Categories > Guides and Tips
The 13 Best Beaches Near Glasgow
Aside from its thriving arts scene and historical landmarks, our beloved Glasgow offers some awesome beaches worth checking out.
So grab your favourite pair of sunnies, slather on sunscreen, and let’s embark on a journey together as we explore some of the best beaches near Glasgow. Read on!
Irvine Beach
Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/irvine-beach-p2569381
With Irvine Beach’s golden sands and an impressive view of the island of Arran, it’s like having your secret bit of seaside in the middle of town. This place is a hit mainly because of those long, leisurely walks along the promenade.
Plus, it’s one of the rare beaches that’s as much fun on a breezy day (a frequent occurrence in Scotland!) as it’s under the sun. When you get tired of all the fun in the sand or simply fancy a change of scenery, there are plenty of spots in town to explore.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to pack your kite; windy days at Irvine Beach are perfect for high-octane kite action! And remember to visit the impressive Scottish Maritime Museum while you’re in town. |
Helensburgh Beach
Website: https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/south-scotland/strathclyde/helensburgh.htm
Flanked by grassy hills and dotted with benches, Helensburgh Beach is the perfect spot to unwind and do a whole load of absolutely nothing. The charm of Helensburgh is that it always retains its ‘old seaside town’ vibes.
You’re likelier to see a nostalgic toy sandcastle bucket than an oversized beach ball. And sure, the water might be a tad chilly, but who cares when you’ve got such an awesome view?
| Pro tip: The toilets by the swimming pool are open to the public and are usually less crowded, so take note when nature calls! |
Newton Beach
Just an hour’s drive from Glasgow, Newton Beach feels less like a day trip and more like a brief pop-over to a friend’s place. This beach is a hidden gem, and it’s an absolute paradise for all my bird-watching pals.
The spot boasts a wealth of fascinating avian life, making it a must-visit for any budding Attenborough. And speaking of animals, it’s dog-friendly, too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
| Pro tip: The beach can get a bit pebbly, so make sure you’ve got good footwear to avoid any surprise stubbed toes! If you crave something, you can check out The Saltwater Inn or Cosy Corner Lounge. |
Ayr Beach
Website: http://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/ayr-beach-p727241
With its wide, open sands and views out to the Isle of Arran, Ayr Beach must be on your bucket list. You’re not going to get bored here because you’ve got options galore—stroll along the elegant esplanade, build a sandcastle, or jump in waves.
And with plenty of free parking and surprisingly swimmable water (subject to your cold thresholds, of course), it’s a pretty sweet deal. While Ayr Beach may steal your attention during the daytime, the town of Ayr is worthy of exploration, too.
| Pro tip: Strong winds can pick up without much warning. So, always pack a lightweight windbreaker and keep your picnic well-anchored! |
Seamill Beach
Moving on, we’ve got Seamill Beach – and if you’re all about that island view, you’re in for a treat here. It’s got postcard-perfect vistas of the Isles of Arran and Wee Cumbrae, and on clear days, you can even spot Ailsa Craig.
Seamill isn’t your classic sandy beach; it’s more of the rocky pebble type. After the beach time, you can even ride to the Isle of Great Cumbrae; it’s just a short ferry ride away from Largs and fantastic for kids (and big kids, too!).
| Pro tip: You won’t find many facilities on the beach, so bring plenty of snacks, water, and a blanket to sit on. |
Boden Boo Beach
Boden Boo is a little oasis that comes complete with woodland trails, picnic spots, and sandy shores. It’s the smallest beach on our list, but if you ask me, that adds to its charm.
It is a top spot for a cosy picnic, a long stroll, or some good old-fashioned unplugged relaxation. There might not be a town right next to it, but The Chartroom II restaurant is only a short drive away, and it even offers beautiful views of the marina.
| Pro tip: Pack your insect repellent because even though the woodland surrounding the beach is beautiful, the midges can be pesky little buggers, especially during the warmer months! |
Pencil Beach
Website: https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/south-scotland/strathclyde/pencil-largs.htm
Pencil Beach is not only a great place to chill, but it also boasts a rich history connecting it to the Vikings and a certain Battle of Largs. Yep, it’s not just a clever name—there’s an actual pencil monument on the shore!
The water’s usually calm, perfect for paddling, and the grassy picnic area is just begging to be camped out all day. Plus, you’ve got that fab nearby Viking-themed play park for the kiddos (but who are we kidding? We all secretly want a go as well).
| Pro tip: The beach is popular with locals, so get there early to find a great spot to set up your picnic blanket! |
Wemyss Bay Beach
Website: https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/south-scotland/strathclyde/wemyss-bay.htm
Tucked between Inverkip and Skelmorlie on the Firth of Clyde, Wemyss Bay Beach is another great spot to spend a day by the water. And with its peaceful, secluded feel, it’s just the ticket for anyone looking to dodge the typical tourist buzz.
You’ll find here driftwood-laden shores, fascinating rock pools, and perfectly smooth pebbles that just beg to be skimmed. You’ll also love the coffee and cake selection at the View Cafe, just a stone’s throw from the beach.
| Pro tip: There’s a handy car park a few minutes walk from the beach, but remember to bring some change for the parking fee; it’s a small price to pay for a grand day out! |
Luss Beach
Sitting pretty on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, Luss Beach is less sand-in-your-toes and more—dare I say it—pebbles in your flip-flops. But don’t be fooled; this fantastic stretch of beach is soaked in Scottish charm and lochside views.
And hey, if you’re up for some adventure, you can hire a kayak and explore the Loch’s islands, too. Aside from this, Luss is a charming little village with a few good spots to grab a bite or a brew.
| Pro tip: Pay-and-display car parks fill up quickly during the summer months, so plan to arrive early to secure your spot. Moreover, if you crave a drink, Colquhoun’s Restaurant & Bar is just up the road and the go-to spot for a well-earned drink. |
Stevenston Beach
Located just down the road from Saltcoats and Ardrossan, Stevenston Beach is a fab spot for sun-seekers who prefer their beaches a little quieter and off the beaten track. The soft, powdery sand here is just begging to be sunk into.
There’s even a designated local nature reserve nearby, so if you’re a wildlife fan, get ready for some top-notch birding opportunities. Not too far from the beach, you’ll find the local favourite, Copacabana Fish Bar and The Red Squirrel.
| Pro tip: The coastal walk that links Stevenston Beach to Irvine and Ardrossan offers stunning views and a terrific way to explore the coastline! |
Troon Beach
Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/troon-beach-p2571601
Troon Beach is a coastal blanket of sandy loveliness stretching for miles. On a chilled-out day, the Firth of Clyde provides a picturesque backdrop, and there’s always the chance of catching the sunset, painting the sky in hues of warm orange and pink.
What’s not to love? From families building sandcastles to dog walkers enjoying the expanse, it’s a crowd-pleaser, fun for all ages and types, and relatively quiet if you’re after some much-needed peace. It’s not overhyped; it’s just right.
| Pro tip: Grab a bite from the local eateries nearby for a picnic. And remember, the beach faces west, so those sunset views are particularly dreamy. |
Milarrochy Bay
One of the beaches that is often missed is Milarrochy Bay, and honestly, it baffles me! This pebbled beauty on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond offers stunning views, with the serene Loch and tree-lined banks offering a different kind of seaside experience.
Now, to those who might say, “A pebble beach—what’s the fuss?” Let me tell you, it’s a place that makes you appreciate the quiet moments where nature does the talking.
| Pro tip: Try hitting the beach at dusk for some of the most tranquil and mesmerising views. And keep your eyes peeled for local avian visitors; this place can be a birdwatcher’s paradise. |
Turnberry Bay Beach
Turnberry Bay is a classical seaside vacation with a dash of the dramatic. Overshadowed by the towering Turnberry lighthouse and surrounded by rugged cliffs, this beach gives you plenty of Instagram fodder.
It’s equally thrilling for those who love a long walk along the beach, golf enthusiasts who fancy a view while they tee off, and even history buffs keen on exploring the WWII remnants and ruins nearby. So, who wouldn’t be tempted?
| Pro tip: The southern part of the beach tends to be less crowded. Also, check the tides before you head out to ensure you have plenty of beaches to explore. |
