Get your dose of vitamin sea at the 8 best beaches in Edinburgh!
There’s something about the beach that calls to me, no matter the season. Even in the heart of autumn or winter, I find myself drawn to the shore—whether it’s for a bracing dip (weather permitting) or just a stroll to fill my lungs with that salty sea air.
Lucky for me, Edinburgh is just a stone’s throw away from some fantastic beaches, all within an hour’s reach. They may not be the tropical postcard kind, but they have a rugged charm that offers a perfect escape from city life.
If, like me, you crave a seaside retreat now and then, here’s my pick of the best nearby beaches.
Portobello Beach
– Media from portobelloedinburgh
Address: Figgate St, Portobello
Drive from Edinburgh: 10 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Portobello Beach is hands down Edinburgh’s go-to seaside escape. I’ve been coming here since I was a kid. It’s one of the easiest sandy shores to reach without venturing too far from the city centre.
Just three miles from town, this lively stretch is perfect for a day of seaside fun. Even if you’re not up for a swim, a wander through the charming bakeries, cafés, and shops is a great way to swap city air for a refreshing sea breeze.
But for me, nothing beats a classic beach picnic—good food, good company, and a front-row seat to the waves!
Tips:
- The best time to visit the beach is in the morning until mid-afternoon. Lots of people tend to flock here in the evening to catch dinner or a late-night snack at the rows of cafes and restaurants along the beach. If you want a quieter time along the shore, come in the early morning or afternoon on a weekday.
- Don’t miss out on trying a Turkish bath at the Portobello Swim Centre. It’s the only Victorian Turkish bath facility you can find in the city, and I highly recommend trying it out while you’re there. Learn more about it here.
Musselburgh or Fisherrow Beach
– Media from katehailey
Address: Musselburgh
Drive from Edinburgh: 15 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Musselburgh, or Fisherrow Beach, is one of Edinburgh’s best-kept seaside secrets. I don’t come here as often, but when I do, it’s usually for a quiet wade in the water. Thanks to the neighbouring harbour, the waves stay nice and gentle.
Unlike its busier counterparts, this beach has plenty of space for picnics and barbecues without the crowds. My top tip is to swing by in the late afternoon. The sunset here is pure magic, and the water stays just as calm, making it the perfect spot to unwind.
Tips:
- If you’re planning to paddle at Musselburgh Beach, be mindful that the shoreline gets a bit stony near the water (those slip-on water shoes can be a lifesaver).
It’s a great spot to explore when the tide is out past the harbour walls, but don’t get too carried away. The tide rolls back in faster than you’d think, so check the tide times beforehand to avoid any surprises.
- If you’re planning a late-night visit between April and September, keep in mind that overnight parking is off-limits from 11:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Ignore the rules, and you might wake up to a £100 fine—not exactly the kind of souvenir you want from your trip!
Cramond Beach
– Media from wild.heart.charlie
Address: Crammond
Drive from Edinburgh: 15 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
If you’re after a beach with a bit of character, Cramond’s got it in spades. This wee seaside village, with its whitewashed cottages and cracking views over the Firth of Forth, is a proper gem for a beachside hangout with friends and family.
The tides and currents here can be pretty strong, so I usually stick to strolling along the shore or soaking up the views from the sand.
But on days when I’m feeling adventurous and in need of a good dose of vitamin sea, I can’t resist wading into the water for a wee splash!
Tips:
- You can stroll across the causeway to the island when the tide is low, but be sure to check the tide times beforehand—unless you fancy an unplanned overnight stay with the seabirds.
- This charming spot remains beautifully preserved as a protected village, so parking rules are strictly enforced. Stick to the designated parking areas to avoid a fine from Edinburgh Council!
Seacliff Beach
– Media from roanlavery
Address: Seacliff, North Berwick
Drive from Edinburgh: 45 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
If you’re after a peaceful beach escape not too far from Edinburgh, Seacliff Beach is a hidden gem worth discovering. Tucked away along the East Lothian coast, this secluded stretch of sand is privately owned but accessible for a small £5 fee.
I brought my family here for a picnic, and we had the whole place nearly to ourselves—just us, the waves, and a few happy dogs running along the shore. If you fancy an adventure, nearby Seacliff Stables even offers pony treks along the shore.
Tips:
- The road leading to the beach is a narrow one-way track with some rough patches, so take it slow—especially if you’re driving a low-riding car.
Parking is limited and fills up quickly, so it’s best to visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
As for the public toilets, let’s just say you might want to plan ahead.
- For a bit more peace and quiet, head to the right side and follow the curve of the shore. You’ll find a more secluded spot, though the ground is a bit rockier.
And watch out for the red ants in this area. They’re tiny but feisty!
Yellowcraig Beach
– Media from cws214
Address: Ware Rd, North Berwick
Contact Details: +44 162 082 7625
Drive from Edinburgh: 30 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Yellowcraig is a little drive away, but every gas and kilometre is worth it once you reach the shores of this gorgeous beach. Locals say that this very beach was the inspiration behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, so expect fantastic vistas there.
Aside from the beach, you can also venture into the lush forests within walking distance and head up to the Victorian lighthouse. Since it’s also near a nature reserve (Fidra Island), you can catch sight of hundreds of puffins here if you bring binoculars.
Tips:
- You’ll find toilets and showers on-site, along with three picnic benches near the information area. One of which is wheelchair accessible. A well-maintained path and ramp also make it easy for wheelchair users to enjoy the stunning coastal views.
- To reach the beach from Edinburgh, hop on the East Coast Buses 124 or X5 to North Berwick, which stops at Dirleton. From there, you can either follow the footpath along the road signs to Yellowcraig or take the scenic route via the John Muir Way from the village’s west end.
Belhaven Bay Beach
– Media from thistlycrosscider
Address: The Glebe, Dunbar
Drive from Edinburgh: 40 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
A bit further out, you’ll find Belhaven Bay, a stunning stretch of sand within John Muir Country Park. With its rolling dunes, stunning coastline, and sweeping views over the Forth Estuary, it’s easy to see why this beach is a favourite of my brother’s.
My brother swears by the waves here. He took his first surfing lesson here and still talks about how exhilarating it was. Whether you’re up for riding the waves or just enjoying the scenery, it’s well worth the trip!
Tips:
- If you’re planning to park overnight, be aware that it’s only allowed from 11:00 pm to 4:00 am during the off-season (January to March and October to December) in the designated motorhome bays for £10.
Payment can be made at the ticket machine or through the RingGo app.
From April to September, overnight parking is strictly prohibited, and parking outside the marked bays at any time could land you a £100 fine.
- Showers are available at the Surf Hub Building. Toilets are also available within the beach premises, but if you’re only paying a visit, I recommend doing your business outside the beach. Queues for the toilets get long here throughout the day!
Aberdour Silver Sands Beach
– Media from aliandi1
Address: Firth of Forth, Burntisland
Drive from Edinburgh: 55 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Aberdour Silver Sands may not be made of silver, but its soft, sloping shores are just as fine. Whether you’re up for a lazy day basking in the sun or simply soaking in the stunning coastal views, this beach is the perfect spot to unwind.
On sunny days, you’ll often spot kayakers and even windsurfers gliding across the water and dunes, and if you’re up for it, there’s a club at one end of the cove.
If you’re not the type to party and glide, just enjoy the best views of the Forth because the Inchcolm and Inchmickery islands look lovely from here.
Tips:
- If you’re up for a scenic stroll, the Fife Coastal Path runs right past this beach, offering stunning views along the way. During the peak summer months, lifeguards keep watch, making it a safe spot for a dip.
You’ll also find handy amenities like a beachfront café, toilets, first aid services, and designated areas for dogs.
- For the wee ones, there’s a mini golf green and a bouncy castle that pops up in summer.
- If you can’t find an empty bench or picnic table, best to bring a beach towel or picnic blanket and lie on the ground. There are trees near the shore that offer a lot of shade!
Gullane Beach
– Media from paulinejurkevicius
Address: Marine Terrace, Gullane
Drive from Edinburgh: 35 minutes
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Gullane Beach is the kind of place that looks straight out of a postcard—stunning no matter the weather. Sure, sunshine isn’t always guaranteed, but when it does make an appearance, it’s the perfect excuse to stretch out on the sand and tuck into a picnic.
If you’re the thrill-seeking type, you’ll love watching wind and kite surfers dancing across the waves. And before you call it a day, take a stroll through the sand dunes. It’s a local rite of passage and the best way to soak in Gullane’s wild, windswept beauty.
Tips:
- The weather here tends to be on the damp and dreary side, so a good pair of wellies is always a smart choice. The sand, especially around the dunes, can get pretty soft and soggy, making it tricky to walk if you’re not wearing the right footwear.
- There’s plenty of parking available, but don’t forget to pay and display your ticket. East Lothian doesn’t mess around when it comes to fines.
Even if the machine isn’t working, you’re still expected to have a valid ticket, so check ahead or use a mobile payment option if available.