Camping in holiday parks is becoming more popular in the UK for 2026, and Scotland definitely has some stunning vistas to admire. What is more, a holiday park on the West Coast was named the best for coastal camping in the UK for 2026, beating places like Devon and Suffolk.
idealo has published their list of the best coastal campsites for 2026, looking into affordability, guest reviews, beach proximity and on-site facilities. As a result, Machrihanish Holiday Park, Argyll was named the best place in the UK for coastal camping.
Machrihanish Holiday Park, Argyll
Machrihanish Holiday Park is located in the Kintyre Peninsula in Argyll, two hours and 45 minutes drive from Glasgow. The spot prides itself as “one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets”, with a 10-minute walk to the beach, holiday homes, caravans, glamping lodges and camping pods. What is more, the spot boasts great facilities overall, including wi-fi, electricity, proper bathrooms and an on-site shop. And, of course, you can just bring your own tent or campervan, too!
idealo said: “Topping the overall ranking is Machrihanish Holiday Park on the Kintyre Peninsula in Argyll, Scotland. Pitches start at £26 per night without a hookup, and with Machrihanish Bay Beach just 0.6km away, it’s the closest campsite to a beach in the top 10.
It also scores strongly on facilities; hot showers, flushing toilets, electric hookups, Wi-Fi and an on-site shop are all available for campers, and dogs can also stay for free, making it a particularly strong option for pet owners.”
Adenike Herzog-Osikominu at idealo shares practical guidance, saying: “Many of the campsites in this study apply dynamic or seasonal pricing, meaning a pitch in late May or early September can cost considerably less than the same spot in late July or August. If school holiday dates are not a constraint, travelling in the shoulder season is one of the most reliable ways to reduce the overall cost of a trip.”
Adenike also highlights the importance of choosing suitable equipment for coastal conditions: “A durable, weather-appropriate tent suited to coastal conditions where wind and damp can be more of a factor reduces the risk of having to replace or repair equipment mid-trip. Checking idealo’s range of tents and camping gear before you book means you can compare prices across retailers and find the best deal before the peak season rush drives prices up.”
The UK’s Best Coastal Campsites for 2026
- Machrihanish Holiday Park, Argyll
- Beryl’s Campsite, Devon
- The Hollies Leisure Resort, Kessingland, Suffolk
- Llanungar Caravan and Camping
- Watermouth Valley Camping Park
- Manor Farm
- Beadnell Bay Camping
- Burnbake Forest Lodges and Campsite
- Watertop Farm
- Treveague Campsite
Machrihanish Holiday Park is located at Holiday Park, Machrihanish, Campbeltown PA28 6PT, and you can plan your stay here.
