Lighthouse. Please note that Tiree's landscape is primarily composed of crofting land, home to numerous grazing sheep and cattle and is also vital for ground-breeding birds. For this reason, dogs should be kept under close control at all times and on a short lead.
Visit a neighbouring island: The Isle of Coll is a short ferry journey away. Either Combine your trip to Tiree with a couple of nights on the Island of Coll, or at least for the day. Calmac operate a ferry once a day during the summer months.
Go beach combing: Enjoy wandering on one of Tiree’s many pristine shorelines and revel in a treasure trove of shells, sea glass and unique pottery.
Tiree’s natural beauty, rich history and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for a family getaway, especially from May to September. Whether you’re looking to relax on its sandy shores, delve into its cultural heritage, or embark on outdoor adventures, Tiree has something for everyone. So pack your campervan or motorhome and bring the family to discover the tranquil charm of this Scottish island gem.
If you're feeling anxious about travelling to this remote Scottish island, check out our detailed Travel Guide, which includes everything you need to know before visiting in your campervan or motorhome, provides a family-friendly itinerary and includes a Google Map to help you customise your Scottish road trip. Experience the best of campervan travel in Scotland with an unforgettable journey to Tiree.
