Edinburgh has a number of outdoor spots that are great for relaxing, but sometimes when the sun is scorching down on us city folks we just can’t resist the lure of the seaside. And when it comes to lovely beaches within a reasonable distance of town, we really are spoilt for choice. Here’s our pick of the best…
Portobello – The City One
Located just three miles out of the city centre, Portobello is Edinburgh’s most accessible beach. It’s fronted by a Victorian promenade, and the lovely sandy beach is great for a walk with the dog or a bit of a swim. The town itself has a nice relaxed vibe, and there’s an old-fashioned arcade at the end of the prom for anyone craving a bit of traditional seaside entertainment.
Cramond – The One with an Island
This popular beach, four miles from Edinburgh, has had a major clean up in recent years. The wide promenade is great for a relaxing walk by the sea, or a stroll down to the harbour to admire the colourful boats, but the highlight is walking out along the exposed path to the tiny, uninhabited Cramond Island at low tide. The crossing only takes about 20 minutes, but make sure you pay attention to the tide timetables before you go or you may find yourself unexpectedly spending the night there.
Yellowcraigs – The Award Winning One
This gorgeous beach was awarded ‘best UK beach for urbanites in search of the sea’ by Conde Nast Traveller, and it’s really not hard to see why. Fringed with a layer of dunes, grasslands and forest, the miles of golden sand provide the space needed to accommodate its many visitors. The large car park sits next to a BBQ area and an adventure playground, so you can spend the whole day there without the kids getting bored. Look out for the island of Fidra to the North West – it is said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s book Treasure Island.
Gullane Bents – The Beautiful One
Gullane itself is a gorgeous little town, and Gullane Bents, just a short walk from the town centre, most certainly doesn’t disappoint. This beautiful, long beach is flanked by golden sand dunes and grasslands, and is especially popular with families as it’s extremely well-maintained and safe. Surfers occasionally gather there when the conditions are right, and it’s known to be especially good for beginners due to its relatively sheltered location. Lovely for a wander, a swim, or watching the sunset.
Aberlady Bay – The Secluded One
A 40 minute stroll along a wooden boardwalk leads you to this delightfully secluded, sandy beach. It’s perfect for swimming, picnicking and relaxing, and you don’t tend to get the large crowds here, as many people are put off by the long walk in (which isn’t really suitable for young children). But actually, the walk itself is what makes Aberlady Bay so special, as it takes you through a nature reserve that is home to a huge variety of plants, birds and animals. It’s the most peaceful beach around – great if you’re looking to escape the rest of the world for a day.
Photo: Martin Burns
