Edinburgh is one of the UK’s top destinations for a city break, captivating visitors with its rich history, fascinating landmarks, and vibrant culture. But did you know it’s also surrounded by some of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches?
Just a short journey from the city, you’ll find spectacular stretches of coastline, offering the perfect day-trip escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you want to unwind, explore, or simply enjoy the views, the coastal spots surrounding Scotland’s capital are a year-round destination.
Let us guide you to some of the best beaches in Edinburgh, where adventure, history, and natural beauty await.
The best beaches in Edinburgh: Portobello Beach
Just four miles from Edinburgh city centre, you will find the beloved Portobello beach with its golden sands and long promenade lined with traditional Victorian buildings, which looks like it’s been taken straight from a postcard. Its proximity makes it a wonderful spot for your mid-morning coffee or to spend an afternoon relaxing on the sand and still be back in the city in time for dinner.
Things to do at Portobello Beach
The sandy shores stretch for over two miles, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, beach volleyball, or lying in the sun with a good book. The water is often calm, making it an excellent spot for water sports. The promenade is ideal for cycling, walking, and jogging, with plenty of stops along the way. The Beach House café is a lovely lunch stop where you can enjoy a dish from their locally sourced, seasonal menu if you’re lucky enough to grab an outside table. Civerinos is also a popular spot where you can grab one of their giant slices of pizza – a hit with visitors! Or perhaps you could pop into Miro’s for a wine or cocktail, and watch the world go by.
Portobello is a great day out for families. The beach is fantastic for sparking children’s imaginations, and the Nobles Amusement Arcade and playgrounds scattered along the coast provide endless entertainment for younger visitors.
If you have time, head up to the high street where you will find an excellent selection of independent shops. And if you happen to be visiting on the first Saturday of the month, stop by the Portobello Local Market, where you will find a lovely range of delicacies and crafts.
How to get to Portobello Beach
Portobello beach is just a 15-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre, with plenty of parking options once you arrive. You could also use the city’s excellent public transport system and hop on one of the regular Lothian Buses (19, 26 and 49). If you’re up for the challenge, you could even walk to the suburb (or cycle, or run!), which would take around an hour.
The best beaches in Edinburgh: North Berwick West Beach
The charming North Berwick tops the charts of many a list, including the Sunday Times’ 2025 best places to live in Scotland. Nestled on the East Lothian coast, it is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Edinburgh, offering an unforgettable seaside experience – spending a day here is sure to leave you wanting more.
Things to do at North Berwick West Beach
The inviting, golden sands offer the perfect place to relax and enjoy the coastal beauty. For those looking to add some adventure to their visit, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are all popular choices when the weather permits. If you prefer to stay on dry land, the nearby North Berwick Law (sometimes known as Berwick Law) takes around an hour to hike, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area and across the Firth of Forth.
The towering Bass Rock, which stands proudly just 1 mile from the shore, is home to the world’s largest Northern Gannet colonies and even features in David Attenborough’s BBC series “Wild Isles”. You can explore this intriguing island for yourself with Sula Boat Trips which sets sail from the town’s harbour.
The town is full of character and a foodie’s dream, with quaint streets, charming independent shops, and a range of delightful cafés attracting visitors from far and wide. For seafood lovers, try the Lobster Shack at the harbour, a popular takeaway offering the finest locally caught seafood from breaded haddock tacos to a North Berwick lobster and crab roll. Steampunk Coffee is another must-visit. Situated in the heart of the town next to the old churchyard, you will find quirky interiors, exceptional coffees and homemade delights.
How to get to North Berwick West Beach
North Berwick is just a 20-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre. East Coast buses also run regular services, as do Scotrail if you prefer to take the train, both of which are just a short walk to the beach.
The best beaches in Edinburgh: Gullane Beach
Hidden away amongst golden dunes on the East Lothian coast, Gullane Beach – also known as Gullane Bents – is one of the region’s most enchanting seaside escapes.
Things to do at Gullane Beach
With 1.5 miles of soft, golden sand and gentle, clear waters, Gullane Beach is a dreamy spot for those seeking tranquillity. It’s the perfect location for indulging in a quiet afternoon picnic, enjoying an ice cream from the van by the car park, or setting off on a long walk toward the dramatic headland of Gullane Point. The views across the Firth of Forth are breathtaking every season, making this a year-round destination for beach lovers.
Families will find plenty to do – rock pools ready for exploration, steady breezes ideal for kite flying, and even the Gullane Cave, a natural feature best visited when the tide is out for a true sense of seaside adventure. Water sports enthusiasts can take to the waves for windsurfing or even snorkelling in the calmer bays, and this dog-friendly beach is a haven for your furry best friend. The beach comes alive in August each year, as it hosts the Gullane Beach Triathlon, which is widely regarded as one of the most scenic triathlons in the UK and an incredible sight to behold.
Make sure you explore the village of Gullane during your visit. It boasts a selection of charming cafés and independent shops and is home to the internationally renowned Muirfield Golf Club – one of the most prestigious courses in the world.
How to get to Gullane Beach
Gullane Beach is a 50-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre. East Coast buses also run regular services just a short walk to and from the beach.
The best beaches in Edinburgh: Seacliff Beach
The unforgettable blend of natural drama and quiet solitude makes Seacliff one of the best hidden-gem beaches in Edinburgh.
Things to do at Seacliff Beach
Located near Auldhame, near the charming seaside town of North Berwick, this private beach is rocky, wild and untamed. It exudes raw beauty, framed by rugged cliffs and weathered rocks. Its peaceful, remote setting makes it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the elements. Surfing and kayaking are popular here when conditions allow, and the beach is equally appealing for quiet contemplation or a sandy walk with the dog.
One of Seacliff’s most charming and curious features is its tiny sandstone harbour – the smallest in the UK. Hand-carved into the rock in the 1800s, it still shelters the occasional boat and is a popular spot with photographers. Nearby, Bass Rock and the crumbling ruins of Tantallon Castle stand proudly, their silhouettes adding to the beach’s dramatic skyline.
How to get to Seacliff Beach
Seacliff Beach is 50 minutes from Edinburgh by car. While public transport is an option, this hidden gem is a little trickier to get to, requiring a combination of train, bus and walking, making Seacliff feel like a secret waiting to be discovered.
The best beaches in Edinburgh: Cramond Beach
A cherished retreat for both locals and visitors, Cramond Beach offers a unique blend of seaside serenity and historical intrigue. This charming coastal spot is rich in character, attracting walkers, cyclists, and curious explorers to its scenic esplanade.
Things to do at Cramond Beach
One of Cramond’s most iconic features is the causeway to Cramond Island, a hidden isle accessible only at low tide. Lined with haunting WWII-era pylons, the crossing is both thrilling and mysterious. However, visitors must plan carefully—the tide returns quickly, and safety is paramount. Visitors have been known to get stranded on the island, so we recommend checking the Beach Guide website ahead of your visit. Once on the island, you’ll find remnants of a wartime bunker and a sense of isolation that feels far removed from the bustle of the city.
The esplanade is a popular route for walking, cycling, and running. Each Saturday morning, locals gather here for the Cramond Parkrun, a vibrant weekly 5k running event that winds along the waterfront. For those searching for a more leisurely pace, the path that follows the River Almond offers a different journey through woodland trails and past the tranquil Cramond Falls.
How to get to Cramond Beach
Cramond Beach is just a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh and has a designated beach car park. It can be accessed by public transport, but it requires a combination of buses and walking.
The best beaches in Edinburgh:Yellowcraig Beach
Nestled along the shores of East Lothian, close to North Berwick, Yellowcraig Beach is a picturesque escape that feels worlds away from the buzz of Scotland’s capital city. A haven of natural beauty, this is one of the best beaches in Edinburgh and a firm favourite among locals and tourists. It offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views and serenity that draws visitors year-round.
Things to do at Yellowcraig Beach
As you approach Yellowcraig Beach, the first thing that strikes you is the expansive golden sands, stretching out towards the horizon. The beach is framed by dunes, which provide a sheltered and tranquil setting, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. The water here is clear and calm, ideal for a refreshing swim or paddling in the shallows.
Yellowcraig is an excellent spot for outdoor activities. The beach is popular with walkers, offering a scenic route along the shore. For those who enjoy cycling, there are paths wind through the nearby woodlands and dunes, perfect for a leisurely ride. The area is also a haven for wildlife, with seabirds frequently soaring overhead and seals often spotted basking on the rocks.
After a day exploring and (hopefully) soaking up the sun, you can visit the nearby village of Dirleton. The village is home to the impressive Dirleton Castle, a beautiful and historic landmark, as well as a selection of quaint shops and cafés where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.
How to get to Yellowcraig Beach
Yellowcraig Beach is a 50-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre. Alternatively, you can take an East Coast Bus towards North Berwick, where the beach is a 25-minute walk from the stop.
Experience the best of both worlds with a stay at The Bonham
Staying at The Bonham means you will be ideally located to experience the best of both worlds – the city’s vibrant atmosphere and rich history – and then venture further afield for a day of adventure at one of the best beaches in Edinburgh. With easy access to both the city and the coast, you can make the most of your stay with the perfect mix of city life and seaside tranquillity. Check our availability, and start planning your unique city break in Edinburgh with us today.