A total of 51 picturesque beaches across Scotland were recognised last year by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful – and eight of them are just a short drive from Edinburgh.
Scotland's Beach Awards celebrates the achievements of well-managed beaches across the country, ensuring visitors and local residents can choose where they want to visit with the knowledge that the beach is being looked after for both the people who enjoy it and the environment
A map showing all the award-winning beaches with directions, facilities and images can be found at www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/beach.
Scroll through our photo gallery see the 8 beaches near Edinburgh named as winners at the Scotland’s Beach Awards 2024.
5. Dunbar East Beach
Dunbar East Beach was just one of the East Lothian beauty spots granted the prestigious Scotland’s Beach Award. This beautiful beach, which has plenty of rock pools to explore, is only a five minute walk from Dunbar's High Street. Photo: Google Maps
6. North Berwick Milsey Bay
This award-winning beach in North Berwick has stunning views of the Firth of Forth and Bass Rock. Milsey Bay is a lovely spot for a family day-out, with lots of rock pools to explore and sandy spots for a picnic. Photo: Pat Christie
7. Gullane Bents
This sandy spot in East Lothian has won the Scotland’s Beach Award 31 years in a row. Gullane Bents is a popular beach for walking, sunbathing and windsurfing and has epic views over the Firth of Forth. Photo: Pascale H/CC
8. Longniddry Bents
Longniddry Bents is another award-winning East Lothian beach. The stunning beach is popular with watersport lovers, including kite-surfers, canoeists and windsurfers. Photo: Google Maps