Shetland and Orkney, Scotland’s northern archipelagos, have their own unique landscapes and sense of place, largely derived from their geological diversity. However despite their differences, there are many common geological links between the island groups and the Scottish Highlands. We find many of the same rock types but with additional geological riches, and an intense display of geological variety that gives each island, particularly in Shetland, its own feel. We will explore the geological contrasts between Shetland and Orkney and explore varied coastal features such as geos, tombolos and sea stacks.