Islay Island vacation rentals

We found 23 vacation rentals — enter your dates for availability

Select from 11 homes, 13 cottages, and other vacation rentals in Islay Island to find one that's perfect for your trip. Vacation rentals provide the amenities you need and want for your family, friends, or furry companion, such as a hot tub and a washer and dryer. What you'll find is a rental for everyone's needs, including places that are non-smoking or accessible.
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Find out more about Islay Island

Find out more about Islay Island

Why visit Islay Island

  1. Stunning Beaches: Islay Island boasts beautiful sandy shores and breathtaking coastal views, perfect for relaxation.
  2. Whisky Tours: Experience the island's rich whisky heritage through guided tours of renowned distilleries.
  3. Charming Villages: Explore picturesque villages full of local culture, quaint shops, and friendly locals.
  4. Outdoor Activities: Enjoy walking holidays and outdoor adventures amidst Islay’s stunning landscapes.
  5. Cozy Accommodations: Stay in charming cottages or luxurious vacation homes for a comfortable getaway.

Popular types of accommodation in Islay Island

Islay Island offers a variety of vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs. From charming beach cottages to luxurious houses, you'll find the perfect holiday accommodation for your getaway. Whether you're seeking a beautiful cottage with stunning views or a luxury stay near the coast, Islay has it all. Explore our top rentals and discover the ideal base for your adventure on this enchanting island.

  • Cottages: The top choice for visitors seeking a cozy and charming stay in Islay Island, cottages offer a quaint and comfortable retreat amidst stunning landscapes.
  • Houses: A favored option for groups or families, these homes provide a spacious and homey atmosphere, perfect for enjoying quality time together while exploring the island.**

Top attractions in Islay Island

Islay Island, Scotland, is perfect for a romantic getaway or an entertaining cultural escape. Explore its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and engaging visitor centers. Enjoy activities like walking holidays, a day on Islay, and whisky tours, which offer a unique taste of the island's heritage. Whether you seek outdoor adventures or a relaxing beach day, Islay promises memorable experiences for every traveler.

  1. Museum of Islay Life: A fascinating history museum showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Islay. Discover local artifacts and stories that bring the island's past to life.
  2. Finlaggan Visitor Centre: An engaging visitor center perfect for outdoor adventures and family fun. Explore the historic site of Finlaggan, once the seat of the Lords of the Isles, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
  3. Eilean Mor: A stunning island that offers serene beach vibes and breathtaking coastal views. Ideal for relaxation, beachcombing, and enjoying the natural beauty of Islay.

Things to do recommended for groups

Experience the rich flavors of Islay Island by touring the Lagavulin and Bowmore Distilleries, both offering entertaining insights into whisky production. Don’t miss Islay Ales for a delightful brewery experience that combines romance and fun—perfect for bonding with your group!

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Islay Island

If you're traveling with a group, your family, bringing pets, or planning an extended stay, it's important to prioritize your preferences when filtering your options. Here are some helpful booking tips for using Vrbo.

  • Traveling to Islay Island with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you require, as well as any amenities like a full kitchen or outdoor area for group gatherings. Thankfully, you can easily filter for these options and more on Vrbo.
  • Traveling to Islay Island with young kids: Traveling with young kids can be quite a challenge. It's important to prioritize their comfort and safety, along with suitable amenities like a private swimming pool. Additionally, think about how close you'll be to family-friendly attractions.
  • Taking your pets with you to Islay Island: For many families, a vacation just isn’t the same without their furry companions. If this resonates with you, explore Vrbo listings that are pet-friendly. Many of these properties come equipped with feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that every member of the family feels comfortable and at home.
  • Planning for a long term stay visiting Islay Island: If you're in search of vacation rentals that offer discounts for stays of a month or more, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rentals. Don't forget to consider adding features like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool to enhance your search.

Where to stay in Islay Island

Islay Island offers a captivating blend of romance, entertainment, and culture, perfect for an unforgettable vacation. Explore charming villages, unwind in cozy holiday homes, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. With its stunning landscapes and friendly locals, Islay promises a unique experience for travelers seeking a memorable getaway. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the island's renowned whisky and bask in its breathtaking coastal views.

  • Port Ellen: Nestled on the southern coast of Islay, Port Ellen is a charming village known for its romantic ambiance and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including golfing at the local course, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The vibrant ferry terminal provides easy access to nearby islands, making it a perfect base for exploring. Local attractions include the Islay Museum, which showcases the island's heritage, as well as beautiful beaches and historical monuments that invite leisurely strolls along the coast.
  • Ballygrant: Located inland from Port Ellen, Ballygrant is a picturesque village that captivates travelers with its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Known for its serene environment, Ballygrant is ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat. The nearby lakes provide opportunities for fishing and peaceful walks, while several museums in the area allow visitors to delve into Islay's history and culture. The natural landscapes surrounding Ballygrant make it a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying the tranquil Scottish countryside.
  • Bowmore: As one of the oldest towns on Islay, Bowmore exudes charm with its rich heritage and lively cultural scene. The town is famous for its stunning distillery, where whisky enthusiasts can take tours and sample the local spirits. Bowmore's landmarks include the historic Bowmore Castle and beautiful parks that offer a perfect setting for picnics and relaxation. The town’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by various entertainment options, including local shops, restaurants, and galleries that showcase the artistic spirit of the island.

Best time to go to Islay Island

If you're planning a trip to Islay Island, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is August. Peak season runs in January, April and July, while off-peak times, like August and October to November tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighLow
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageHigh
March44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageLow
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowHigh
September56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowHigh
November48.7°F (9.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowLow
December45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Are you hoping to save on your upcoming journey? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as this often leads to lower prices. Additionally, you can enjoy considerable savings by opting for a longer stay. To discover a Vrbo property that suits your budget, simply utilize our filters to sort by price, location, and type of vacation rental. We're here to help you find the perfect option for your needs!

Save more with One Key

Reserve a qualifying Vrbo for your group getaway and earn OneKeyCash™ on your reservation. Being the planner certainly has its perks! When you become a member of our travel rewards program, One Key, you’ll gain immediate access to exclusive savings and the opportunity to earn and redeem OneKeyCash™ on eligible bookings. Sign up now and begin enjoying your savings!

Vrbo Trips: Effortless planning

Vrbo's Trip Board offers an easy way to plan your travel. You can create new trips, resume planning from where you paused, or keep track of your travel arrangements. Any properties you’ve saved or reserved will be neatly organized under Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To begin using Trip Boards, simply visit: https://www.vrbo.com/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties booked during 2023 and 2024.

Explore the waterfront setting in Islay Island

Enjoy the jazz and other features of Islay Island. This city's island views, bars and gardens draw many visitors. Whether you're planning a family holiday, romantic stay or friends trip, vacation rentals offer features like full kitchens and laundry facilities for a more convenient stay.

Exploring the natural features in Islay Island

Whether you're an adventurous traveler or just want to take in the scenery, Islay Island is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. Here are some of the area’s most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

  • Achamore Gardens (17.2 mi / 27.8 km)
  • White Hart Beach (7.3 mi / 11.7 km)
  • Kilnaughton Beach (7.5 mi / 12.1 km)
  • The Singing Sands (8.4 mi / 13.4 km)
  • Port an Eas (9.3 mi / 14.9 km)
  • Lossit (12.4 mi / 19.9 km)

Transportation options to and around Islay Island

Fly into Islay (ILY), the closest airport, located 4.6 mi (7.4 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Campbeltown (CAL), which is 27.7 mi (44.5 km) away.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Islay Island when booking a vacation rental?
Port Ellen is one of the most popular locations to select a vacation home in Islay Island. Looking for some top places to see here? Check out Lagavulin Distillery and Laphroaig Distillery.
What is the most popular type of vacation rental accommodation in Islay Island?
The most popular types of vacation rentals in Islay Island are cottages. Hoping for something different? Vrbo has many options to match our guests’ unique requirements, so you’ll see vacation homes in all sizes and shapes. The perfect fit is waiting for you — lock in yours today.
How much does it cost to rent a vacation rental in Islay Island?
Season, property type and length of stay are some of the things that can influence the price of a vacation home. Simply enter your dates of travel to find the ultimate escape. From cozy country cottages to sprawling villas, all Vrbo vacation rentals provide unbeatable value.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Islay Island?
The average price for a vacation home close to the beach in Islay Island will depend on when you’re going and the size and type of property you want. Find prices quickly and easily on Vrbo by entering your travel dates. Then use the filters to choose the number of bedrooms and amenities that you prefer, such as WiFi, air conditioning and a pool.
What are popular rental amenities in Islay Island?
Some of the most popular rental amenities people prefer in Islay Island include an ocean view, a barbecue grill and a nearby river. Whether you’re taking a trip with friends, family or even pets, Vrbo vacation rentals include the best amenities for making new memories with the people you cherish the most.
What are the top attractions for families in Islay Island?
Keeping the kids occupied during your stay in Islay Island is child’s play with these leading family-friendly attractions:

  • Ardmore Islands
  • Kildalton Chapel
  • Museum of Islay Life

Can I find two-bedroom vacation rentals in Islay Island?
Choose from nine two-bedroom vacation properties in Islay Island. Give your little ones the second room or maybe fill it with a couple of your nearest and dearest friends. There’s plenty of space for whoever’s fortunate enough to be coming along for the ride.
Are there vacation rentals with WiFi in Islay Island?
Pick from six vacation rentals with WiFi in Islay Island. If you’d like to disconnect from the world during your trip, but still need to be connected to the web, these properties have what you need. Narrow your search by applying the WiFi filter on Vrbo.
How old do you have to be to rent a vacation rental in Islay Island?
You should check with the Islay Island vacation property you’re considering on Vrbo as the minimum age varies. However, typically it’s 16, 18 or 21.
How long can I rent a vacation rental in Islay Island for?
It’s really down to the Islay Island property. To view a list of options offering extended stays, simply enter your travel dates and number of people into Vrbo’s search page. You can enjoy having the property to yourself, along with the comforts of home like a fully-equipped kitchen and outdoor spaces to play in. Be on the lookout for any long-term stays that offer weekly or monthly discounts.
Does Vrbo offer discounts for vacation homes in Islay Island?
Whether you’re after one of our newly listed homes, or one of our weekly or monthly discounts on vacation rentals, you’re sure to find some fantastic bargains and discounts on Vrbo. From weekend retreats to extended getaways, we’ve got the perfect space for your next Islay Island escape.

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