Things to Do on Islay
Whether you are drawn by whisky, wildlife, beaches or simply the peace of island life, Islay offers something for everyone. This guide highlights some of the best ways to enjoy your stay, from distillery tours to coastal walks and quiet harbour villages.
Distilleries
Islay is famous for its distinctive single malts, and a distillery visit is a highlight for many guests. Tours and tastings are available at most distilleries; it is worth checking opening times. If you want a specific tour, it is advisable to book in advance.
North of the island
West of the island
Centre of Islay
Soon to open
Port an t-Seilich (Port An Truan) and Laggan Point Distillery are among the new distilleries coming to Islay. Check locally for the latest opening dates.
Islay Ales Brewery
By Glenegedale, Islay Ales offers a different taste of the island's brewing heritage.
Islay Rum
In Port Ellen, Islay Rum produces rum on the island. A welcome alternative for non-whisky drinkers.
Beaches and Coastal Walks
Islay's coastline offers quiet sands, rocky coves and gentle walks along the shore. Many beaches are easily accessible and perfect for a short stroll or a longer afternoon.
Safety: Rip tides and strong currents make swimming, surfing or paddle boarding unsafe in all but the most sheltered bays. Please take care near the water.
Machir Bay
A wide, sandy beach on the west coast with views across to the Atlantic. Ideal for a gentle walk or a quiet beach day.
Tip: Good for scenic views and dog walks.
Saligo Bay
Another west-coast gem with dramatic dunes and rocky outcrops. A quieter alternative to Machir Bay, with a short walk from the parking area.
Tip: Ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
Bunnahabhain to Port Askaig
This coastal path offers views of the Sound of Islay and Jura. The walk can be done in sections or as a longer route depending on the time you have.
Tip: Check weather; paths can be muddy after rain.
Port Ellen to Ardbeg
A pleasant coastal walk along the south coast, passing distilleries and the ruins of Dunyvaig Castle. Suitable for a gentle stroll with good views.
Tip: Combine with a distillery visit.
Wildlife and Nature
Islay is famous for its birdlife, including the wintering geese that visit in large numbers. Seals, otters and a variety of other wildlife can be spotted around the coast and lochs.
Barnacle and Greenland Geese
Thousands of geese overwinter on Islay, feeding on the island's fields and roosting on the lochs. The RSPB and other reserves offer viewing hides and information.
Tip: Best seen from autumn to early spring.
Seals and Otters
Common seals and grey seals can often be seen from the coast, especially around harbours and rocky shores. Otters are more elusive but can be spotted along the shoreline at dawn or dusk.
Tip: Bring binoculars and move quietly.
Birds of Prey and Waders
Hen harriers, golden eagles and a variety of waders can be seen across the island. The machair and coastal areas are particularly good for birdwatching.
Tip: Family-friendly; hides are accessible.
Loch Gruinart
An RSPB reserve with a visitor centre and viewing facilities. The loch and surrounding area are ideal for spotting geese, waders and other wetland birds.
Tip: Check opening times for the visitor centre.
Islay Natural History Trust
In Port Charlotte, the trust offers displays and information on the island's wildlife and natural history.
Tip: Worth checking seasonal opening times.
Historic Sites and Local Heritage
Islay has a rich history, from ancient settlements to the ruins of medieval castles. Many sites are free to visit and offer a peaceful glimpse into the island's past.
Finlaggan
Once the seat of the Lords of the Isles, Finlaggan sits on the shores of Loch Finlaggan. A visitor centre and interpretive trail explain the site's history. A short walk leads to the island.
Tip: Allow an hour or two for a relaxed visit.
Dunyvaig Castle
Ruins of a medieval castle near Lagavulin distillery. The site overlooks the sea and is easily combined with a distillery visit or coastal walk.
Tip: Good for a short stop with scenic views.
Kildalton Cross
An early carved cross standing in a quiet churchyard on the east coast. One of the finest examples of its kind in Scotland, set in a peaceful setting.
Tip: Combine with a drive around the east coast.
Museum of Islay Life
In Port Charlotte, the museum tells the story of island life through the centuries. A good way to understand the island's heritage and culture.
Tip: Worth checking seasonal opening times.
Standing stone at Ballinaby
An ancient standing stone in the west of the island, one of Islay's prehistoric landmarks.
Cultoon stone circle
A stone circle near Portnahaven, offering a glimpse into Islay's ancient past.
Villages and Harbour Spots
Islay's villages and harbours offer a chance to slow down and enjoy the pace of island life. Cafés, shops and friendly locals make the villages welcoming places to stop.
Bowmore
The island's capital and home to Bowmore distillery. The distinctive round church, shops, cafés and harbour make it a central hub for visitors.
Tip: Good for a morning or afternoon stop.
Port Ellen
This is one of the ports where the CalMac ferry leaves for the mainland.
Tip: Ferry terminal; check ferry times.
Port Charlotte
A charming village on the west coast with a distillery, museum and harbour. The coastal road to Port Charlotte is scenic and worth the drive.
Tip: Museum of Islay Life is here.
Port Askaig
This is the port where you get the CalMac ferry to the mainland and the small ferry over to Jura. There is a hotel, a shop with Post Office, and it is the home of the island's lifeboat and lifeboat shop.
Tip: Closest ferry port to Ayen Cottage.
Outdoor Activities
From gentle walks to cycling and fishing, Islay offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The island's quiet roads and varied terrain suit different activity levels.
Walking
Coastal paths, hill walks and gentle trails are available across the island. The Islay Way and other routes offer options for short strolls or longer hikes.
Tip: Bring suitable footwear; paths can be muddy.
Cycling
Quiet single-track roads make island cycling enjoyable. Bike hire is available in some villages; bring your own on the ferry if you prefer.
islayewheels.co.uk · islay-bikehire.co.uk
Tip: Be aware of traffic; some roads are narrow.
Fishing
Sea and loch fishing are popular on Islay. Permits and local advice may be needed; check with local suppliers or fishing clubs for current arrangements.
flyfishislay.co.uk (loch fishing) · islay-sea-adventures.co.uk
Tip: Good for a relaxed day by the water.
Golf
Islay has a golf course at Machrie for those who enjoy a round. The island setting makes it a memorable place to play.
Tip: Book ahead in advance during peak season.
Food and Local Produce
Islay's food scene reflects its island setting: fresh seafood, local produce and a growing number of cafés and restaurants. Many distilleries also offer cafés or light meals.
Seafood and Local Catch
Fresh fish and shellfish are available from local suppliers and on restaurant menus. Crab, lobster and scallops are often on offer when in season.
Tip: Some restaurants are seasonal; check ahead.
Distillery Cafés
Several distilleries have cafés or restaurants, ideal for lunch between tours. Ardbeg and others offer good options for a midday stop.
Tip: Popular; consider booking for lunch.
Village Cafés and Shops
Bowmore, Port Ellen and other villages have cafés and shops selling local produce. A good way to sample island flavours and pick up a picnic.
Tip: Family-friendly; good for a light lunch.
Seasonal Highlights
Islay's calendar includes events and natural highlights that change through the year. The Feis Ile whisky festival in May is one of the busiest periods; autumn and winter bring the geese and quieter island pace.
Feis Ile (May)
The Islay Festival of Malt and Music takes place each May. Distilleries host open days, tastings and events. Book accommodation and ferry well in advance.
Tip: Very popular; plan early.
Winter Geese (Oct–Apr)
Thousands of barnacle and Greenland geese overwinter on Islay. RSPB reserves and viewing hides offer good opportunities to see them.
Tip: Quieter time; ideal for birdwatchers.
Summer Beaches and Wildlife
Longer days and milder weather make summer ideal for beaches, coastal walks and wildlife watching. Distilleries and cafés are busy but welcoming.
Tip: Book ahead for accommodation and tours.
Travelling Around Islay
Many visitors bring a car to Islay or hire one locally. Car hire is available from Islay Car Hire and Cresswell Cars; it is best to book ahead during busy periods.
There are now a good number of taxis available on Islay, but advance booking is highly recommended.
For ferry and flight information, see our Travel to Islay page.
A Warm Welcome Awaits
After a day exploring distilleries, beaches or wildlife spots, Ayen Cottage offers a comfortable place to return to. We are always happy to help with distillery planning, restaurant suggestions or local recommendations.