Twice a year, the Isles of Scilly hosts something truly special – The Low Tide Event, an organised celebration of one of nature’s most extraordinary sights: the seabed between Tresco and Bryher revealed at low tide.
While it’s sometimes possible to walk between the islands at other points in the year when the tide is low enough, these official events are the only times you’ll find the sandbar transformed into a lively pop-up festival with food, drink, music, and a joyful island gathering.
When the moment arrives, the sea retreats so far that a sand and shell-strewn channel appears between the islands. The Tresco team wade out first, setting up for the festivities as the shallows glisten in the sun. Then, from both shores, islanders and visitors make their barefoot journey across the seabed, meeting in the middle for a once-in-a-blue-moon celebration right at the heart of the channel.
Soon, the sandbar comes alive with laughter, conversation, music, and the clinking of glasses. Cold drinks flow from pop-up ‘Sand Bars’ hosted by Tresco Island and Hell Bay Hotel, with locally distilled spirits like the much-loved Hell Bay Gin. Bryher’s Island Fish might even beach their fishing boat, Emerald Dawn, to serve up the freshest seafood – scallops, crab, and lobster straight from the sea.
Every Low Tide Event brings a slightly different flavour, with a rotating line-up of local producers and entertainment. Past gatherings have featured live music from Cornish singer-songwriter Will Keating and the band Scuppered, seabed safaris with the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, traditional lobster pot-making with islander Jof Hicks, and tempting treats from SC Dogs Rum, Westward Farm Gin, and Veronica Farm Fudge.
But the clock is ticking. This fleeting celebration lasts just over an hour before the klaxon sounds, signalling the tide’s return. Guests wander back to dry land or continue the day exploring the opposite island before taking a boat ride home, sailing right over the very sand they were dancing barefoot on just hours before.
September 2025 – Your Chance to Experience It - CANCELLED
The first Low Tide Event of the year took place in April, but the second is set for September 9, 2025. Keep an eye on island noticeboards, local boat service updates, our Low Tide Event page or the Tresco Island website for the latest details.
2026 - Save the Dates for 2026
You can experience the Low Tide Events in 2026 on the following dates - mark them in your diary so you don't miss out!
- Friday 17th April 2026
- Friday 11th September 2026
How to Make the Most of the Low Tide Event
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Arrive early – the sandbar is only exposed for a short window, so give yourself plenty of time.
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Wear water shoes or sandals – you’ll be walking over sand, shells, and the occasional pebble.
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Bring a camera – this is one of Scilly’s most photogenic moments.
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Stay for the atmosphere – enjoy a drink, chat with the locals, and sample some of the islands' flavours.
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Follow safety advice – tides can turn quickly, so always head back before the klaxon.
The Low Tide Event is more than just a walk across the seabed – it’s a celebration of island life, community spirit, and Scilly’s ever-changing coastline. For one brief moment, two islands become one, and everyone is invited to share in the magic. Whether you’re crossing for the first time or returning to relive the magic, it’s a moment worth timing your trip around.
Image Credits: Tom Matthews
