With many families now opting for a summer staycation, we wanted to showcase the natural beauty found around the Scottish coastline that you just have to see to believe it exists this close to home.

With this in mind, we’ve gathered together five beaches found in Scotland that are worth a visit. So, if you’ve booked one of the many family holidays UK destinations have to offer, or you’re simply looking for somewhere new to explore on your next visit to Scotland, scroll down to discover more.

5 Scottish beaches you have to visit this summer

1. Broughty Ferry Beach
This award-winning beach is renowned for its golden, pristine sands, located just east of Broughty Ferry Castle, at the mouth of the Tay Estuary. Each summer, thousands flock to marvel at the view from Broughty Ferry Beach, paddle in the waters, build sandcastles, and climb the sand dunes in the hopes they are one of the lucky ones who spot a dolphin.

In the colder months, the beach becomes a haven for many migrating animals, which is also a great sight to see.

2. Kingsbarns Beach
If you’re seeking somewhere a little quieter this summer, one with a stunning backdrop for your family photos, Kingsbarns Beach could be the place for you. This two-mile stretch of golden sands is backed by low, grassy dunes, and is home to interesting rocky outcrops.

Just eight miles from St Andrews, this little patch of beach is a haven for those who are staying with not only their kids but their dogs too, as dogs are allowed here all year round.

3. Leven Beach
Located on the shores of Firth of Forth, backed by a promenade, open green space, and a golf course, Leven Beach is close to the town centre and the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking views across Firth of Forth.

The beach itself is made up of golden sands that stretch for miles – perfect for sandcastle building – and in 2023, Leven Beach won the Keep Scotland Beautiful 2023 Beach Award.

4. Lunan Bay
Known for its slices of history, dating back to the 10 th century with Viking armies, this beach is not only popular for budding historians but surfers, horse riders and fishers alike. Not only this, but Lunan Bay is the perfect place to do a spot of bird watching too, with the likes of Scoters, Red- throated Divers, Long-tailed Ducks, and Gulls flying around.

Lunan Bay is an east-facing beach that is backed by sand dunes whilst being framed by low cliffs in both the north and south.

5. Burntisland Beach
If you’re looking for an idyllic seaside retreat that offers opportunities for a paddle, swim, sandcastle building, rock pool exploration and so much more, this long stretch of beach in Fife, could be the place for you.

The beach itself is comprised of both golden sands and a few rocky sections, where dogs are allowed, but owners are encouraged to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
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Will you be taking a dip in the sea at one of these locations on your next staycation to Scotland with the family? Or will you discover another hidden gem within Scotland’s coastline?