Great Bay is located on the northeast coast of St Martin’s in the Isles of Scilly and is renowned for its natural beauty and isolation. The beach features expansive stretches of soft white sand backed by grassy dunes and offers sweeping views towards the Eastern Isles. It is popular with those seeking tranquillity, wildlife, and unspoilt landscapes, as there are no commercial facilities or development directly on the bay.
Due to its remote setting, Great Bay is often quiet even in the summer and is well regarded for swimming, walking, and birdwatching. The waters are generally clear but can be exposed to Atlantic swells, so care should be taken. Access is on foot from St Martin’s villages via unmade coastal paths that pass through scenic heathland and dunes.
Great Bay is described as a wild and peaceful beach, perfect for those looking for a genuine escape. Visitors should be prepared for a lack of amenities and bring necessary supplies with them, as the nearest services are in St Martin’s settlement areas.
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Nicola James
4 months agoSt Martin’s is one of the wonderful Islands of the Isle of Scilly. Not only does this island harbour historical antiquities such as many neolithic and early bronze age sites and archaeological richness, but the island also provides you with a selection of the most stunning sparkly crystal sandy beaches on each side of its shores. The only way to reach the island is by one of the day tripper boats so make sure that you clarify the timings and destinations of arrival and departure. It is possible to pack a picnic, your swim kit, snorkelling kit, and suncream ready to spend a few hours on this beautiful beach and believe me, you will not want to leave! This bay provides you with not only the most stunning vista, but also crystal clear and glittery waters, as well as the odd sighting of a seal or two. This is such a super special place, and I know I will miss if I don’t make my annual pilgrimage ❤️✨ Enjoy✨
Cot A
7 months agoSimply a must. Beautiful bay. Perfect for rock pooling, sea glass, shells & snorkelling (with a wet suit!) bit of a scramble down to the bay, but doable…not with a buggy or wheelchair. Toilets at the St Martins reading room, bakery & shop on the Island also. We got the boat from St Mary’s - due to the tides the boatmen will either drop you off at high or low town - you the leave from the opposite side of the lsland.
Tiago Zortea
7 months agoNick Wright
9 months agoSecond best beach on the island after its next door neighbour Little Bay!
Christian Gleffe
11 months ago