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.
9. Aberdour Black Sands
This is a small and secluded stretch of sand with rocky outcrops nestling on the south side of the village of Aberdour. Its natural features make it popular with the visitor and local alike providing an ideal natural retreat | Richard Newton Photo: Richard Newton
10. Longniddry Bents
This beach has a mix of both sand and rocks to guddle about in providing an ideal location for family day trips. The nearby caravan park has an amusement arcade and other facilities and is the nearest access point by public transport from Edinburgh | Google Maps Photo: Google Maps