From hidden coves to surfers' paradises, taking in both city beaches and remote shores which seem to stretch for miles, a break on Scotland's coasts offers something for everyone. Please find a roundup of top beach locations for those looking to have a picturesque picnic, a family day out, enjoy a spot of wildlife watching or sit back and enjoy an epic sunset:

Top beaches for a family day out

• Urban beach – Edinburgh, Portobello Beach: With its waters granted designated bathing water status from SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency), and its low tide, Portobello Beach is the perfect place for beginners to enjoy the wonders of wild swimming. Families can enjoy sandy shores, a promenade with cafes and ice cream shops.
  
  
• Milarrochy bay, Loch Lomond: This stunning stretch of water has a sandy bay providing great access to the water. Surrounded by Munros and walking trails, and located close to the town of Balmaha, a refreshing swim is the perfect way to cool off after a day of exploring.  Families can enjoy the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail at Luss on Loch Lomondside, before visiting the new Faerie Tale Farm to meet alpacas, donkeys, sheep, highland cows and goats. Adult entry fee from £3.33, under two's go free. Opt to extend  the day with a stay at Cameron Lodges, where little ones will receive an 'explorer kit', containing binoculars, an adventure vest and hat, as well as stationary to make a note of their discoveries. Price per night starts from £154 per night.

• Nairn Beach, The Highlands: This superb sandy beach in the middle of Nairn is a fantastic attraction and popular with families. Its coastline is home to a resident school of dolphins and there is also a great range of coastal walks in either direction with a stunning nature reserve at Kingsteps in the east and a viewpoint to the west. For those looking to experience adventure, the Bowhunter Team offer the opportunity to learn Woodland Archery, as well as Axe Throwing, Bushcraft, and the exhilarating game of Combat Archery. For more information on visiting Nairn, please visit: www.nairnscotland.co.uk/

Top beaches to watch the sunset

• Gruinard Bay, Ross-Shire: Nestled on the west coast of Scotland, Gruinard Bay is a hidden gem renowned for its mesmerizing sunsets. The expansive sandy beach offers unobstructed views of the horizon, allowing sunset-spotters to witness the gradual fading of daylight and the emergence of a celestial masterpiece.
  
  
• Ninian's Isle, Shetland: St. Ninian's Isle is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand, creating a unique setting for sunset enthusiasts. As the sun sets over the North Sea, the surrounding landscapes and the ancient chapel on the isle are bathed in a warm golden light.
  
  
• Tentsmuir Sands, Fife: Exploring the winding pathways that meander through the dunes is rewarded with panoramic views of the sunset over the North Sea and the surrounding coastal woodland. Tentsmuir Sands is a haven for wildlife, so keep an eye out for rare bird species and other fascinating creatures that call this dune-filled landscape home.

Top spots for wildlife enthusiasts

• Isle of Coll, Inner Hebrides: with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, this island offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore its underwater wonders. Discover thriving kelp forests, encounter curious seals, and witness the vibrant array of fish that call these waters home. The Isle of Coll's untouched beauty and diverse marine ecosystem make it a must-visit snorkelling destination. These coastal waters also offer a unique opportunity to witness one of nature's gentle giants—the basking shark. With its enormous size and placid nature. Join Basking Shark Scotland and embark on an extraordinary adventure to experience the awe-inspiring presence of basking sharks in the waters of Scotland.
  
  
• Isle of Arran, West Coast of Scotland: Arran's captivating beaches offer a gateway to the past, inviting fossil hunting enthusiasts and shell collectors to embark on an extraordinary journey through time. Absorb island life and book in to Lochranza Youth Hostel, from £14 per person per night and be sure to stop by The COAST Discovery Centre - Scotland's first Marine Protected Area (MPA) visitor centre, and the UK's first community-led MPA visitor centre. Learn about the island's marine biodiversity and the conservation efforts - located right on the sea front in Lamlash Bay, it is fully accessible and open seven days a week, rain or shine.
  
  
• Lunan Bay, Angus: A hidden gem known for its pristine sandy beach and breath-taking coastal scenery. Stay at Lunan House Hotel, from £82 per night and take time to visit Montrose Basin Visitor Centre, Scottish Wildlife Trust. Montrose Basin is the enclosed estuary of the South Esk River. The reserve includes a 4-star visitor centre along with four remote bird hides. Covering 750 hectares, Montrose Basin is home to over 80,000 migratory birds including pink-footed geese, common terns, knot and kingfisher. Non-member adult entry fee £5.50, children (under 16 years old, free entry).

Top beaches for a picturesque picnic

• Prince's Beach, Eriskay, Outer Hebrides: One of Scotland's most historic beaches, it's said to be where Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot on Scottish soil. Marvel at this beautiful beach and embark on a leisurely coastal walk, tracing the rugged cliffs and taking in the dramatic coastal views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
  
  
• Balephuil Bay, Tiree: Known as the 'Hawaii of the North', Tiree provides a tranquil paradise for holidaymakers to relax and unwind. With white-shell beaches and turquoise waters, Balephuil Bay is the perfect place for a swim and a firm favourite for surfers, thanks to the warm waters brought in by the Gulf Stream.
  
  
• Loch Goilhead, Argyll: Situated amidst the stunning scenery of mountains and forests, the highlight of this destination is undoubtedly its pristine beach. Visitors flock to Loch Goilhead to soak up the sun, bask in the serenity, and indulge in a plethora of exciting activities.  After a day exploring, continue to enjoy the view at The Shore House Inn, from £90 per room per night.

ENDS

For further information or images please contact:

Rachel Holloway
Assistant PR Manager at VisitScotland
Rachel.holloway@visitscotland.com

Additional information of interest 

Keep Scotland Beautiful have announced the winners of this year's Scotland's Beach Awards. From Shetland to Scottish Borders, there are 52 beaches across Scotland which have been awarded for excellence in three key areas: Access, facilities and safety, Local Environmental Quality, and Community and heritage. More info on their website here: Scotland's Beach Awards | Keep Scotland Beautiful

Water safety

• Visitors should make themselves aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions when around open water including researching the area beforehand, never swimming alone and supervising children at all times.
• For further advice from the Water Safety Code, visit the Water Safety Scotland website.
• For a list of lifeguard beaches in Scotland, visit the RNLI website. 

PLEASE NOTE

This copy was correct at the time of going to press. VisitScotland cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information and accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation.  All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by the reliance on the information contained herewith, or in the event of any company, individual or firm ceasing to trade, is hereby excluded.