Beaches beyond the beaten path

The South of Scotland is a land of captivating contrasts, where historic towns and rolling hills meet an enchanting coastline with beaches that remain refreshingly quiet and unspoiled. Here, there is space to explore, to breathe, to be. From serene coves to windswept stretches of sand, these lesser-known beaches offer a tranquil escape, far from the crowds. Perfect for any time of year, they’re havens for relaxing strolls and coastal picnics in summer, while in the colder months, their wild, untamed charm provides a stunning backdrop for invigorating walks, surfing and wildlife spotting. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a new place to explore, these best-kept coastal secrets have something special to offer.

Monreith, near Port William

Get your tidal timings right and there are four beaches to be explored if you head out for low tide. It may not be often you drive through a golf course to catch the waves but tucked away at the back of St Medan Golf Course is a secluded beach with parking and a toilet. From here, the short path to Back or Lag Bay has fabulous caves to the side and at low tide you can walk around to the bottom of the cliff edges to explore further. Or clamber up the slopes for a birds’ eye view. If it is swimming you want, head down Mill Lane to Monreith Bay – but be mindful of the tides.

Luce Sands, Sandhead

There is a massive six miles of beach at low tide easily accessible from the village of Sandland. The Luce Sands offer the fabulous opportunity to run, jog, cartwheel unimpeded along this superb stretch of coastline. Get up early and watch the sun rise across Luce Bay or plan a long walk with a good friend for an overdue catch up.

Dhoon or Goat Well Bay, near Kirkcudbright

This small sandy beach is found adjacent to an inviting wooded area which looks out on to Nun Mill Bay where the River Dee enters the Solway Firth. Shallow waters mean there is excellent rock pooling to be had here. On a sunny day the grassy area offers the ideal picnic spot with some shade – afterwards head along the beach to do the Senwick Shore walk. If you go at low tide you can see the wreck of a wooden schooner named the Monreith that sank in 1900. There is parking and toilets.

Pease Bay, near Cockburnspath

Less than an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, Pease Bay’s white sandy beach is flanked by dramatic red Old Devonian sandstone making a striking contrast. This is part of Berwickshire’s famous geological coast. The exposed position makes this beach a top pick for surfers who come to test their mettle against the waves rolling off the North Sea down the coast. It’s proximity to the capital makes it popular with families too.

Southerness, Solway Coast

This wide sandy beach covers either side of Southerness Point, which sits within the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The lighthouse is an unusual, eye-catching square construction which dates back to 1749. Dogs are welcome year round and this is another great beach for a good long walk to blow away the cobwebs. During low tides the exposed mud flats give rise to some interesting rockpools.

Rigg Bay, Garlieston

Park in the carpark at Garlieston House (small parking fee) and wander through the grounds before coming down to the delightfully sheltered Rigg Bay Beach. This beach has a very long shallow gradient making it superb for folks with small children. This is a favourite beach with locals and offers the option of a stunning woodland walk along the shore gradually climbing to the remains of Cruggleton Castle and a stunning view out over Wigtown Bay to the Galloway Hills to the east and the Solway Firth and the Isle of Whithorn to the south.

Ardwell Bay Beach, Rhins of Galloway

This is a real hidden gem of a beach offering a scenic seaside escape on the Rhins of Galloway peninsula. You will feel this is your own private beach on this expanse of sand and shingle that is fringed by rugged cliffs and rolling green countryside. Look out towards Northern Ireland as you wade, swim or paddle through the clear waters. There are fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life to be explored and this is an ideal spot for beach combing! Keep your eyes peeled on the water as marine mammals such as seals and dolphins have been spotted here. You can also do a walk to nearby Dhoon Broch. There is a small car park with public toilets.

Coldingham Sands, Scottish Borders

Okay, this is in fact the best known of the beaches in the South of Scotland. But it is a firm favourite and a consistent winner of Best Beach awards. Popular with families and day trippers in the summer it is known for surfing, and even wild swimming in the winter. It is a gorgeous wrap around beach dropping down from the Berwickshire Coastal Path. The beach is also noteworthy for having disabled access wheelchairs.

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