Friday 26 June 2026
Discover Scotland’s Best Beaches, Lochs & Waterside Days Out
Scottish summer days out are all about making the most of the longer days. From golden beaches and hidden coves to paddleboarding adventures, wildlife reserves and lochside picnics, there’s no shortage of unforgettable places to explore.
To help inspire your next getaway, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite summer days out, all within easy reach of our holiday lodges and cottages. Whether you’re searching for a spectacular sunset, a family day at the beach, a peaceful waterside walk or simply the perfect spot for coffee, ice cream or a leisurely lunch, you’ll find plenty of inspiration below.
So pack your picnic blanket, grab your sunglasses and discover some of our favourite ways to enjoy a Scottish summer.
Scottish Summer Days Out in Fife
Tentsmuir Beach – 30 minute drive from Balmeadowside
Stretching for miles along the Fife coastline, Tentsmuir Beach offers a wonderful mix of golden sands, rolling dunes and peaceful pine forests. It’s the perfect place for a summer stroll, a family picnic or simply soaking up the sea air. Keep an eye out for seals basking along the shoreline before heading to Salt & Pine, a local favourite serving delicious homemade savoury and sweet crepes.
East Sands, St Andrews – 30 minute drive from Balmeadowside
Just a stone’s throw from the historic centre of St Andrews, East Sands is a fantastic family friendly beach with beautiful views across St Andrews Bay. Whether you’re building sandcastles, enjoying a paddle or walking along the coastal path, it’s an ideal summer day out. Afterwards, reward yourself with one of the famous loaded toasties from The Cheesy Toast Shack, a must visit for food lovers exploring the area (don’t forget to opt in on the seagull tax!)
Kingsbarns Beach – 40 minute drive from Balmeadowside
Frequently listed amongst Scotland’s most beautiful beaches, Kingsbarns offers a wide stretch of soft sand framed by rugged coastline and rolling countryside. The beach is perfect for long walks and peaceful afternoons by the sea, while the nearly village provides a charming stop for refreshments. Before heading back to your lodge, call in at Harbour Burger and enjoy one of their freshly prepared gourmet burgers.
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Scottish Summer Days Out in Dumfries & Galloway
St Medan’s Beach – 30 minute drive from Conifers
For one of the most memorable summer evenings in South West Scotland, make your way to St Medan’s Beach near Monreith. This secluded stretch of coastline offers beautiful sandy shores, crystal clear waters and uninterrupted views across Luce Bay. Arrive later in the day and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset as the sky glows with shades of gold, orange and pink, reflected across the calm waters below. Before heading to the beach, pick up a takeaway fish supper from the popular Central Cafe in nearby Whithorn and enjoy dinner with a view as the sun sets over the bay. Don’t forget your camera…this is the kind of place that reminds you why Scottish summers are so special.
Mossyard Beach – 20 minute drive from Conifers
Often described as one of Dumfries & Galloway’s hidden gems, Mossyard Beach is a beautiful crescent of white sand overlooking Fleet Bay. At low tide, the beach stretches out to reveal vast sands perfect for family adventures, beach games and leisurely walks along the shoreline. Surrounded by rolling countryside and coastal views, it’s easy to see why visitors return year after year. Afterwards, treat yourself to homemade ice cream or lunch at the nearby Cocoabean Company, a favourite stop for families exploring the area.
Loch Trool – 25 minute drive from Conifers
Nestled within the heart of the Galloway Forest Park, Loch Trool combines dramatic scenery with tranquil waters and some of the region’s most picturesque walking routes. Surrounded by forested hills and rich wildlife, it’s the perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Before setting off, stop by Simpsons Bakery in Newton Stewart and pick up some freshly made sandwiches, savouries and sweet treats for a picnic by the water. With breathtaking views, peaceful lochside trails and plenty of spots to sit and soak up the scenery, Loch Trool is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a summer day in the great outdoors.
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Scottish Summer Days out in The Highlands
Cromarty Beach – 50 minute drive from Kiltarlity
If you’ve been tempted by the growing popularity of coastal saunas, Cromarty is the perfect place to try one for yourself. Set beside the Cromarty Firth, this picturesque Highland village combines beautiful coastal walks, stunning sea views and the unique Cromarty Community Sauna experience. Spend the morning exploring the shoreline before enjoying the invigorating combination of sauna heat and a sea dip, all while taking in the views across the water. Round off your visit with homemade cakes, coffee or lunch in one of Cromarty’s welcoming cafes and discover why this hidden gem is becoming a favourite summer destination.
Rosemarkie Beach – 40 minute drive from Kiltarlity
With its wide stretch of golden sand and spectacular views across the Moray Firth, Rosemarkie Beach is one of the Highlands’ most loved coastal destinations. The beach is particularly famous for dolphin sightings, especially during the summer months, and offers a fantastic setting for family beach days. Afterwards, reward yourself with a Black Isle Ice Cream, renowned throughout the Highlands for its delicious artisan flavours. Available at the Rosemarkie Cafe or visit the Black Isle Dairy on your way back to Kiltarlity!
Dores Beach – 35 minute drive from Kiltarlity
Situated on the northern shores of Loch Ness, Dores Beach offers breathtaking views across Scotland’s most famous loch. The pebble beach provides the perfect spot to relax on a sunny day, skim stones across the water or simply admire the everchanging Highland scenery. Keep your eyes peeled…you never know when Nessie might make an appearance! Before heading home, enjoy refreshments overlooking the loch at the popular Dores Inn.
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Scottish Summer Days Out in Perthshire
Loch Faskally & Pitlochry – 40 minute drive from Drumfork, Drumlinn & Bleaton Hallet
Swap the beach for a paddleboard this summer and discover Loch Faskally from the water. With paddleboards, kayaks and boats available to hire from Pitlochry Boating Station, it’s a fantastic way to explore one of Perthshire’s most scenic lochs while enjoying the fresh Highland air. Whether you’re trying SUP for the first time or simply looking for a fun family activity, the loch’s calm waters make it an ideal spot for a summer adventure. Afterwards, wander into Pitlochry for a browse around the local shops and treat yourself to a well earned ice cream from Scotch Corner of Pitlochry before heading back to your accommodation.
Loch of the Lowes & Dunkeld – 40 minute drive from Drumfork, Drumlinn & Bleaton Hallet
Start your day at Loch of the Lowes, ones of Perthshire’s most beautiful wildlife reserves, where peaceful walks and stunning loch views offer the chance to spot ospreys, red squirrels and a wealth of local wildlife. Afterwards, head into nearby Dunkeld, often described as one of Scotland’s most picturesque villages. Browse the independent shops, enjoy a stroll along the River Tay and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this charming Highland town.
For couples looking for a lunch or dinner, the recently opened Azura Dunkeld offers a stylish adults only dining and drinks experience (think beach club vibes) in the heart of the village. Visiting with family? The Garden Terrace at the Atholl Arms is a fantastic choice, with plenty of outdoor seating and views towards the River Tay. Combining nature, fantastic food and one of Scotland’s prettiest villages, it’s the perfect summer day out.
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Scottish Summer Days Out in Angus
Lunan Bay & Charleton Farm – 50 minute drive from Greenmyre & Little Kenny Farms
Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s most spectacular beaches, Lunan Bay boasts miles of unspoilt golden sand backed by dunes and dramatic coastal scenery. Whether you’re taking a long walk along the shoreline, enjoying a family picnic or simply soaking up the sea views, it’s easy to spend an entire day here. Before heading back to your accommodation, make a stop at nearby Charleton Farm. Browse the farm shop, enjoy a late lunch or coffee in the cafe and be sure the sample one of their strawberry tarts, a summer favourite packed with their homegrown strawberries. For families, the free playpark makes it the perfect place for children to burn off some energy while parents relax with a delicious traybake or ice cream from the Pod in the Park.
Forfar Loch Country Park – 25 minute drive from Greenmyre & Little Kenny Farms
For a relaxed summer day in the Angus countryside, head to Forfar Loch Country Park. The 4km circular route around the loch is perfect for walking, running or cycling, with beautiful waterside views and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way. Families can enjoy the children’s playpark and Wildlife Garden, where little ones can discover a variety of habitants and learn more about the area’s wildlife. With picnic tables, seating areas and plenty of space to relax, it’s the ideal place to slow down and enjoy a summer afternoon outdoors. We’d highly recommend heading over to Peel Farm to pick up some homemade treats and picnic essentials before setting off for the day!
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From sunset fish suppers on the coast and strawberry tarts beside the beach to paddleboarding adventures and peaceful lochside picnics, some of Scotland’s best summer experiences are waiting just beyond your lodge doorstep.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic escape or a last minute summer break, our collection of lodges and cottage provides the perfect base for exploring everything Scotland has to offer.
Summer availability is filling quickly, so now is the perfect time to start planning your next adventure.
We look forward to welcoming you soon.
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