Edinburgh's Portobello beach can join the line-up of Scotland's best beaches as it's just been crowned the most popular of Scottish shores for 2021!
Located just a few miles outside of Edinburgh's city centre, it's not difficult to see why this spot is a hit with locals and visitors alike, considering it boasts two miles of golden sands, swim-friendly waters and a promenade where you'll find plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and even a few sporting events or two.
Then of course its proximity to the city centre is ideal for those wanting to make a mini break of it - you may want to check out our Edinburgh city guide for top tips on the best places to visit, as well the restaurants and bars you won't want to miss.
Portobello was crowned the winner in new top 10 rankings, revealed in research from Holidu. To determine the best spots, the study focused on which Scottish beaches have been seeing the most interest from holidaymakers over the last 12 months.
Portobello beach wasn't the only Edinburgh spot to make the cut - Cramond Beach also featured in the top 10. The beach alongside this charming old fishing village in the city's suburbs may not be the largest beach, but it offers up some beautiful coastal views and has long been a favourite with those looking for a scenic, leisurely stroll.
Still, it wasn't just Edinburgh that wowed.
The silver medal for Scotland's most popular beaches went to Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris, and it's easy to see why this spot never fails to wow its visitors.
One of our top pick of UK beaches that could be in the Caribbean, this white sands beach is surrounded by breathtaking unspoiled nature, from the rock landscape to the bursts of lush green settings. It's also a popular spot with birdwatchers. As for swimming? Well, you can take to the waters but be warned - this may look like a Caribbean beach, but the waters are very cold!
Another beach that also impressed was Sandwood Bay, which took the third spot in the top 10 rankings.
This remote beach in Sutherland is always popular with adventurers, and not just because of its remote location that means you're unlikely to find big crowds in the area. The bay is also surrounded by myths and legends, spanning everything from tales of ghosts and shipwrecks to mermaid sightings.
You can check out the full top 10 list below...
Scotland's top 10 most popular beaches
- Portobello Beach, Edinburgh
- Luskentyre Beach, Harris
- Sandwood Bay, Sutherland
- Camusdarach Beach, Arisaig
- Achmelvich Bay, Ullapool
- Cramond Beach, Edinburgh
- Lunan Bay, Angus
- Gullane Beach, Gullane
- Coldingham Bay, Scottish Borders
- Pease Bay, Scottish Borders
If you're after a beach day out and want to get a feel for the area, then you may want to check out our sister site 2Chill where both locals and holidaymakers have been sharing their top tips.
This includes everything from an area's best attractions, to the local foodie spots that you'll want to bookmark. Found a really great spot in your adventures? You can also share your own recommendations.
You can also find more staycation inspiration in our UK holidays page which we regularly update with the latest deals, destination guides and quirky accommodation ideas we think you'll love.
Is there a beach you think should have made the cut? Let us know in the comments below.
