Summer by the sea in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
27 June 2025
If you’re dreaming of a summer escape where sea air refreshes the soul and history lurks round every corner, look no further than Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Nestled in the North-east of Scotland, this affordable location promises an unforgettable blend of maritime charm, natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
Maritime magic
Start your journey in Aberdeen, also known as the Granite City, where the sparkling stone buildings glisten in the summer sun. Wander along Footdee (or known as "Fittie" by the locals), a quirky, historic fishing village tucked beside Aberdeen Harbour. With its tiny cottages bursting with character and decorative sheds each telling a different story, this hidden corner offers a glimpse into the city’s magical seafaring past.
The Aberdeen Maritime Museum is located in the heart of the city and offers a captivating journey through Aberdeen's maritime heritage. Housed in a series of historic buildings, the museum features a wide range of exhibits, bringing to life the stories of shipbuilders, lighthouse keepers and fishing communities who braved our wild waters for centuries.
Recharge by the sea
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are home to some of Scotland’s most stunning and unspoiled beaches, clean, expansive and often wonderfully quiet. They’re perfect for clearing your head with a barefoot stroll, enjoying a family day out, or even spotting bottlenose dolphins from the shore near Torry Battery, a magical and free experience right in the city.
Aberdeen Beach is a long, golden stretch just minutes from the city centre. Build sandcastles, paddle in the shallows, or soak up the fresh sea air. A lively promenade runs alongside it, lined with cafés, food trucks, ice cream parlours and Codona’s amusement park, perfect for families.
Collieston, originally known as Seatown, is a charming former fishing village tucked into the cliffs, recently named one of the UK’s top coastal hidden gems. Its sheltered bay and dramatic surroundings make it a peaceful retreat full of character.
To the south, St Cyrus Beach stretches for miles beneath volcanic cliffs and rolling dunes. With its sweeping sands, nature reserve and rich wildlife, it’s a breathtaking place to reconnect with nature.
From the vast dunes of Balmedie to the seal colonies at Newburgh, the beaches of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are as diverse as they are beautiful, ready to be explored at your own pace.
Quirky escapes
Venture further into Aberdeenshire, and the sense of escape deepens. The coastline stretches for miles, punctuated by dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and picturesque harbours. Gardenstown and Pennan are tiny, postcard-worthy villages which often feel untouched by time. Find a quirky seaside stay here, whether it’s a colourful fisherman’s cottage, a lighthouse keeper’s lodge, or a stylish eco-bothy perched above the waves. Here are just some suggestions:
- Famous for its appearance in the film Local Hero, The Pennan Inn offers sea-view rooms and warm hospitality, giving you an authentic coastal experience just steps from the sea.
- Located just above Gardenstown, Gamrie Lodge offers plenty of space, countryside views and is only a short drive or steep walk down to the beach. This is great for families wanting a quiet base with nature all around.
- Gannet Cottage is a cosy and former fisherman’s cottage, built in the 19th century, and is directly on the Moray Firth seafront, where if you are fortunate, you can see the local school of dolphins. A viewing scope on a tripod within the cottage is provided so you get a closer view of your surroundings.
Historic coastline adventures
In Pennan you can stand by the iconic red phone box from ‘Local Hero’ and imagine life in a once-thriving fishing community, this spot also makes for a great photo! In nearby Crovie, where houses sit in a single row squeezed between cliff and sea, the layout itself tells a tale of resilience showing how locals adapted to life on edge of the coast.
Visit the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses in Fraserburgh, where children can climb an actual lighthouse and explore exhibits about the brave keepers who lit the way through storms. The harbours of Macduff and Gardenstown are steeped in maritime tradition, with working boats still landing their catch and salty tales echoing in the pubs and on the pier. Even a simple stroll along the waterfront reveals centuries-old sea walls, restored cottages and old anchor chains, serving as a quiet but powerful reminder of the generations who built their lives along this wild and beautiful coast.
Festival fun
Summer in this region isn't just about scenery it's a season of celebration. In July, don't miss The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen, Europe's largest free family event, as the harbour is transformed into a spectacular stage of sail, with majestic vessels, crew parades, live music and family-fun activities.
Of course, that's not all! From art trails and live music to sea-inspired food, family fun and cultural exhibitions, The Festival of the Sea 2025 is adding to the maritime celebrations by bringing the Granite City to life with events and experiences running through till August. The Aberdeen Art Gallery is hosting Monsters of the Deep from May 17 to October 26. This exhibition dives deep into oceanic myths and marine science, featuring intriguing artifacts like the skull of a killer whale and the tooth of an extinct megalodon! Meanwhile, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum's Tales of the Tall Ships exhibition, which launched March 22, highlights Aberdeen's historical ties to these majestic vessels through paintings, ship models and photographs. You can also bring the entire family along to the Sea Dragon interactive performances on July 12 and 13 at Cowdray Hall, where children can join Kipper the Sea Dragon on a quest to restore colour to the coral reef. Whether you're a local or visiting, it's the perfect time to explore Aberdeen in a whole new light.
We’d love to be part of your quirky coastal getaway this summer, tag us @VisitABDN or use our hashtags #VisitABDN or #BeautifulABDN for your chance to feature across our social channels.