If jetting off to Hawaii seems totally out of reach, there’s a tiny little island closer to home which has been dubbed the ‘Hawaii of the North’. Lying at the most westerly point of the Scottish Inner Hebrides you’ll find the Isle of Tiree, home to just 650 people. Showing off the island’s enviable crystal clear seas, intrepid traveller Tom Wheaton, also known as @briit_abroad on social media, shone a spotlight on the diminutive islands spectacular scenery.
In an Instagram post from July, Tom shared some fun facts about the ‘Hawaii of the North’. He wrote: “A few FUN FACTS about TIREE. Tiree is one of the sunniest places in the UK! Boasts warm waters heated by the gulf stream.
Nicknamed 'The Hawaii of the North'. Has some world-class surf and beaches. Home to @redbullsurfing sponsored @benlarg.
” Fans couldn’t help but share their enthusiasm for the island, with Marina saying: “I'm sure it's better there than in the Maldives.” Heike wrote: “I’ll be there!! Next summer!! Can’t wait to see the beauty and meet the people!!” Alia agreed: “Really beautiful, the colour of the water is just breathtaking! Had a great great uncle who lived near a place called Hough bay.” One of the most impressive stretches of sand is Balevullin Beach, which also happens to be a popular surfing destination on the island.
It’s also home to Blackhouse Watersports , a family-run school dedicated to teaching surf and kite surfing to beginners and beyond. You’ll find their beach hut on the beach, which they say is the perfect location to try your hand at watersports. You may also be familiar with one of the school’s own, Ben Larg, a 19-year-old big wave surfer hailing from the island.
On the south west of the island, visitors will find Balephuil Bay, home of the Tiree Wave Classic, the world championship windsurfing event. Dating back to 1985, you'll find the event taking place in October this year. Tiree is also one of the sunniest places in the whole of the UK with the help from the warm Gulf Stream.
So even if you visit during the winter months, the temperatures will be higher than the mainland. And you won’t be lost to find some of the freshest seafood about. Head over to the main village on the island, Scarinish, to get your seafood fix.
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