Your ultimate summer coastal guide
15 July 2025
Summer is the perfect time to explore the breathtaking coastline of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, where rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and sparkling seas come together to create an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Whether you’re craving peaceful coastal walks, wild swimming or enchanting wildlife spotting, the region offers something for every adventurer.
Here’s your ultimate guide to having a memorable coastal summer adventure in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire:
Unmissable coastal walks
Aberdeen to Cove Bay
An accessible urban-to-wild route, this walk takes you past Footdee’s colourful cottages, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs to the fishing village of Cove. Enjoy the sea breeze and spot dolphins from the shore if you’re lucky. The path is relatively easy, making it great for families or casual walkers and offers plenty of spots to pause and enjoy panoramic views of the North Sea
Forvie National Nature Reserve
For a more rugged experience, try the Forvie National Nature Reserve near Newburgh. Explore shifting dunes, grasslands, and tidal lagoons while looking out for seals and a wealth of seabirds. For a longer walk, connect to the coastal route towards Collieston for cliff views and hidden coves.
Cruden Bay to Slains Castle
This moderate walk rewards you with dramatic cliff-top views and the ruins of Slains Castle, said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Cruden Bay is known for its sweeping, two-mile stretch of pink sand, which forms the Bay of Cruden. The beach is popular with day-trippers, watersports enthusiasts, and sea fishers.
Fraserburgh to Rosehearty
This 9.5km coastal walk is a brilliant half-day adventure along the North-east coastline. The route follows a seaside path past the historic fishing villages of Broadsea, Sandhaven and Pittulie, with harbour views and wildlife spotting along the way. Expect seabirds, occasional seals, and even herons fishing in the shallows.
Balmedie beach and dunes
Balmedie Beach and Country Park is a perfect spot for a coastal walk, family adventure, or a moment of quiet by the sea. The beach is part of a 15-mile dune system stretching from Aberdeen to Newburgh, with towering sand dunes, wide open sands, and sea views that shift beautifully with the light.
Watersports adventures along the coast
Right in the heart of the city, Aberdeen Beach offers easy access to a range of watersports. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to improve your skills, the Scot Surf School runs regular lessons in surfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The beach's long, sweeping sands and reliable waves make it a great introduction to sea-based adventure.
Paddleboarding spots
Paddleboarding is a great way to take in the scenery at a slower pace. Some of the best spots include:
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Balmedie beach – Calm waters and big skies make this a popular SUP location with lots of space to roam.
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Stonehaven harbour – A more sheltered spot with stunning cliffside views.
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Fittie (Footdee) – Launch from the south end of Aberdeen Beach for a quiet paddle with city views.
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Collieston & Peterhead Lido Bay – Both offer sheltered conditions, ideal for beginners.
Take a dip
If you're brave enough for a North Sea dip, wild swimming along the coast can be both refreshing and unforgettable:
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Newburgh beach – Calm, peaceful, and often shared with seals.
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Collieston harbour – A safe, enclosed spot with village charm.
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Sandend Bay – A scenic cove, great for a summer swim at high tide.
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Balmedie beach – With easy access, excellent facilities, and beautiful views, it's a solid favourite.
Tip: Always check the tides, swim safely, and bring something warm for after your dip, even in summer, the North Sea is brisk!
Spot Wildlife from the shore or sea
Keep your camera at the ready – there’s no shortage of wildlife along the coast. Look out for:
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Dolphins at Torry Battery or during an Aberdeen Harbour boat tour.
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Seals basking near Newburgh or along the Ythan Estuary.
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Puffins and seabirds at Bullers of Buchan or Troup Head.
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Herons and coastal birds along the quieter walks near Fraserburgh or Forvie
Quirky coastal towns
Crovie
Tucked against steep cliffs, Crovie is a truly unique and peaceful village where time seems to stand still. With no road running through it, visitors leave their cars at the top of the hill and walk down to explore the single row of traditional cottages lining the shore. The sound of the waves and the sight of seabirds wheeling overhead offer a tranquil escape. It's perfect for a quiet morning stroll and soaking in the raw beauty of the sea.
Pennan
Just a short drive away, Pennan is famous for its role in the film Local Hero. Its iconic red phone box and whitewashed cottages face the sea, creating a postcard-perfect scene. Lunch here could mean fresh seafood while watching the tide roll in. Pennan’s quiet charm and cinematic history make it a delightful stop, with a sense of nostalgia and community that’s hard to match.
Gardenstown
Ending the day in Gardenstown offers a livelier yet still quaint atmosphere. The village curves around a small harbour, with fishermen's cottages stacked along the hillside. There are art studios, a café or two, and even the chance to spot dolphins from the shore. As the sun sets, Gardenstown's golden light on the stone houses and sea creates the perfect end to a coastal adventure in Aberdeenshire.
Enjoy the summer coastline
From serene walks and exhilarating water sports to magical wildlife encounters, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire’s coastline is calling. Pack your sunglasses, walking shoes and swimsuit, and discover why the North-east is one of Scotland’s best summer destinations.
We’d love to be part of your coastal adventures this summer! Don’t forget to tag us @VisitABDN or use our hashtags #VisitABDN or #BeautifulABDN for your chance to feature across our social channels!