Getting organised for a family (or even solo) holiday can end up being a marathon task. Consider skipping the long airport queues and trying one of these beautiful beaches a little closer to home with a staycation in Scotland!
Scotland is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes, and its beaches are not to be missed. That’s why Holidu, the search engine for holiday rentals, found out which are the must-visit beaches in Scotland this year, creating the perfect bucket list to start planning your trip with.
1. Portobello Beach, Edinburgh
One of the most searched for beaches in Scotland is Portobello Beach in Edinburgh. This beach is an absolute hit with locals and tourists alike as soon as temperatures hit double figures (and even for fresh, breezy walks when not!). The beach promenade is lined with a selection of cafes, restaurants and ice cream shops. Edinburgh is the perfect destination to secure a delightful city break and a beach holiday all rolled into one!
2. Luskentyre Beach, Harris
White sand, crystal clear water and mountain views – what more could you want from a Scottish staycation? The breathtaking landscape of Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris is an absolute must for anyone looking to experience Caribbean vibes from the comfort of Scotland.
3. Sandwood Bay, Sutherland
In third place is Sandwood Bay Beach, located in Sutherland on the far north-west coast of Scotland. This picturesque beach is 1.5 miles of wide pink sand backed by huge sand dunes and a freshwater loch and is widely considered to be one of the most unspoilt beaches in the whole of mainland Britain.
4. Camusdarach Beach, Arisaig
Camusdarach Beach is an arc of white, glistening sand and clear water just south of the estuary of River Morar. It boasts unrivalled views of the Isle of Skye, Rum and Eigg, making it the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy the Scottish landscape at its best. Enjoy swimming, rock pooling or a relaxing walk along the beach.
5. Achmelvich Bay, Ullapool
Achmelvich Beach is a stunning, Blue Flag awarded white sandy beach on the rural west coast. This is a popular spot with water skiers, windsurfers and kayakers, making Achmelvich a bustling and lively beach during the summer months. Furthermore, the beach is popular with fishing enthusiasts and the surrounding area is perfect for hikers. There’s something for everyone!
6. Cramond Beach, Edinburgh
Situated near the suburbs of outer Edinburgh, Cramond Beach is a small sandy beach and a favourite with families, runners, dog walkers and cyclists who can enjoy the views of the beach from the promenade. There is also plenty to do nearby, with the historic village of Cramond home to a quaint pub and coffee shop, as well as its close proximity to Edinburgh city centre.
7. Lunan Bay, Angus
Lunan Bay beach is located on the dramatic Angus coastline and is backed by sand dunes and low cliffs to the north and south. Lunan Bay is popular with surfers and horse riders, as well as those looking to try their luck at a spot of fishing. This beach is steeped in history, with its visitors including Viking armies in the 10th century.
8. Gullane Beach, Gullane
Gullane is best known for its golf courses, but the gorgeous sandy beach is another sight not to be missed on your staycation! With excellent views out onto the Firth of Forth, the beach is a popular location for windsurfing and kite flying when the weather is windy, as well as for picnics and family days out when the sun is shining.
9. Coldingham Bay, Scottish Borders
The first of our two beaches located in the Scottish Borders, Coldingham Bay is an inlet in the North Sea coast, just over three kilometres north of the town of Eyemouth. The beach is 1 kilometre long and is made up of clean sand and plenty of grassy areas behind the beach, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sunshine. Kids will enjoy a day spotting hermit crabs in the rock pools.
10. Pease Bay, Scottish Borders
Stealing the final spot on our top 10 Scottish staycation list is Pease Bay, a bay located in the Scottish Borders. The area is a notable surfing holiday destination in Scotland and is ideally located with the Berwickshire Coastline only being a short drive from Edinburgh and also within easy reach of North East England.
Looking for more staycation ideas? Try our dog-friendly holidays at home or British and Irish foraging holidays.
