Barra Airport Barra

Barra Airport beach is a unique tidal strand located on the Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland. The spot features an extensive sandy beach that serves as the airport runway, exposed during low tide on a shallow bay with significant tidal variation. The coastline faces northwest across the Atlantic, with side-shore conditions optimal during northeast to east winds. Water conditions are rough, with average 2.33m waves and strong reliability at 16.4 knots. The shallow tidal flats create sandbar formations visible in the imagery. This spot suits intermediate kiters comfortable with tidal logistics and variable bottom conditions. Access depends entirely on tide schedules, as the beach disappears at high water. The area experiences cool conditions (10.2°C average) typical of Scottish waters. Wind reliability is solid at 69.4%, though Atlantic exposure brings variable conditions. Kiters must coordinate around aircraft operations and be experienced with tidal flat navigation and shallow-water techniques.