11 of the best beaches in Scotland

There is something so refreshing about the breeze of the Outer Hebrides, and beaches on Harris and Lewis come close to perfection. Tolsta, a crofting village, is not far from Lewis' main town of Stornoway and this peaceful cove is hidden away from the road, ideal for a picnic stop.

Add to this the fascinating people and Gaelic culture, amazing archaeological stories and unparalleled vistas that stretch along the Hebridean Way, and no wonder that the Outer Hebrides have been hailed as one of the ‘Best of the World’ destinations for travellers in 2025 by National Geographic.

Beach fact: The white sandy beach is popular with surfers, with big swells forming in this exposed stretch of coastline.

You are never more than 5 km from the sea on the northerly Shetland archipelago, so a Scottish beach adventure is always on the cards! One of the most incredible coastal sights is St Ninian's Isle. A circular 6 km walk will see you set foot across one of the finest sand tombolos in Europe, walking straight through the middle of the ocean over a natural sand causeway towards the isle.

Beach fact: A Pictish treasure hoard was found on the island, beside the ancient chapel site. 

If you like your beaches sandy, blissful and picturesque, look no further than the town of Ayr's coastline. Adjacent to the beach, there's a putting green, play area and crazy golf. Look across to the sea and enjoy the views across to Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran. If you're looking for a beach near Glasgow, Ayr Beach is under an hour's drive away, or you can just hop on the train to Ayr for a day out.

Beach fact: The ruins of Greenan Castle are found further along this beach, dating back to the 16th century. 

Visit the most westerly beach on mainland Britain. Sanna Bay is famous for its wide expanse of silvery sand and amazing dunes, all set against a backdrop of rugged hills. Stretch your legs and enjoy a local walk through the dunes to the headland cairns. Along the way you'll be treated to stunning views of the Small Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Canna. There are also plenty of rock pools to explore at low tide and you'll find lots of wildlife here, including sea eagles, otters and pine martens.

Beach fact: A road trip to remember. This hidden gem can be reached by driving through the magma chamber of an extinct volcano!

You might recognise it from the opening scenes of Chariots of Fire (1981), but West Sands Beach in St Andrews is equally well known for simply being a long, lovely beach - with the Old Course to one side and atmospheric swirling seas to the other.

Beach fact: The coastal town of St Andrews is home to the third oldest university in the English-speaking world. It was founded between 1410 - 1413.

Over in the north east Mainland, the harbour at 'Lossie' is flanked by two stunning beaches to the east and west. The east's pretty sand dunes and long stretches of white sand make it a lovely place to walk the dog, or just yourself, with views across to the harbour town. Or, why not explore the Covesea Lighthouse on the west side?

Beach fact: This isn't just one of the best beaches in Scotland - the gelato is amazing! Stop for a scoop at Miele's.

Here is a city beach with a bucket and spade-load of charm! With an art-deco inspired esplanade, the golden coastline stretches 3 km and is one of the best beaches in Scotland to see bottlenose dolphins in the summer or to try out some watersports. Head along the esplanade towards Footdee (pronounced 'Fittie') and discover a 19th century fishing village, with clusters of charming cottages originally built for fishermen working along the harbour.

Beach fact: Fresh seafood is still a local favourite here - try some of the catch served up in Moon Fish Café or Silver Darling in Aberdeen's city centre.

The Isle of Mull is famous for its geology so there are lots of amazing rocky beaches on the isle, but Calgary Bay stands out. Facing across to the isles of Tiree and Coll, it's easy to while away the hours here on a sunny day, with a little café selling hot drinks and ice cream nearby.

Beach fact: Keep an eye out for white-tailed sea eagles. A family of these fantastic birds have been successfully breeding on the Isle of Mull since 1985.

If you're looking for a slice of paradise, look no further than Nairn Beach. Located east of Inverness, imagine turquoise waters accompanied by white sandy beaches and scenic surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or try some watersports like surfing or stand-up paddleboarding. Nearby, kids can let off steam at the playpark or improve your swing at two championship golf courses - The Nairn Golf Club and Nairn Dunbar Golf Club. Of course, no beach trip would be complete without stopping off for some fish and chips or ice cream. There are plenty of food stalls around, so you'll never leave hungry!

Beach fact: Nairn Beach is a great place for wildlife spotting. You might even be lucky enough to spot some Moray Firth Dolphins.

Rockcliffe is a wonderful Scottish beach. You can go for a morning or afternoon saunter along the wooded coastal walkway for about 5 km between the villages of Kippford and Rockcliffe, with cute houses, colourful plants and local wildlife to spot along the way. At Rockcliffe, a bird sanctuary called Rough Island can be reached on foot at low tide all year round, except for May and June (when the birds take charge of the isle!).

Beach fact: There is a lost, ancient citadel at the hilltop, Mote of Mark, which is believed to date back to the 5th or 6th century.  

Just over an hour's drive from the capital, Coldingham Bay is one of several pristine beaches near Edinburgh, quietly situated along the Berwickshire coast. Popular with surfers and dog walkers alike, these sands are great for strolls, hitting the surf or befriending hermit crabs in rock pools. Walk from Coldingham to St Abbs along the Creel Path for more breathtaking wildlife and crystal-clear seas.

Beach fact: Coldingham is home to the Coldingham Priory, the former house of Benedictine monks with records dating back as far as 640 AD.