The best things to do in and around Oban
Penned on the 5th August 2025
If you’re seeking a destination for a picturesque west coast adventure in Scotland, look no further than Oban. Set in a sheltered horseshoe-shaped bay, this seaside town has it all – the scenery, the hiking trails, the watersports, the wildlife, the historic castles and the world-renowned seafood and whisky. Its close proximity to the famous Glencoe, Ben Nevis and Hebridean Islands makes for some spectacular day trips too. In fact, Oban is often called the ‘gateway to the Isles’ because there are so many wonderful islands to visit nearby, each with their own unique character.
Whether you’re here for a week of adrenaline-fuelled outdoor pursuits, keen to explore the rugged landscapes, or simply craving a slow-paced escape amongst nature, we’ve pulled together some of the best things to do in Oban (or within a short drive or boat trip!) to help you plan your trip.
Hop on the ferry to Kerrera or Lismore
Kerrera is Oban’s nearest neighbouring island, visible from most parts of the town and just a few minutes’ ride away on the ferry. With peaceful trails, panoramic views and the dramatic ruins of Gylen Castle to explore, it's a walker’s paradise! There’s a 6.75-mile circular loop that takes in all the highlights and conveniently passes by Kerrera Tea Garden & Bunkhouse, where you can pause for a hearty lunch or recharge with some tea and cake. A little further away on the ferry is the Isle of Lismore. Just ten miles long and one mile wide, this charming island is another great spot for walkers and nature-lovers, with gorgeous green scenery and sweeping sea views.
Sample the world-class seafood
Oban is widely known as the ‘seafood capital of Scotland’, and for good reason. Some of the finest fresh fish and shellfish in the world are landed here, sourced from its pristine (and famously cold!) surrounding waters by local fishermen. Seafood-lovers will be spoilt for choice with oysters, mussels, lobster, crab, scallops, mackerel, langoustine and more on offer at one of the town’s many seafood restaurants and eateries. For a dine-in experience overlooking the water, head to Ee Usk or Waterfront Fishouse. Or for something a little more low-key out in the fresh sea, pick up a takeaway from Oban Fish & Chip Shop or Oban Seafood Hut, the famous green shack on the pier.
Walk up to McCaig’s Tower
Perched high atop Battery Hill, McCaig’s Tower offers some of the very best views of Oban, its busy harbour and the surrounding islands across the bay. Despite the name, it’s not technically a tower but rather a grand ‘folly’ – a Colosseum-like structure built by John Stuart McCaig from 1897 to 1902, intended as a family monument and a project to help local stonemasons. Nowadays, there’s a peaceful green garden encased in its walls too. It’s a lovely place to explore on foot, well worth the 144-step ascent up the hill (although you can also take a taxi if you don’t fancy the climb). And on a clear evening, it’s an especially magical spot to watch one of Oban’s stunning sunsets.
Take a day trip to Mull
Although you could spend far longer than a day exploring this beautiful Hebridean island, Mull is accessible from Oban via a 45-minute ferry ride, making it a brilliant destination for a day trip. For a relaxed day out, you could explore the shops and cafés on the brightly-coloured seafront at Tobermory before lying back on one of the outstanding sandy beaches with a book. Or for something a little more exertive, take a hike up the rugged Ben More, the island’s only Munro with spectacular vistas, and look for red deer, wild goats, golden eagles and white-tailed eagles as you go. It’s one of the best places to spot whales, too, so be sure to take your binoculars.
Drink a dram (or three) at Oban Distillery
Tucked beneath the steep cliffs overlooking the bay in the town centre, Oban Distillery is one of the oldest and smallest distilleries in Scotland, originally established way back in 1794. Today they still have just two small copper stills from which they produce their award-winning coastal-character whisky – and on a guided tour you can learn all about their proud history and traditional craft, as well as sample three of the distillery’s delicious single malt drams, of course. There’s also a welcoming tasting bar serving their full range of whiskies and a variety of excellent whisky cocktails, if you want to taste a few more!
Cycle on the Caledonia Way
Oban is a fantastic place for cyclists, whether you’re seeking a challenging hill climb, a scenic long-distance ride or a gentle pedal along the coast. One of the most iconic routes is The Caledonia Way, a spectacular 237-mile route that runs from Campbeltown in the south to Inverness in the north. If you start from Oban, you can tackle a 120-mile section, or split it up into smaller, more accessible stretches. The 48-mile route to Fort William is especially popular, with its largely traffic-free path, much of which follows the former railway line, with wonderful coastal views and minimal gradients. If you need to hire your wheels, head to Oban Cycles and choose from their range of mountain bikes, touring bikes and electric bikes to suit all levels.
Take a marine wildlife tour
Oban’s coastline is teeming with marine wildlife – and it’s home to Scotland’s (and mainland UK’s) first Mission Blue Hope Spot, one of just a few special places that are scientifically identified as critical to the health of the ocean. What better way to experience the incredible marine life than with a Seafari Adventures tour? Based in the conservation area of Easdale, around 16 miles south of Oban, this expert operator offers tours aboard high-speed RIBS that’ll whisk you round the islands. With a little luck, you might see dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks, whales, seals and even otters. The tour also visits the Gulf of Corryvreckan to witness the world’s third-largest whirlpool – a true highlight of the trip!
Stroll along the waterfront
The bustling harbour of Oban is a charming and picture-perfect spot for a gentle meander along the waterfront. Admire the characterful hotels and historic buildings that line the shore, watch the fishing boats and ferries coming and going from the port and enjoy the ever-changing views across the bay. At low tide, skim stones on the pebble beach. And when you need a refreshment, treat yourself to an ice cream at one of the several parlours or kiosks – The Pokey Hat is a firm local favourite. If you’re in the mood for a longer waterfront walk, keep going along the path to the Esplanade. You can stroll all the way to Dunollie Lighthouse where you’ll be rewarded with excellent views of Kerrera, Lismore and beyond.
Have a coldwater dip
Wild swimming is a popular activity along Scotland’s west coast and Oban, and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities to take the plunge. Ganavan Sands is the most well-known beach nearby, if you’re up for a beautiful open ocean swim, especially on a calm day. For a refreshing river dip in a lush green valley with a birdsong soundtrack, try the River Oude. Or if you’re craving immersing yourself in a tranquil (but bracing!) Scottish loch with a dramatic mountainous backdrop, head further south to the stunning Loch Fyne. Just make sure you enter the water slowly to let your body adjust, stay within your depth and wear a bright coloured swim hat or tow float so you’re easily visible to others.
Explore historic castles
Scotland is world-famous for its historic castles, with over 1,500 of them still standing around the country today. There are six remarkable castles along the coastline in and around Oban, all of which are worth a visit if your time allows. The nearest are the ruins of Dunollie Castle, which have been dramatically standing guard over Oban Bay since the 12th or 13th century. Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel is one of Scotland’s oldest surviving castles and a mighty fortress just a few miles north of the town, built on an immense rock overlooking the Firth of Lorn. And further afield, near Appin, is the fairytale-like Castle Stalker, which you might recognise from Monty Python’s The Holy Grail!
Go sea kayaking
Oban’s sheltered bays, scenic coastline and nearby islands make it an ideal destination for a sea kayaking adventure, whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced paddler. Sea Kayak Oban offers a series of guided trips led by friendly, expert instructors, from relaxed half day tours to full multi-day expeditions. Rental of your gear is included and you can choose between a single or a tandem kayak, depending on your experience level and who you’re adventuring with. Many of the trips launch from the calm waters in Oban’s beach just 50 metres from their base – and on your journey you’ll encounter stunning scenery and maybe even whales, basking sharks, seals and other wonderful wildlife.
Visit the Isle of Staffa
If you’re happy to take a longer day trip when you head to Mull, you can travel on from there to visit the Isle of Staffa (or you can book a Three Isles Tour to take in Iona as well). Staffa is a tiny National Trust-owned island and a designated National Nature Reserve that’s definitely worth the effort to get to. The otherworldly hexagonal rock formations on the island were formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions and have been attracting visitors for centuries, including Queen Victoria and William Wordsworth. During your visit you can also experience the incredible acoustics of Fingal’s Cave and enjoy spotting puffins and other seabirds whilst you tuck into a picnic in the summer months.
Take a road trip to Glencoe
Less than an hours’ drive from Oban you’ll find Glencoe, one of the most awe-inspiring locations in the UK, let alone Scotland. This staggering National Nature Reserve in the Scottish Highlands is made up of impressive mountains, vast glacial valleys, rocky outcrops and waterfalls, making it a true paradise for walkers, nature-lovers and photography enthusiasts. You can simply drive the iconic A82 road to soak up the showstopping views – or, if you’re up for a hike, there are plenty of routes of varying lengths and difficulties to get out and about in the landscape. Look out for majestic stags and golden eagles as you go.
Climb Ben Nevis
A little further afield, around 45 miles from Oban, stands Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. This iconic peak attracts over 150,000 walkers and climbers each year, all hoping to conquer its magnificent 1,345m summit. If you fancy taking on the challenge, the classic route to the top is called the Mountain or Pony Track, which typically takes around 7 hours to complete from the Ben Nevis Visitors Centre. Unless you are an experienced climber, it’s safest to hike between May and September, when you’re less likely to encounter snow. Whatever the season though, the weather can be changeable and unpredictable, so make sure you’re prepared with the right gear!
Staying near Oban
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to stay near Oban and escape the hustle and bustle, you might love Na Mara Bothy. Meaning ‘of the sea’, this cosy off-grid bothy offers an idyllic retreat in a gorgeous natural setting, with its own private beach, woodfired outdoor bath and breathtaking mountainous backdrop.