Watersports in Scotland

Water can have a calming effect on the body and the mind. From the sound of waves gently lapping against the side of your kayak to the feeling of weightlessness as you swim in a serene Scottish loch, these watersports are ideal for anyone looking to slow down and immerse themselves in Scotland's nature – of course, you can also turn many of these into a real adventure!

Canoeing & kayaking

In Scotland you will come across a variety of kayaking and canoeing experiences. Float across the calm surface of a serene loch or join a guided tour to paddle past impressive cliffs with seabirds soaring overhead. If you're a complete beginner or still trying to find your sea legs, not to worry. There are many opportunities to try out kayaking lessons or even venture on a kayaking course to get you up to speed.

Where to go kayaking & canoeing: Inverness, the River Tay, Loch Morlich, Loch Lomond and Shetland.

Sailing

If you have always dreamed of navigating your way around distant isles and canals, gliding gracefully across a misty loch, or journeying around Scotland's west coast to discover our welcoming islands, a sailing holiday in Scotland is for you. Boat hire in Scotland couldn't be easier too, with spacious harbours and anchorages dotted across the country.

Where to go sailing: Argyll & Bute, East Coast, the Firth of Clyde, Orkney and Shetland, Skye, the Outer Hebrides and on canals.

Stand-up paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding, often shortened to SUP, is one of the UK’s fastest growing watersports and a great activity for escaping the everyday. While your first attempts may be wobbly, you’ll soon find your balance and a sense of calm as you take in the landscape around you. Your reward is seeing Scotland from a whole new perspective. Some of the best places to try SUP are on loch shores, gentle rivers, and quiet coastal coves.

Where to try stand-up paddleboarding: Perthshire, Oban, Fort William, St Andrews, and Loch Lomond.

Wild swimming 

A refreshing swim in nature can add an extra special element to your day in Scotland. Feel your body adjust to the calming water surrounding you and enjoy the rush of endorphins as you take a cool dip in one of our sparkling lochs or crisp seas. Along the way, soak up the incredible backdrops and surroundings. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes and a hot drink to help you warm up afterwards!

Explore wild swimming locations in Scotland

There are few activities that offer as much of an adrenaline kick as these exhilarating watersports. Race down foaming white rapids, hold your breath as a gurgling river carries you down a natural flume or enjoy the feeling of freedom as a mighty waves carries you towards the coast.

Surfing & windsurfing

Surf’s up in Scotland, where golden sandy beaches, long coastlines, and beautiful clear waters add up to one of Europe's top surfing destinations. Feel your adrenaline surge with each wave rolling towards the coast and experience the power of nature for an unforgettable day on the water. Surrounded by Atlantic and North Sea swells throughout the year, you are guaranteed to catch some great waves in Scotland.

Where to go surfing: Outer Hebrides, Isle of Islay, Thurso, Belhaven Bay, Coldingham Bay, and Isle of Tiree.

Canyoning, gorge walking & coasteering

Abseiling down sheer cliff edges with waterfalls tumbling overhead, leaping from rock ledges into natural pools, exploring shorelines without a boat; canyoning, gorge walking and coasteering in Scotland are three of the most exhilarating activities you can experience. Put on a wetsuit and follow expert guides to experience some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes like never before.

Where to try canyoning, gorge walking & coasteering: Perthshire, Fort William, Fort Augustus, Oban, Aviemore, and Loch Lomond.

White water rafting

With awesome rivers, drops and rapids, Scotland offers the most thrilling white water rafting in Britain. Hold on tight as the inflatable raft winds around rocks and down roaring waterfalls, safely guided by experienced instructors. Rafting can be enjoyed all year round in Scotland and there are fantastic opportunities for both first-time rafters and adrenaline junkies.

Where to go white water rafting: River Findhorn in Moray Speyside and River Tummel, River Tay, and River Garry in Perthshire.