Coast
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Explore our coastline
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire’s coastline stretches for 165 miles along the North Sea, offering a remarkable mix of dramatic cliffs, vast sandy beaches, picturesque fishing villages and wildlife-rich landscapes waiting to be explored.
From the charming harbours of the Banffshire Coast and the maritime heritage of Fraserburgh to the shifting dunes of Newburgh, the dramatic coastline from Peterhead to Cruden Bay and the spectacular scenery of Stonehaven and the Coastal Mearns, every stretch of coast has its own character and story to tell. Aberdeen adds an unexpected city-by-the-sea experience, with its expansive sandy beach and lively promenade lined with coffee vans, food trucks, juice bars, saunas and sports activities just minutes from the city centre.
Whether you’re seeking coastal walks, hidden beaches, fresh seafood, dolphin spotting, vibrant beachfront experiences or centuries of history, the North-east coast rewards those who take time to explore.
Banffshire coast
Stretching along one of Scotland’s most scenic shorelines, the Banffshire Coast is a place of dramatic cliffs, sweeping beaches, picturesque fishing villages and rich maritime heritage. Discover the Georgian elegance of Banff, the historic harbour at Portsoy, Macduff’s seafaring character and the surf-friendly sands of Sandend, with dolphin spotting, castle ruins and unforgettable coastal walks along the way.
Fraserburgh
At the North-eastern tip of Aberdeenshire, Fraserburgh combines rugged coastline, golden beaches and a proud maritime identity. Known locally as “The Broch”, this historic fishing town offers lighthouse heritage, wildlife-rich reserves, expansive sands and dramatic coastal scenery, alongside opportunities to spot seabirds, seals and migrating wildlife.
Newburgh and the Coastal Dunes
Home to one of Scotland’s most spectacular dune systems, this stretch of coast is where rolling sands meet wide beaches and remarkable wildlife. Visit the dramatic Forvie National Nature Reserve, spot seals at Newburgh Beach and explore landscapes shaped by wind, sea and centuries of history.
Peterhead to Cruden Bay
From Scotland’s largest fishing port to one of the country’s most striking castle settings, this stretch of coastline blends maritime heritage with dramatic scenery. Explore Peterhead’s rich seafaring past, discover hidden coves and coastal villages, visit the iconic clifftop ruins of Slains Castle overlooking Cruden Bay, and experience the magnificent Bullers of Buchan, where towering cliffs and sea arches provide a seasonal home for nesting seabirds, including puffins.
Stonehaven & the Coastal Mearns
South of Aberdeen, this scenic coastline is dotted with charming harbours, dramatic cliffs and picturesque seaside towns. Discover the iconic clifftop setting of Dunnottar Castle, stroll Stonehaven’s beachfront promenade and explore fishing villages, coastal walks and hidden coves stretching through the Mearns.
From harbour festivals and seaside events to places to stay, eat and explore, discover what’s happening across the coast below.
Itineraries In The Coast
Duration: 96 hours
- City
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- Arts & Culture
Four days across the city, coast and countryside
Duration: 48 hours
- City
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- Arts & Culture
A flavour-led escape
Duration: 48 hours
- Coast
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- History & Heritage
48 Hours of Culture, Charm and Castle Tales in Northern Aberdeenshire
Blogs From The Coast
Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of the city, the beauty of the coastline or the tranquillity of the countryside, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire invite you to explore.
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- Family Friendly
Seven things to do in the North-east this July
Post Date: 27 May 2026
July is peak summer in the North-east, the days are long, the countryside is at its lushest, and the events calendar is stacked with Highland Games, coastal adventures and family days out. Here's your guide to making the most of the month.
Seven things to do in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire in June
June is one of the very best months to explore the north-east. Long evenings, the countryside at its greenest, coastal paths at their most walkable, and a packed events calendar to boot.
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Plan your perfect golf trip to Scotland’s North-east
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have long held a special place in the world of golf. With a coastline that sweeps dramatically, ancient linksland, and rolling inland courses carved through some of Scotland's most striking vistas, this is a region that speaks to golfers at every level.
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Spring dishes in the North-east worth travelling for
Spring in the North-east is a celebration of renewal. As the landscape awakens, our menus transform with vibrant greens, zesty citrus, and the freshest catch from our coastal waters. From sun-drenched city terraces to cosy countryside escapes, here are the seasonal dishes you can’t miss this spring.
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Celebrating Mother’s Day in the North-east
Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to treat the mums and mother figures in your life. If you’re planning a celebration in Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire, we’ve rounded up thoughtful gift ideas, indulgent afternoon teas and special events to help you plan the perfect day while supporting local businesses.
Read MoreEvents In The Coast
Start Date
End Date
- Coast
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- Arts & Culture
Seabound II : Meet by the Shore - Johnshaven Village Hall
Date(s): 22nd May 2027
- Coast
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- Arts & Culture
Stonehaven Fireballs Ceremony - Stonehaven High Street
Date(s): 31st Dec 2026
- Coast
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- Arts & Culture
Focus Craft Fair (Festival of Crafts Unique to Scotland) - Stonehaven Town Hall
Date(s): 5 Sept - 7 Nov 2026
- Coast
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- Arts & Culture
Silver Clay Jewellery Experience - Smiddy Banff
Date(s): 11 Jul - 10 Oct 2026
Businesses In The Coast
- Coast
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- Eat & Drink
Fierce Beer Brewery Visitor Centre
- Coast
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- Nature & Wildlife
Bullers of Buchan
- Coast
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- Family Friendly
The Maggie Law Maritime Museum
- Coast
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- History & Heritage
Mill of Benholm Enterprise
- Coast
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- Nature & Wildlife
Rattray Head Beach
- Countryside
Bothies & Bannocks
- Coast
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- Outdoors & Adventure
Fraserburgh Golf Club
- Coast
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- Eat & Drink
The Dunes Restaurant & Bar
- Coast
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- Outdoors & Adventure