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Image: Baleshare beach in North Uist
Outer Hebrides
The Outer Hebrides is a group of islands that sit off the west coast of Scotland, each with its own unique way of life. The Hebridean islands offer wild Atlantic waves, diverse wildlife and vibrant Gaelic culture. Its powder white beaches are world-renowned, with some even featured on Condé Nast Traveller's recent list of Best Beaches in the World. National Geographic has also named the Outer Hebrides as one of the ‘Best of the World’ destinations for travellers in 2025. Add this region to your travel list and start planning your adventure today!
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What islands can I visit in the Outer Hebrides?
The Outer Hebrides are made up of over 70 islands, although only 15 are inhabited.
Lewis & Harris
Discover Lewis and Harris, with holiday ideas, accommodation, travel information, maps and things to see and do.
Isle of Barra
Long famed for its beauty - boasting beaches, hills, machair and moor all in a small island.
North Uist
North Uist is a paradise for wildlife and beach lovers and lies between Harris and Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides.
South Uist
South Uist is a relatively large island lying between Barra and Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides.
Benbecula
The small island of Benbecula lies between North and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides.
Berneray
Berneray is home to a wide range of wildlife including seals, stunning white sandy beaches and extraordinary seascapes.
Eriskay
Eriskay is alive with the essence of the Outer Hebrides. In 1941 the S.S Politician sunk off its shore inspiring the story of Whisky Galore.
Grimsay
This peaceful island in the Outer Hebrides is renowned for the quality of the seafood caught off its shores, particularly its lobsters.
Things to see and do in the Outer Hebrides
From stunning landscapes, spectacular coastlines and thrilling outdoor adventures to rare wildlife and ancient secrets, there are some great things to do in the Outer Hebrides.
St Kilda World Heritage Site
St Kilda is composed of five unique islands, Hirta, Dùn, Soay, Boreray and Levenish, alongside a number of towering sea stacks and islets.
Wildlife
The Outer Hebrides offer plenty of experiences to get close to nature.
Outdoor Activities
Get active around the islands, from cycling to sea kayaking.
Historical attractions
Delve into the rich history of the islands.
Wellness ideas
Experience wellness in the Outer Hebrides.
Calanais Standing Stones
Located in the west coast of Lewis, the 5,000 year old Calanais Stones are famous all over the world.
Inspiration for Outer Hebrides Breaks
Explore accommodation ideas for your trip to the Outer Hebrides.
Eriskay, Outer Hebrides
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Places to Stay
Choose hotels, self-catering or beachside campsites. Always book in advance during summer.
The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
Tours, routes and trails
Check out our ideas for curating your trip to the Outer Hebrides, including dramatic cycling routes, historical tours and boat trips.
Unique Experiences
Experience the Northern lights, learn more about Gaelic, or visit one the stunning island of St Kilda.
Gaelic culture
Discover the Gaelic language in the Outer Hebrides.
See the Northern lights
See this spectacular display in the Outer Hebrides, an elusive but unforgettable experience.
St Kilda
St Kilda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of an isolated archipelago of volcanic islands.
Museum nan Eilean Lionacleit
Museum nan Eilean Lionacleit is on the Isle of Benbecula, a sister museum of Museum nan Eilean, Stornoway.
Places to Eat in the Outer Hebrides
Fresh Scottish seafood
Food & Drink
Get a flavour of the islands with world-class seafood, Stornoway Black pudding and award-winning gin.
Explore further
Explore the Outer Hebrides
Find out more about the Outer Hebrides from the local community-interest group.
7Days
Car
An island hopping holiday on the west coast
Discover what it means to island hop across the western islands of Scotland.
