8 beaches on the Isles of Scilly that will make you reconsider going abroad
Like the Caribbean but closer!
Home to more than 35 paradise beaches scattered across the archipelago, the Isles of Scilly is one of Britain's real treasures.
Proving that there's no need to catch a flight to experience turquoise waters, powder-soft sands and a milder climate, the Isles of Scilly are like nowhere else in England.
They're just a short ferry ride from the coast of Cornwall, with the likes of Tresco, Bryher, St Martin's and St Mary's attracting visitors to their sun-kissed beaches every summer.
Of course, there's more to the islands than their beaches (abundant wildlife, exotic gardens and plenty of scenic spots for walking) but they're not a bad place to start.
While there's still uncertainty about holidays abroad, we're happy to dream about the places we'd rather be and the Isles of Scilly are high on our list.
Here are some of the most stunning beaches in the Isles of Scilly...
Country Living has an exclusive tour of the Isles of Scilly where you'll hear from the head of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, Julian Branscombe, who'll give a talk to explain the trust's work and give you an insight into the Isles' native wildlife. Look forward to a wildlife-spotting boat trip, a visit to Tresco Abbey Garden, and time to check out the glorious beaches.
Pentle Bay, Tresco
This romantic stretch on the eastern coast of Tresco has been named one of Britain's (and the world's) most beautiful beaches countless times. Its sand dunes and turquoise waters make Pentle Bay a must-see.
The Bar, St Agnes
A sandy stretch linking the islands of St Agnes and Gugh, the Bar is covered by the sea at high tide. It stands out from other beaches in Scilly for its two sides - one facing the harbour and the other looking south.
Higher Town Bay, St Martin's
A long and sandy scallop-shaped beach, Higher Town is backed by beautiful dunes. Inter-island boats land here and it's a dog-friendly option for beach lovers.
Rushy Bay, Bryher
With its azure waters and view over to the uninhabited isle of Samson, Rushy Bay is just the spot to lay out your towel and soak up the sandy surroundings.
Appletree Bay, Tresco
Another of the most stunning beaches in Scilly, Appletree offers over half a mile of soft sand. Its clear waters stretch to the warm, shallow waters of the Tresco flats, making it a great spot for paddling and snorkelling.
Porthcressa Beach, St Mary's
Even the beaches in the capital of the islands Hugh Town are a delight. Porthcressa has fine sand and is backed by a promenade, with a cafe and toilets. It's one of the most family-friendly beaches in the Isles of Scilly.
Porthmellon Beach, St Mary's
With views across Tresco and Samson, Porthmellon Beach has all the white sand you expect on the Isles of Scilly. When the tide is out, there are rockpools to explore.
Old Grimsby Beach, Tresco
A great beach for watersports action, Old Grimsby is one of the loveliest beaches on Tresco. Grab a kayak and explore the turquoise waters of the dune-backed beach. You'll want to stop at beach cafe The Ruin for a bite to eat too.
Country Living has an exclusive tour of the Isles of Scilly, taking in Tresco, Bryher, St Martin's and more as you explore the gardens and wildlife and hear from the head of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, Julian Branscombe.
Roshina is a contributing editor to Hearst UK. She was previously Senior Travel Editor, where she covered titles including Country Living, Red, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar and Good Housekeeping.
When she's not scoping out the next destinations we should explore (Uzbekistan, the Austrian Alps, Tbilisi), she loves revisiting old favourites (Mauritius, the Dolomites, Istanbul) and spending summer in the mountains - especially when hiking or wrapped in a spa robe.
The chic Dorset stay redefining seaside breaks
Is this town in East Sussex the new Margate?
Medieval city wins UK's best place to live 2026
The best hotels in Wales
