A staggering 52 Scottish beaches were recognised in this year’s Scotland’s Beach Awards, including 10 near Edinburgh.
The annual awards are overseen by charity Keep Scotland Beautiful for over 30 years and aims to ‘helps visitors and locals chose where they want to visit’ and set a ‘benchmark for quality’.
Barry Fisher, chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “Scotland’s award-winning beaches demonstrate excellent beach management and we hope that all who visit this year play their part in keeping them beautiful.
“I’d like to congratulate all those who do so much to protect, maintain and enhance our beaches, protecting the sand and sea for us all to enjoy – from the local authorities to the communities who care so passionately about these phenomenal assets.”
Vicki Miller, chief executive of VisitScotland, added: “Scotland has thousands of miles of coastline, providing a huge choice of beaches to enjoy stunning scenery and unique experiences. Whether visitors are looking for tranquil islands and rural escapes or the bustling cities and towns boasting serene shores, there is something for everyone.
Here are 10 beaches near Edinburgh named in Scotland’s Beach Awards 2025, with review notes from Keep Scotland Beautiful.
5. Gullane Bens
The wide sandy bay at Gullane is one of the most popular beaches in the east of Scotland, attracting locals, and visitors alike. It is popular for walkers, kite-surfers, horse riders and just about everyone else on a fine summer's day | EduardoRM/ Getty Images
6. Dunbar East Beach
Dunbar East beach can be a sandy beach, a rocky beach, or a bit of both, as it is quickly affected by either the building or erosive power of the sea. It is actively managed by East Lothian Council in partnership with the Dunbar Shore and Harbour Neighbourhood Improvement Group Photo: Google Maps
7. Longniddry Bents in Gosford
This long sandy and rocky beach is close to a nature reserve and there are a lot of birds to be seen feeding when the tide is out. It is a great beach for blustery walks, horse rides and dog exercising during the winter as well as family visits in the summer. The beach is also popular with kite surfers and windsurfers. Excellent sandwiches and cakes are available in the nearby village of Longniddry Photo: Google Maps
8. North Berwick West Beach
North Berwick West Beach has a long stretch of sand with views to the island of Craigleith and Bass Rock. It is a popular family beach providing an ideal location for sunbathing, bird watching, paddling, picnics and dog walking. Behind the beach is a putting green that is open during the summer months | Submitted