The UK beach that’s been compared to the Maldives – it has sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters
A BEACH in the UK has been compared to the Maldives by holidaymakers who can’t believe it’s in this country.
Far more people are looking to find places to holiday closer to home this year, with trips abroad becoming increasingly expensive.
One place that could fool people into thinking they’re abroad is up in Scotland, with Vatersay Bay on the Isle of Barra often likened to the shores of much more exotic locations.
Compared to the Maldives by holidaymakers and travel experts, Vatersay Bay is home to white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Sun Online Travel previously compared the Isle of Barra to the Maldives thanks to its white sandy beaches.
It’s not only travel experts who’ve likened this beach to the Maldives, but holidaymakers on social media platforms have also spotted the similarities.
In a video on TikTok, user mairilouise_ posted a video focusing on the white sand and blue waters at Vatersay Bay.
The 16-second video has had over 380,000 views with people rushing into the comments to share their thoughts on the secluded Scottish spot.
One person wrote: “The sand is so white, I thought it was snow.”
While another person added: “Omg, I didn’t think such a place existed in Scotland that looks beautiful.”
Other people described the beach as “stunning” and “amazing” and many added the beach to their summer holiday plans.
Another user, who is known as TrainPal, challenged the statement: “There are no Maldives-like beaches in the British Isles.”
He then zoomed in on Vatersay Bay on a map and compared the beach to the exotic island.
In total, the Isle of Barra only has around 1,100 people living there.
However, tourists often visit during the summer with attractions including sunbathing, swimming, hiking, and island hopping.
Direct ferries operate to the Isle of Barra from Oban, with journey times taking around five hours.
As well as a lively ferry port, the island also has its own tiny airport with a beach runway.
Loganair operates direct flights between Glasgow and the Isle of Barra with prices starting from £55 for a one-way ticket.
From the port, it’s a 10-minute drive to Vatersay Bay where holidaymakers can spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and paddle boarding.
There’s a car park at the Vatersay Cafe where visitors can go to grab a bite to eat, while public toilets and showers can be found at the community hall.
Other activities near the beach include a circular walking route where holidaymakers may be able to spot seals.
As well as Vatersay Bay, there are several other white sandy beaches on the island including Tangasdale and Traigh Mhor.
Holidaymakers can also go sea kayaking, golfing, and island hopping to other parts of the Outer Hebrides.
There are also several castles worth visiting including Kisimul Castle, which is located on the small island of Castle Bay.
The island also has several dining options from cafes to restaurants, and you can stay at a variety of different accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, and campsites.
But Vatersay isn’t the only slice of paradise in the UK, there’s also the Isles of Scilly in Cornwall.
Not only do the Scilly Isles have sandy beaches and peaceful waters but visitors can also see exotic wildlife too like seals.
Meanwhile, this little-known beach has been voted the best in the UK.