Discover Edinburgh Beaches

29 November 2022|Read time 2 mins

On a sunny weekend it is difficult not to get ahead of yourself and start thinking of the best Edinburgh beaches.

Spend your days basking in the sun, and prove that we don't need to go abroad every summer to have a good time. After the news that 54 of Scotland’s beaches have been given 'excellent water quality ratings' by the Marine Conservation Society’s 'Good Beach Guide 2014' it seems like a sign to shout about the wonderful beaches near and around Edinburgh.

Explore Edinburgh beaches with Reserve Apartments

Portobello Beach (Central) – Edinburgh

The more popular beach in Edinburgh, Portobello is in a great location for holidaymakers visiting the city who fancy a beach day when one of those ‘scorchers’ come along.

Easily accessible by public transport, Portobello has a variety of attractions to keep all the family entertained.

If you fancy stretching your legs, take a stroll along the promenade and have a nosey in at the arcades, bars and cafes.

To the west of the city centre we find Cramond Beach with the unique feature of Cramond Island which can be accessed at low tide.

Yellowcraigs Beach (Broad Sands Bay) – Dirleton, East Lothian

A beach near Edinburgh, Yellowcraigs is the ultimate outdoor activity area; not only have you got the sand and sea but, a nature trail and bookable barbecue site after you have worked up an appetite.

Enjoy the fantastic views of Fidra Island and its lighthouse, while you soak up the sun on this cove beach.

This area was the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, so send the kids off on a swashbuckling adventure to uncover some buried treasure while you relax and fire up the barbie.

Gullane Beach – East Lothian

One of East Lothian’s prettiest bays is the award-winning Gullane Bents.

Complete with a viewing platform, picnic area, dunes and large grassy banks.

This beach will set the right vibe for a family day away from the city. Settle into one of the large dunes and take advantage of nature’s wind guard.

Don’t forget to walk to Gullane village and soak in the country lifestyle as you walk down the quaint high street.

Make a day of it and treat yourself to an evening meal. As well as traditional seaside takeaways, Gullane boasts the Michelin recognised Bonnie Badger, which offeres twists on classic Scottish dishes. 

Down the coast from Gullane visitors will find Dunbar, home to East Links Family Park.

This is a good option for a family day trip from Edinburgh and allows children to explore farm life.

Longniddry Bents Beach – East Lothian

Situated a short train ride away from Edinburgh, is this lovely, long, sandy beach.

The kids can get stuck into exploring the rock pools or take advantage of the arcades of the nearby caravan site.

Popular with nature enthusiasts, this beach is well known for spectacular views of birds feeding during low tide, and if you are lucky you might catch a glimpse of some seals.

If there is no wildlife you will still get a fantastic view of the Firth of Forth, including the iconic Road Bridge.

Seton Sands Beach – East Lothian

If you keep walking to the west of Longniddry Bents you will eventually find yourself on its rockier sister beach, Seton Sands.

This beach is perfect for inquisitive kids who will love to spend their time looking through the rock pools, and discovering weird and wonderful sea creatures hiding in the shallow waters.

Seton Sands is a great location for those who wish to spend their holidays by the sea, with its renowned holiday park of the same name.

Visit Edinburgh beaches

All of these beaches have achieved the highest rating in the Marine Conservation Society’s 'Good Beach Guide 2014' and are just waiting for you and your family to descend with bucket and spade at the ready!

Book your next self-catering trip with Reserve Apartments and get ready to get active during your city break.