Get Set for a Sizzling Summer Staycation on the Shores of Scotland
Make the most of the sun on Scotland’s stunning beaches
A sandy beach on the Isle of Tiree
As the country basks in sunshine, enjoying a sharp turn towards warmer weather, following what was widely reported to be the coldest May in 25 years*, thoughts will be moving towards making the most of the summer sun.
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. Read on to discover some of Scotland’s exceptional seaside locations, paired with conveniently close accommodation – all still offering availability for those last-minute bookings.
Ganavan Bay, Argyll & Bute
This sheltered, sandy beach offers beautiful views over the Isle of Mull and is perfect for shallow swimming, rock pooling and paddleboarding. Close by is the seaside town of Oban, the perfect location to enjoy fish and chips after a day of watersports at the beach.
Where to stay: Barriemore B&B, which overlooks Oban Bay, is ideally situated in between Ganvan Bay and Oban, allowing guests to easily enjoy the benefits of the restaurants and shops in Oban while offering ease of access to the beach.
Hackley Bay, Aberdeenshire
Hidden away in Forvie Nature Reserve and only accessible by foot along a cliff path, Hackley Bay is a true hidden gem. This sandy beach is sheltered by cliffs and backed by high sand dunes, making it the perfect secret escape before a second stop in Balmedie to enjoy fish and chips on the golden shores of Balmedie Beach.
Where to stay: As this hidden gem is so perfectly tucked away accommodation is found a short drive from the Forvie Nature Reserve. The Cock and Bull is a family run country inn and gastropub offering a seasonally changing menu using locally sourced ingredients.
Aberdeen Beach
For a moment of calm amidst a busy day of drinking in the city vibes of Aberdeen, ranging from culture at the Aberdeen Art Gallery’s new exhibition British Art Show 9 (running 10 July – 10 October) to delicious seafood at the Moonfish Café, head to Aberdeen Beach. Offering sandy shores on a warm day this city beach displays otherwordly views during the ‘blue hour’ twilight. The most lucky of visitors may even catch a glimpse the dolphins which live in these waters. Aberdeen Beach was named a winner in the 2021 Scotland Beach Awards, celebrating the excellence of good quality, sustainable beaches.
Where to stay: Brewdog Kennels offer stylish rooms and craft beer in a city centre location, within walking distance of the beach.
Waulkmill beach, Orkney
Tucked away, down a small side road before following steep steps to the shore, Waulkmill is one of the biggest beaches in the islands, with a beautiful stretch of sand taking up the bay at low tide, leading towards the clear waters of Scapa Flow, which are shallow enough to make them ideal for paddling.
Where to stay: Lindisfarne B&B, Stromness offers views over Scapa Flow. The town of Stromness is only one mile away, while the beach is just a short drive.
Minn beach, Burra, Shetland
One of Shetland’s most beautiful beaches, at the southernmost part of West Burra, can be reached via a footpath which leads to both the curved beach and onto Kettla Ness peninsula. This wild Atlantic-facing headland is home to a wide variety of breeding moorland and coastal birds, with sightings of seals a regular occurrence around the shoreline.
Where to stay: Minn Beach is just a 20 minute drive from Lerwick’s many accommodation options. The Lerwick Hotel overlooks Breiwick Bay and is well located for coastal walks.
Rockcliffe Beach, Dumfries and Galloway
Rockcliffe, located on the southern edge of Dumfries and Galloway, in what is known as the ‘Scottish Riviera’ where the effects of the Gulf Stream create a warm climate, is part of a National Scenic Area. Visitors to the area can enjoy the wooded coastal walkway running between sailing villages and the nearby ancient citadel, Mote of Mark, situated on a nearby rocky outcrop.
Where to stay: The Anchor Hotel Kippford is a traditional coaching inn located a 10 minute drive from the beach.
Nairn Beach, Highlands
Located just half an hour drive from the city sights of Inverness and directly next to the seaside town of Nairn, Nairn Central Beach is a long sandy stretch of coast backed by low sand dunes. Also nearby are Nairn East Beach and Nairn West Beach, offering plenty of coastline for visitors to enjoy. Wildlife lovers can look out for the resident dolphin pod in these waters, while enjoying spectacular views out to the Moray Firth.
Where to stay: The Bandstand is a family run pub-hotel, boasting panoramic sea views, located just a short walk away from the beach.
Tiree
Tiree is an outstanding destination for those seeking sandy shores; with 15 beaches to choose from and the Gulf Stream bringing a warm climate to the area. Watersports fans will be delighted to discover Tiree is known not only for its warmth but for its wind, creating the perfect environment for surfing. Visit Blackhouse Watersports on Balevullin Beach to try out surfing on Tiree.
Where to stay: Tiree Lodge Hotel is a family run hotel with beautiful beach and sea views. The Reef Inn , which still has some limited summer availability left, is a newly opened and, proudly eco friendly hotel with a highly insulated, energy efficient build, including air source heat for the underfloor heating.
Pettycur Bay by Kinghorn, Fife
This sandy beach backed by dunes is located only 10 minutes from Kinghorn Railway Station and offers stunning views across the Firth of Forth towards Edinburgh and The Lothians. On a clear day it’s possible to see Edinburgh Castle in the distance, making this beach perfect for calm reflection. At low tide, visitors can enjoy a coastal walk from Pettycur over to beautiful and family friendly Burntisland Beach.
Where to stay: The Bay Hotel is a family run hotel which enjoys views over Pettycur Bay and the Firth of Forth.
Image provided by Fife Council
ENDS
For further ideas, stories, images or advice, please contact:
Lyndsey Richardson
VisitScotland
lyndsey.richardson@visitscotland.com / 07785 727134
Notes to Editors
* https://metro.co.uk/2021/05/22/june-to-bring-16-day-heatwave-after-coldest-may-in-25-years-14627247/
Scotland is gradually reopening as restrictions ease and new measures are put in place to ensure everyone’s safety. However, we continue to live in uncertain times and so we ask that responsible travel is considered paramount for anyone planning a trip to Scotland.
· All visitors to Scotland must consult the Scottish Government website at www.gov.scot, VisitScotland’s website www.visitscotland.com, the local destination website and contact their accommodation providers, transport providers and any attractions they plan to visit to ensure they are aware of all rules, restrictions and safety procedures relating to Covid-19.
· We recommend that visitors look for the Good to Go logo. This is a new industry-wide standard and consumer mark developed to demonstrate that the business has completed a Covid-19 risk assessment to ensure they have everything in place to open safely.
· International visitors should check current quarantine and government-imposed travel restrictions.
· When visiting Scotland we urge visitors to enjoy our fabulous country responsibly. VisitScotland encourages visitors to plan ahead with the help of www.visitscotland.com and by checking the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot which offers practical advice for all when enjoying Scotland’s beautiful countryside.
Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters
· Scotland’s Coasts and Waters will be showcased throughout 2021 and celebrated with a programme of activity designed to support the nation’s tourism and events sectors.
· Following input and feedback from the tourism and events industry, there was strong support and a commitment from Scottish Government to rollover the celebratory year into 2021. Work is currently ongoing to rescope and reshape the supported events programme.
· The year, led by VisitScotland will sustain and build upon the momentum of Scotland’s preceding Themed Years to spotlight, celebrate and promote opportunities to experience and enjoy Scotland’s unrivalled Coasts and Waters, encouraging responsible engagement and participation from the people of Scotland and our visitors.
· A programme of activities, events and ideas will shine a spotlight on the impact our waters have had on Scotland, from the formation of beautiful natural features to the creation of our national drink – whisky.
· Join the conversation using #YCW2021
· Following an industry consultation, the Themed Years are planned to take place every second year to enable more time for planning and collaboration. Given the impact of COVID-19 an exception will be made in 2021 with the 2020 year rolling forward. 2022 will celebrate Scotland’s Year of Stories
PLEASE NOTE
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