5 of the best beaches near Edinburgh
Time to explore the local beaches
Edinburgh is renowned for its architecture, culture and history, and particularly loved for its natural beauty. We can be forgiven therefore, for forgetting that our capital also boasts an incredible coastline with beautiful beaches. These beaches offer huge appeal to walkers, families, dog-walkers, cyclists and all manner of residents and tourists.
Here we have narrowed down the best beach spots to check out:
Cramond Beach
Cramond is a quaint Edinburgh suburb, just north of the city. A bustling fishing village, it proudly showcases its harbour and promenade, both of which make it ideal for a meander, walk or run.
The promenade is a real favourite with dog walkers and cyclists whatever the weather, and if you just want to sit and listen to the chattering ducks there are many lovely spots for that too.
The views are spectacular, especially on a clear day overlooking the Firth of Forth. Across the causeway you can spy Cramond Island, popular for bird watching and quiet picnics.
Portobello Beach
Approximately three miles from Edinburgh's city centre, Portobello Beach is a top spot for locals and visitors. The beach is a hit for dogs, children and runners as it is wide and around two miles long, perfect for running around.
If you are a dog walker, then you will also find vendors conveniently selling doggie treats.
In warm weather it is a favourite for locals for swimming and lounging, its other attractions include a small funfair, sailing and kayaking, a Victorian pool and not to mention the local ice cream!
Yellowcraigs Beach
Yellowcraigs Beach is another gem so much so that is has won the award for 'Best UK beach for urbanites in search of the sea', as published by Conde Nast Traveller. Situated near Dirleton village, this popular spot offers beautiful woodlands and grassy areas, plus a nature trail. The village itself has the additional pull of an ancient castle with incredible gardens. You will also be treated to a view of the Fidra Lighthouse which is was built in 1885, and the island of Fidra which is reported to be the inspiration for 'Treasure Island' the Robert Louis Stevenson classic novel.
If you love a sandy beach, then this is the place for you. The golden sands are dotted with clear rock pools whilst big sand dunes offer amusement for children and pets. If you do bring a family, there is also a huge outdoor play area for children.
Gullane Bents Beach
Gullane Bents Beach is our top pick for watersporters. You can canoe, windsurf and fly kites, not to mention the natural attraction of a lovely beach for walking or running. Keen bird-watchers will be impressed by the bird life views, thanks to a dune system which attracts smaller birds. Other attractions here include a motor museum and a crazy golf course for everyone.
North Berwick Beach
North Berwick beach is another golden sandy beach and a real favourite with locals. It is just perfect a beautiful walk in the Summer, and a more bracing one in the Winter! A great deal of its beauty comes from the grassy hills surrounding it, and there is a lot to do if you want to get active. This is our top pick for bird watchers as it is home to the Scottish Seabird Centre, and you can see all manner of winged gems, including the largest puffin colony on the East Coast of the UK.
If you are looking for sports, exercise, sunbathing, birdwatching or just a good old meander, there is a beach near Edinburgh which is just perfect for you and might even be closer than you think.
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5 of the best beaches near Edinburgh
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