8 Scottish beaches you'll be glad you visited

Although a day at the beach may not be the first thing you think about when visiting Scotland, there are some truly spectacular beaches to be explored on the coasts of this beautiful land. Many beaches in Scotland have received Scottish Seaside Awards in recognition of good management, while several beaches have also won Blue Flag Awards which are part of an international awards system operated in numerous countries around the world.

However, there are numerous Scottish beaches that haven’t won awards which are some of the most striking beaches in Britain. The Scottish beaches below include some award winners and some non-winners but each beach has something to offer, from secluded stretches of sand without any signs of humans to popular spots with a range of family-friendly activities. Well-behaved dogs that are kept under control are allowed on the beaches unless there are seasonal restrictions. Make sure you check for signposts and clean up after your dog too.

Dornoch

Dornoch Beach is located in the Scottish Highlands about a mile from the town of Dornoch. A beautiful stretch of coastline and the chance to spot local wildlife such as seals makes this Seaside Award winner a very attractive beach. A public toilet can be accessed at the beach. There are a range of activities such as cycling, golf and fishing as well as a variety of shops, a museum and a cathedral within Dornoch. Camping and caravan parks are available too.

Lunan Bay

Head south roughly three miles from Montrose on the coast of Angus and you’ll find Lunan Bay. There is a car park nearby and you may spot horse riders on the beach. This beach is also frequented by surfers and is good for bird-watching too. Camping and caravan accommodation can be found within the surrounding area and nearby attractions include the remains of the Red Castle, Dunninald Gardens, several golf courses and the Montrose Museum and Art Gallery.

Sandwood Bay

If you like stretches of sandy solitude, Sandwood Bay is the place to go. This beach, located in Sutherland, is on the furthest north-west point of mainland Scotland. You can’t reach this beach by car. Instead, you have to take the footpath from the car park at Blairmore to Sandwood Bay. This four-mile walk is well worth it for the beautiful scenery you will be greeted with on your arrival. In addition to the lovely sandy beach and dunes, there is an eye-catching sea stack visible from the beach. There is a loch nearby and a range of wildlife in the area, including red deer, badgers and a variety of seabirds. Camping and caravan accommodation are within an easy drive of this beach.

Luskentyre

You may think of the world’s top beaches as all being tropical paradises but actually Luskentyre has been voted amongst the best beaches in the world. Once you see this beach, you will understand why. Situated in Harris in the Outer Hebrides, this stunning beach offers incredible sea and mountain views. You may even spot some dolphins or seals and even come across a wild pony if you’re lucky! Facilities are sparse, with a car park and public toilet available, but with such incredible views you won’t mind having to carry your own food if you fancy a seaside snack. There are camping and caravan sites on Harris.

Milsey Bay

North Berwick is about 25 miles east of Edinburgh and offers several pretty beaches to choose from. We recommend visiting Milsey Bay. This family-friendly beach is fantastic for picnics and exploring rock pools. There is also a paddling pool for children. From this beach, you can visit the Scottish Seabird Centre nearby, a fun adventure for the whole family to enjoy. North Berwick offers camping and caravanning accommodation and has a great range of activities and attractions, including boat trips, museums, walks, shops and dining venues to choose from as well as several castles in the surrounding area.

Calgary Bay

The popular beach at Calgary Bay (pictured above) on the Isle of Mull is breathtakingly beautiful, with a small car park and public toilets nearby as well as a wild camping area. Facilities are sparse, with a café and art gallery in Calgary, but other facilities such as larger galleries and shops are available just a few miles away. Calgary Castle, which is available as a holiday home, overlooks the bay.

Camusdarach

Situated between Arisaig and Morar, Camusdarach is part of the collection of beaches known as the Silver Sands of Morar. Living up to the name, this beach features a fantastic stretch of gleaming sand, beautiful dunes and gorgeous sea views. There is convenient camping and caravanning accommodation nearby and several activities to keep you well entertained, such as guided walks, golfing, kayaking and cruises. This beach is ideal for swimming and is sure to be a hit with families.

West Sands

One of the most renowned beaches in Scotland and the winner of a Seaside Award, West Sands in St Andrews is where the opening sequence for Chariots of Fire was filmed. There are public toilets, a café and a picnic area. This beach is very popular for kite surfing. Dogs are restricted during summer in the part of the beach closest to the town. There are several camping and caravanning sites to choose from nearby, as well as a host of attractions in St Andrews that are guaranteed to keep the whole family entertained, including golfing, shops and galleries, chapels, an aquarium and St Andrews Castle. 

Superb seaside sights for everyone to enjoy

Within this selection of Scottish beaches is something to cater to everyone, from single travellers to couples, friends and families. Whether you’re looking for a scenic and non-crowded location to simply marvel at the natural splendour around you or you are looking for a place that offers great family fun with numerous attractions and handy facilities, you’ll definitely be glad you visited these Scottish beaches.