9 of the top beaches in the North of Scotland
There's something for everyone
People flock to the North of Scotland every single year, for the simple reason that this little corner of the world is stunning. Whether you are a walker, climber, cyclist or ambler, this place is perfect, and none more so than our spectacular coastline. Whether rain or shine, the beaches in the North of Scotland attract residents and visitors in their droves. We have put together a list of our favourite beach spots in the North of Scotland.
Gruinard Bay
Gruinard Bay feels like a lovely place straight out of a storybook. With coves, rock pools and beautiful sand, it is the perfect setting for pretty much anything. There are also picturesque views across to the Coigach Hills.
The area is particularly popular due its geological importance, with many unusual types of stones found here.
If you enjoy walking, there are many options for countryside trails to enjoy. The area is largely untouched, and you will need to pack your own supplies.
Dornoch Beach
Dornoch beach is a great stretch of sandy coastline, hugging the Dornoch Firth. The beaches in this area are very proud of their water quality and the cleanliness of the shoreline. It is a great place for walks, paddling, running and even rock pooling. Flanked by sand dunes, this area is adjacent to grassland making it a good host for various plant and bird species.
Eagle-eyed visitors can spot the odd seal and dolphin if they are lucky enough.
Dunnet Sands
Perched almost at the top of the north-eastern peninsula of Scotland, Dunnet Beach is a lovely length of sand stretching for over two miles.
The prime location of this shoreline makes it a popular choice amongst many types of visitors; surfers, wildlife fans and walkers to name but a few. Beyond the beach, there is also grassland to explore, and an array of birds to spot.
Enjoy the views across to the Orkney Islands, and if you are lucky, you could spot the odd seal or dolphin.
Nairn
Approximately 15 miles east of Inverness, closely hugging the Moray Firth, you will find the cheerful Nairn beach. It is a typical yet unique seaside resort with everything you would expect and more. It is comprised of three beaches and each one has its own charms.
Central Beach is the most built-up and active of the three, with a playpark, tea rooms, golf courses, promenade and ice cream shops. It is of course also the home of lovely clean sand and low dunes. Despite its northerly position, it enjoys good weather and can become very busy in the summer months.
If you prefer a quieter day out, the West Beach is far more remote and less built up, making for a peaceful walk.
Loch Morlich
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Cairngorms, Loch Morlich is a fresh water loch buffered by beautiful sandy beaches. The bay is situated in a National Park and controlled by the Forestry Commission.
The amazing combination of the loch and forestry provides for a wealth of outdoor pursuits. There are beautiful walks to enjoy, plus water sports, not to mention stunning views of the Cairngorms.
Findhorn Beach
Findhorn Beach is another perfect spot on the Moray Firth shoreline. It is predominantly a sandy beach, however, when the tide comes in, most of the sandy area is submerged, leaving the pebble section of the beach accessible.
The beach is part of the nature reserve and so is a great spot for taking walks. There are opportunities to spot seabirds, seals and dolphins. On the water, you can enjoy taking out a boat or other water sports. Nearby, the village of Findhorn, the marina and heritage centre are also attractions for a day out.
Sandend beach
On the West side of the Scattery Burn, near Cullen lies Sandend village, a small fishing village.
The beach is extremely popular with families, being large and sandy so a great playground in which to spend the day.
There are some rocky areas to be aware of, but plenty of sand when the tide is out.
Rosemarkie Beach
Located to the north of the town of Fortrose, Rosemarkie Beach is a lovely spot at the mouth of the Moray Firth. This coastline boasts lovely golden sand and is popular with visitors.
If you make your way to the far point of the peninsula, you will come to Chanonry Point, a spot used as a viewpoint for dolphins. If you stray away from the beach you will be met with lovely woodland and gardens, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Embo Beach
Embo Beach is a lovely beach which spans from Embo village near Dornoch to the River Fleet. Comprised of beautiful fine sand and some rock areas, the bay close to the Dornoch Firth is a lovely destination for a walk, run, picnic or paddle.
The beach is dotted with high dunes, and you could catch a glimpse of various wildlife, including dolphins, seabirds and butterflies.
The next time you are trying to decide where to spend a precious day out, have a think about some of the jewels in our coastline.
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