Navigating the NC500 with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities
The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s answer to Route 66 - a breathtaking road trip that winds through some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK. For campervan and motorhome families, the NC500 offers an unforgettable adventure packed with scenic drives, incredible wildlife and plenty of child-friendly activities.
While there are endless resources detailing routes and complete itineraries, this guide focuses on the best family-friendly experiences along the NC500. Whether you're looking for the perfect campsite, a beach day your kids will love, or must-visit attractions, we've got you covered.
Family-Friendly Campsites on the NC500
A comfortable and well-located campsite can make all the difference when travelling the NC500 with children. Here are some of our top recommendations:
Location: Fortrose, Highland, IV10 8SE
This peaceful campsite boasts stunning shoreline pitches overlooking the sea, offering incredible views and even the chance to spot seals! Kids will love exploring the rock pools at low tide, and the site's proximity to Chanonry Point makes it a prime spot for dolphin spotting. The facilities include clean toilets, a small kitchen and a laundry area, making it a practical stop for campervan and motorhome travellers.
For more NC500 campsite recommendations, check out The Ultimate Guide to Family Camping on the NC500: Top 10 Sites Revealed.
Location: Clachtoll, Lochinver, Sutherland, IV27 4JD
The journey to Clachtoll Beach Campsite via the B869 road is an adventure in itself! This family-friendly campsite sits next to the spectacular white-sand Clachtoll Beach, perfect for sandcastle building and paddling. The site has a welcoming community feel, with communal outdoor areas, a fire pit, and even an eco-friendly shop.
Location: Gairloch, Wester Ross, IV21 2DL
With breathtaking views across to the Isle of Skye, Sands Caravan & Camping is an ideal base for exploring the West Coast. The vast, dune-backed campsite allows for plenty of space, making it feel like wild camping, but with all the necessary amenities. Facilities include a shop, laundry, dog wash, and even an on-site restaurant. A short walk leads to Gairloch Beach, a must-visit for seashell hunting!
For a broader list of top family-friendly campsites across Scotland, check out 10 of the Best Family-Friendly Campsites in Scotland.
Buy your Google Map guide to the NC500 here or comprehensive Travel Guide here. They include:
Campsite recommendations, overnight parking/ community wild camping spots, chemical disposal points, must see attractions and towns, beaches, hikes, food and drink recommendations, driving routes and blog post links.
What are the Best Family Beaches on the NC500?
Scotland’s North Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here are a few of our family favorites:
Farr Beach (Bettyhill)
A little off the beaten path, Farr Beach is an unspoiled paradise with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The short walk to access it keeps the crowds away, making it a peaceful spot for a family picnic. If you time your visit right, the sunsets here are unforgettable!
Balnakeil Bay (Durness)
Balnakeil Bay is a massive expanse of white sand, perfect for an afternoon of exploring caves and climbing rocks. The scenery is truly spectacular, and it’s a fantastic place for kids to run wild and embrace adventure.
A popular stop along the NC500, Durness Beach features striking rock formations and rolling waves that are great for surfing. We stayed at Sango Sands Campsite, which offers convenient beach access, although the site itself wasn't our favourite. You can read our full review here.
Gairloch Beach (Gairloch)
This quiet and picturesque beach is a great place for younger kids to search for tiny, colorful seashells. If you're looking for a peaceful, family-friendly spot, this is a gem!
For an island adventure beyond the NC500, consider a detour to the Isle of Harris and Lewis, where you'll find even more stunning beaches.
What are the best family friendly must see places on the NC500 route?
As the northernmost point of mainland Britain, Dunnet Head is a fantastic stop to teach children a bit of geography. The cliffs are home to an array of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. On a clear day, you can even spot the Orkney Islands! For more detailed information about Orkney, check out of blog post Why the Isle of Orkney is a Hidden Gem for NC500 Campervan Families: A Stunning Alternative to Skye
Smoo Cave (Durness)
A visit to Smoo Cave is a must! This dramatic sea cave, with its impressive waterfall chamber, is a hit with kids who love exploring. There are a lot of steps, so be prepared for a little adventure. To avoid crowds, try visiting early in the morning. Check out our video experience here.
Chanonry Point (Black Isle)
For one of the best dolphin-watching spots in Scotland, head to Chanonry Point. The best time to see these playful creatures is during an incoming tide. We were lucky to see them up close on a blustery day, and it was pure magic!
Golden Eagle Zip Line (Ceannabeinne Beach)
For thrill-seeking families, the Golden Eagle Zip Line is a must! Soar 37 meters above Ceannabeinne Beach, taking in incredible views as you zip at speeds of up to 45 kph. No age limits apply, but kids must weigh at least 20kg.
Dolphin Spirit Boat Tour (Inverness)
At least one boat trip is a must on the NC500, and we opted for a family-friendly Dolphin Spirit boat tour in Inverness. This fantastic experience gave us the chance to learn about the rich marine life of the Moray Firth while keeping an eye out for otters, seals, and, of course, dolphins! The tour is both family- and dog-friendly, making it a perfect activity for those travelling with children. Our guide was full of fascinating knowledge, and although we weren’t lucky enough to spot all the wildlife on this trip, it was still an unforgettable experience. Inverness is a fantastic stop on the NC500, with plenty more to see and do - making it well worth adding to your itinerary!
If you're looking to extend your NC500 adventure, consider visiting the Isle of Orkney, a hidden gem that offers a quieter, family-friendly alternative to the popular Isle of Skye.
Final Thoughts
Travelling the NC500 with children in a campervan, or motorhome is an experience like no other. By planning shorter driving days and incorporating plenty of fun activities, you'll create lasting memories for the whole family. We loved our time on the NC500 and we hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure!
Have you done the NC500 with kids? We'd love to hear your favourite stops! Let us know in the comments or over on Instagram at @van_life_family_.
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Safe travels and happy adventuring!
