Seven beaches you won't believe are in Scotland

Fancy some sea and sand minus the charter flight? We've found seven dreamy Scottish coastal escapes within a few hours' drive

West Sands Beach, St Andews

Made famous by the opening sequence of Oscar-winning film Chariots of Fire, West Sands is Scotland’s largest and best-known beach stretching two miles along the Fife coast with the pretty University town to one side and the swirling seas to the other. It’s also a popular spot for kitesurfing and land yachting, if you’re of the active persuasion.

East Beach at Lossiemouth, Moray 

Up in the north east, Moray boasts two stunning beaches flanking the harbour at Lossie. For pretty stretches of white sand, head to the east. And make sure you stop off at Miele’s for a scoop of their delicious gelato.

Rockcliffe Beach, near Dalbeattie

Set in a picturesque seaside village, Rockcliffe is a wonderful wee beach. Explore the wooded coastal walkway which meanders for about 5km or visit the bird sanctuary on Rough Island, which can be reached on foot at low tide. 

Camusdarach Beach, Morar

Over on the west coast, just south of the estuary of River Morar, near Mallaig, Camusdarach is a vision of glistening sands and sparkling clear water, forming part of a string of beautiful beaches known as the Silver Sands of Morar. The views are incredible taking in the jaggy outline of Skye’s Cuillin mountain range, the rugged blue peaks of Rum and the steep sea cliff of Eigg.  

Aberdeen Beach

A city beach with spade-loads of charm, we love the art deco style esplanade at Aberdeen beach. The golden coastline stretches 3km and is one of the best places to see bottlenose dolphins in the summer. 

Coldingham Sands, Eyemouth

Just over an hour’s drive from the capital, Coldingham is one of several pristine beaches quietly situated along the Berwickshire coast. The pretty beach lined with colourful beach huts is a must-visit destination, whether you fancy a stroll, a paddle in the rock pools or hitting the surf. 

Seacliff, East Lothian

We couldn’t do a beach countdown without including our personal favourite. Nestled in a quiet bay four miles east of popular seaside town, North Berwick, Seacliff is a hidden gem popular with those in the know like anglers and seakayakers. Pay the £2 access, take a short stroll through the woods and you’ll be rewarded with a deserted stretch of wide sandy beach and the most stunning views of Bass Rock.  

For more information on Scotland’s best beaches and recommendations on where to stay, go to visitscotland.com.