Scotland (including its many islands) has a coastline that stretches for just under 5,000 km and that means we have loads of incredible beaches.
From pebble and coral strewn sprawls to golden sands and pristine white beaches, there are so many stunning spots to choose from. With the weather getting better and better and the summer in full flow, most of us will be hitting the seaside at some point. Be that locally, or further afield.
Whether it be for a wander, a paddle or to soak up the rays, the beach is the perfect place to be on a warm day but don't forget there's also plenty of fascinating wildlife to look out for.
While some are just enjoyable to watch, others can be fun to catch (and release), but there are also those beasties you should definitely avoid if you can. Here's what to look out for when on the beach in Scotland.
Ones to avoid:
Spoots/Razor Clams
Absolutely delicious to eat, but be careful if you aren't wearing shoes on the beach as standing on the shell of one can make a quick mess of your feet.
Weever Fish
Usually, Scotland's colder weather is a blessing when it comes to more dangerous marine animals but as it gets warmer in the summer months, little weever fish can be found venturing north.
Innocently hiding in the sand in shallow water waiting for small shrimp to eat, standing on one, and the spike on their back can be incredibly painful. Yet another reason to wear flip-flops or sliders.
If you do stand on one, place the foot in the hottest water you can find to help reduce stop the pain.
Jelly Fish and Portuguese Man O'War
Some jellyfish can have a painful sting and are best avoided but if you come across Portuguese Men O'War (like the ones pictured above) you should definitely stay away from them as they have a very, very painful sting. Though rare, they can still appear on Scottish beaches.
Ones to look out to the sea for:
Porpoise, Dolphins, Minke Whales and Basking Sharks
From the smallest, the Harbour Porpoise, to the largest, basking sharks, there are several types of marine mammals and sharks you might be able to spot if you are lucky at Scottish beaches.
White-beaked and common dolphins are common, while Minke Whales will also regularly put in an appearance.
Sea Eagles
Mostly found on the west coast, particularly on the islands of Mull and Skye, you might be lucky to catch a glimpse of one of these majestic creatures on the hunt for fish.
Seals
You'll spot these fun creatures all around the coasts of Scotland, with harbour or common seals and grey seals, the two most likely species.
Orcas
The apex predator in Scotland's seas, there are several orca pods either living in, or visiting, the waters around the Highlands and northern islands, particularly Shetland.
Ones to find on the shore in rock pools:
Shore crabs
Smaller than the larger Brown Crabs, these little creatures are fun to hunt for in rock pools and can vary in size, just remember to put them back in a decent size rock pool once the day is done if you remove them.
Starfish
One of the more exotic creatures you'll find in rockpools, these little creatures are sure to delight any children lucky enough to come across them.
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