Aberdour (Black Sands)

If you enjoy small, quiet bays, Aberdour Black Sands is a great choice to spend a few hours. The views of the Firth of Forth are excellent, and as the tide goes out a long way, there’s ample sand for pleasant walks. There’s a small and pretty harbour with boats and attractive buildings, plus the old wooden pier. There are views to Incholm Island and the Abbey, with Edinburgh in the background.

It’s a popular location for photographers and artists who enjoy the light, as well as families enjoying picnics, shrimping, and looking for sea glass. It’s a dog-friendly beach too, and you’re likely to encounter dog walkers at all times of year. Parts of the beach are also a designated bathing area between 1 June and 15 September; visitors are advised to check the exact location. 

The path can be a little slippery due to the seaweed and parking may be busy, but the train station is only ten minutes away.

Black Sands regularly wins regional awards for the cleanliness of the beach; including the Keep Scotland Beautiful 2018 Beach Award, and the toilets achieved Platinum in the National Loo of the Year Awards for 2019!