Top 5 Beaches in the Falklands

With so many glorious white sand beaches, many bursting with wildlife colonies, it is difficult to pick out the best. These five are scattered around the archipelago; there are many, many more!

1.  Yorke Bay, Stanley

Re-opened in November 2020 with a fanfare and ribbon-cutting to celebrate the removal of the last landmine, Yorke Bay is easily accessible to all and close to the city of Stanley. It is a beautiful stretch of white sand from a summer Magellanic penguin colony to rocky outcrops and dunes backing on to Yorke Bay Pond.

It’s a lovely area to enjoy some watersports with expert advice, watch the wildlife, or simply stroll and paddle at the water’s edge. Please respect the penguins and beware occasional sinking sands at the eastern end – stay in the central section.

2.  Bertha’s Beach, Mare Harbour

Bertha's Beach tops the list for those staying at Mount Pleasant Complex. It’s a long and bracing walk from end to end of these stunning white sands, but those that make it will find a gentoo nesting area at the north-east and wetland habitats of international importance (a RAMSAR site and ‘Important Bird Area’) behind the beach itself.

Residents of Mount Pleasant will find access information at the Base; other visitors can find out more from the managers of Fitzroy Farm. Click here to download self-guided walking trails in the area.

3.  Bull Point, North Arm

Heading south on East Falkland, the Bull Point peninsula is the most southerly point of this island and home to an array of wildlife and beautiful beaches. Overlooking ‘Bull Roads’, an area of ocean to the east, is an amazing length of white sand, perfect for kite-flying and picnicking whilst enjoying the ocean views and birdlife. Walk or drive to the most southerly point to find pretty coves, the remains of an old lighthouse and the most southerly working nautical navigation light.

This area requires an overland vehicle trip and is ideally accessed from an overnight stay at North Arm; it may also feature on some cruise schedules. Download our self-guided trails leaflet to find out more.

4.  Carcass Bay, Fox Bay East

Those lucky enough to visit West Falkland can take time to visit this wonderful beach, home to Magellanic penguins in summer months and a glorious sweep of sand at any time of year. Just sit and listen to the sounds of the waves gurgling over the large pebbles or marvel at the views in all directions.

It’s a very long walk from the settlement but can be driven or reached by guided tour. Keen walkers will enjoy hiking the final few kilometers, taking in a rockhopper penguin colony en route. This also features amongst our self-guided trails.

5.  Leopard Beach, Carcass Island

Carcass Island is a true gem with Leopard Beach at its southerly end. Just 1km (0.6 miles) long, the beach is backed by sand dunes, making it the perfect place to sit and appreciate the views across to the mainland of West Falkland and the spectacular ‘Needles’, a line of rocks in the ocean. Gentoo penguins wander ashore and there are nearby Magellanic penguin burrows along with a host of other seabirds. The island is home to the endemic Cobb’s wren and tussac birds.

The island has overnight accommodation and also features on many cruise schedules.