Coastal Stays in the South of Scotland

Fancy a room with a sea view? A balcony with a salty breeze? Access to the beach from your room? If you are looking for somewhere to stay on or near the coast, the South of Scotland is for you.

From lighthouses to holiday parks, glamping huts to self-catering cottages by the beach, there are so many options it is hard to know where to begin. But we’ve pulled together some favourites and hope you will enjoy choosing your coastal stay, here where Scotland Starts!

Holiday parks and caravan sites

There are plenty of amazing holiday parks and caravan sites all along our coastline – and they all have fantastic views!

Top marks for Burrowhead Holiday Village which offers lodge, caravan, motorhome and tent holidays, all with a stunning outlook across the Solway Firth to the Isle of Man. Set on 100 acres and open year round there are coastal views aplenty from this clifftop idyll. Further west in the stunning Machars peninsula, the sunlight glints off Luce Bay in front of the family-run West Barr Holiday Park. For over 60 years, this spot has been much beloved by those in the know.

Gaze across to Wigtown and the Isle of Whithorn from Auchenlarie Holiday Park. This firm favourite offers an onsite fitness suite including a heated indoor pool, sauna, gym and solarium. There is an arcade, soft play area, outdoor play areas, resident entertainers and cabaret artists – plenty to keep the whole family entertained. And of course there are those amazing sea views – on a clear day you can see all the way to the Isle of Man. 

Over on the far south-east coast of the Scottish Borders, Bee Edge Caravan Site offers hard-standing pitches with sea views, a dog exercise area and free Wi Fi. Right on the outskirts of a working family farm on the scenic Berwickshire Coast, you also have easy access to nearby Coldingham and Coldingham Bay, which enjoys a reputation a sone of the UK’s best beaches. Just along the coastline and close to the border with England, Shepherd’s Rest campsite offers options for campers and glampers alike. Choose to pitch a tent, or enjoy a stay in their cosy Shepherd’s Hut. Kids will enjoy meeting the friendly farm animals. Plus, with easy access to Burnmouth and Eyemouth, you’ll never run out of places to explore.

Romantic retreats for couples

A coastal holiday isn’t just fun for the family! For the perfect coastal getaway bolthole for two try Number 7 Ninian’s Landing. This stylish one bedroom first floor apartment is located on the harbourside in picturesque the Isle of Whithorn.

Direct beach access, a private chef, and miles of coastal trails to explore. That’s on offer at Knockinaam’s Luxury Lodges. Knockinaam already has a repoutation for 5-star accommodation and food in its hotel but Shingle and Seall Lodges offer a more private escape with all the amenities. If you want to be close but not quite on the beach, Drumburn at Galloway Coast Cottages in Rockcliffe is a studio, offering a retreat from the busy beach front while still being an easy walk – and it accepts dogs.

For those wanting a perfect sandy beach nearby, book Fisher’s Brae Cottage. Tucked away off the main street of the bustling seaside village of Coldingham, this cosy seaside bolthole is just a mile to Coldingham Bay where the fresh and invigorating sea waters and golden sands await.

Extra space for larger parties

Whether you are accommodating multiple generations or a group of old friends with families, try the quartet of self-catering holiday cottages at Ross Bay Retreat. Everyone has their own space but there is super direct access to the beach, which you’ll almost certainly have to yourself. And if there are youngsters visiting, the cottages are situated on a family farm, with plenty of animals to see.

Butterfly Lodges can sleep 11 in two lodges at Kippford Holiday Park. This area is always a crowd pleaser for coastal activities and fun – walk to Rockcliffe, out to Rough Island or explore the Mote of Mark. Pets are also welcome so no need to leave your pooch behind.

Or you could take over the six-bedrooms at Cavens Country House for a couple of nights – dinner is included so plenty of time to sit back and relax and enjoy the estate’s grounds and nearby coastline – beachcombing anyone?

Merchant’s House in Eyemouth is decorated in a period style, and sleeps up to 11 guests, making it an ideal location for a gatherings with families or friends, special birthdays or anniversaries. Originally built for a well-known tea smuggler, this house has history in abundance and a stellar view of the harbour and coastline stretching northwards.

Tower Farm Holidays is situated close to the Berwickshire coastline with views out to the North Sea. The holiday houses can be booked separately or together, so can take parties of 10 to 20. Both have their own large secure gardens with BBQs and garden furniture with plenty of space to kick back and relax with family or friends.

Fancy somewhere unusual?

How about getting a bird’s eye view out to sea? Then head to Caerlaverock Estate, six miles south of Dumfries. Surrounded on all sides by stunning scenery, The Treehouse and its neighbour, the Curve, have far-reaching views over the Solway Estuary and certainly have the wow factor on arrival.

Make your next family getaway that little bit extra and stay at Nisbet’s Tower in Eyemouth. This cosy, historic yet modern cottage in a unique tower is a super location for break away. The cottage sleeps four and is set on the edge of Eyemouth overlooking the harbour. Head down to feed the seals, eat ice cream and enjoy the Smuggler’s walking trail around town.

Stay in the converted rooms of a lighthouse keeper’s cottage at the Corsewall Lighthouse Hotel near Stranraer. The lighthouse was built in 1815 by the grandfather of Robert Louis Stevenson of Treasure Island fame and still lights the way for marine traffic today. Rooms are a mix of using the old lightkeeper’s apartments and larger suites in cottages on the site. The restaurant is well known for its five-course meals using local ingredients, so savour the flavours and enjoy the views from this special coastal retreat.

The ultimate get away from it all

Sea views, space to play, and so much to explore that you’ll never want your stay to end? Well, Orroland could be the place for you. It boasts three cottages set on a secluded 500-acre estate on the beautiful Solway Firth. Beyond the stunning location, Orroland is a dream for nature lovers: Wildflower meadows and land art installations invite wildlife to roam. Additionally, guests have access to a private loch and their own stretch of coastline, perfect for rock-pooling.

If it’s the uninterrupted views and rural idyl that puts your mind at ease on holiday, then head to the Rhins of Galloway. Here, Little Laight Cottage is set in a remote location overlooking Loch Ryan in South West Scotland. It sleeps six and is close to walking routes such as the Southern Upland Way.

Want that extra touch of luxury while retaining great access to the coast and beach walks? Moorside Cottage in Eastriggs offers a quiet getaway with a little bit of luxury in the form of a professional chef on hand to cook your meals. Plus, furry family members are also welcome to stay!

Families Will Love

There’s nothing like a coastal holiday! What can make it even better is plenty of space to play for the little ones, with peace and quiet to truly relax. Luckily, the South of Scotland has plenty of options.

Wake up to the gentle sounds of the River Nith. Erriff, is a holiday home set right on its banks, with the river meeting the sea not far away. Located in Glencaple, Dumfries is not far away boasting a variety of attractions for those rare rainy days. Even better is nearby Caerlaverock Estate. Families can explore the ancient castle or watch out for wildlife at the Wetland Centre.

If the main requirement for the family holiday is a beach on your doorstep, then the aptly named Beach Cottage in Sandhead is perfect. Nearly seven miles of beach is in front of you, the village has a well stocked shop, a good pub and a children’s playpark only a short stroll from the cottage.

Over in the Machars, The View Garlieston offers wide-ranging views across its harbour. It also offers all the amenities a young family might need. From cots to high chairs – and even an enclosed garden – parents can feel well looked after. From the village, a variety of short and long walks are perfect for exploring the coastline and soaking up the views.

Want to feel like you’re on the edge of the world for your family holiday? How about a traditional fisherman’s cottage in the Rhins of Galloway. Rosebank and New Breeze sit right on the coast in the quiet village of Port Logan. Watch the boats in the harbour or try your hand at rock or beach fishing. Those especially keen can even arrange for boat trips!

BYOB – bring your own boat!

Port Logan was the filming location of BBC Scotland’s Two Thousand Acres of Sky and the landscape lives up to its name. At Curlew Cottage, the long, wide beach is on your doorstep. The cottage offers a secure outside area with seating and barbecue. This area is great for sea anglers, walkers, birdwatchers & families looking for something different away from the crowds. Attractions like the Logan Fish Pond and Logan Botanic Gardens are nearby. There is a free to use slipway in Port Logan for those who would like to bring their boat for a bit of fishing. Subject to availability, guests may be able to take advantage of the owners’ tractor launching facility – contact in advance.

Perhaps you’d rather head to Brighouse Bay Holiday Cottages near Kirkcudbright with their expansive views over the bay – bring your dinghy and launch from the free-to-use slipway nearby – or head to the beach for a stroll or some splashing about!

If you enjoyed this blog, here’s some more coastal inspiration…

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Exploring Eyemouth
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The Lighthouses of the Rhins of Galloway
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10 Spectacular Coastal walks in the South