East Sands Beach, St Andrews
A sheltered sandy beach in St Andrews with watersports, family-friendly facilities, and stunning views of the historic harbour and town.
East Sands is a charming sandy beach located on the south side of St Andrews' old harbour. Stretching about half a mile, it offers gentle waves, rock pools, and a range of watersports including surfing and sailing. Adjacent to the East Sands Leisure Centre, it is a family-friendly spot with lifeguard patrols during peak season, a children’s play area, and scenic views of the historic town and sea.
A brief summary to East Sands
- St Andrews, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during summer months to enjoy lifeguard services and seasonal watersports activities.
- Explore the rock pools at the southern end of the beach—great for children and nature lovers.
- Combine your beach visit with a trip to the nearby East Sands Leisure Centre for indoor swimming and gym facilities.
- Use the Fife Coastal Path for scenic walks along the coastline with panoramic views of the sea and historic town.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service to St Andrews bus station, then enjoy a 15-minute walk south along the town streets to East Sands beach. Buses run frequently from Dundee and nearby towns, with fares typically between £3 and £6 one-way.
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Car
Drive via the A91 or A915 roads to St Andrews. Parking is available near East Sands in a free car park adjacent to the beach, though spaces can be limited during peak season. Expect a 30-45 minute drive from Dundee.
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Walking
From St Andrews town centre, walk approximately 15 minutes south on mostly flat terrain to reach East Sands. The route is accessible and suitable for families and casual strollers.
East Sands location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about East Sands
A Coastal Gem in Historic St Andrews
East Sands is the smaller of the two main beaches in St Andrews, nestled on the south side of the old harbour. This sandy stretch runs approximately half a mile south from the mouth of the Kinness Burn, providing a sheltered and inviting environment. Its proximity to the harbour and sailing club makes it a hub for watersports such as surfing and sailing, attracting enthusiasts year-round.Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Activities
The beach is ideal for families, with a children’s play park nearby and fascinating rock pools at its southern end that delight young explorers. Lifeguards patrol the beach during the busy summer months, ensuring safety for swimmers and water sports participants. Facilities including toilets, a café, and a spacious free car park enhance convenience for visitors.Connection to the Fife Coastal Path and Surroundings
East Sands forms part of the renowned Fife Coastal Path, offering scenic walking routes along the coastline. The beach’s inland side features a pleasant path with benches, perfect for admiring panoramic views of the sea and the medieval town’s historic architecture. The nearby Kinkell Braes Caravan Site is just a five-minute walk away, making the area a popular spot for both day visitors and longer stays.Environmental Recognition and Dynamic Landscape
This beach has been recognized with the prestigious Keep Scotland Beautiful Beach Award, reflecting its excellent water quality and well-maintained environment. Visitors should note that the beach’s sand and shoreline can shift due to natural coastal dynamics, so the landscape may appear different from visit to visit. This ever-changing character adds to the beach’s natural charm.Leisure Centre and Complementary Amenities
Adjacent to the beach is the East Sands Leisure Centre, a popular facility offering a leisure pool with a sloping beach area, toddler pool, flume, and aqua run inflatable. The centre also includes squash courts, a gym, steam room, and spa bath, catering to a wide range of interests and ages, making it a perfect complement to a day at the beach.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
East Sands is easily accessible from St Andrews town centre, approximately a 15-minute walk from the bus station. The beach’s sheltered location provides calmer waters than the larger West Sands, making it more suitable for families and those seeking a relaxed seaside experience. The combination of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and historic surroundings makes East Sands a unique and memorable destination in Fife.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Martyrs' Monument
1.4 km
A towering tribute to St Andrews’ Protestant martyrs, standing proudly as a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and Scottish Reformation history.
Swilcan Bridge
1.7 km
A centuries-old stone arch bridging golf’s past and present on the legendary Old Course at St Andrews.
Claypotts Castle
16.8 km
Explore the historic charm of Claypotts Castle, a 16th-century treasure in Dundee, Scotland, surrounded by gorgeous gardens and rich history.
Lady’s Tower
17.1 km
An evocative 18th-century folly on Ruby Bay’s headland, Lady’s Tower offers stunning views and a glimpse into Fife’s coastal aristocratic history.
Dundee Maritime Trail
17.5 km
Discover Dundee's illustrious maritime history along the scenic Dundee Maritime Trail, where culture and heritage meet stunning waterfront views.
RRS Discovery
17.6 km
Discover the RRS Discovery, a historic vessel in Dundee embodying maritime exploration and the spirit of adventure.
V&A Dundee
17.6 km
Explore Scotland's design heritage at V&A Dundee, a breathtaking museum showcasing innovation through art, architecture, and interactive experiences.
Discovery Point and RRS Discovery
17.6 km
Explore the rich maritime history of Scotland at Discovery Point and step aboard the RRS Discovery, an iconic ship of exploration.
HMS Unicorn
17.6 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage of the HMS Unicorn, a preserved 19th-century warship and museum in Dundee, offering an engaging glimpse into naval history.
Discovery Walk Historical Walk
17.7 km
A bronze trail through Dundee’s history, celebrating local innovators and reformers whose ideas changed the world.
Slessor Gardens
17.7 km
Explore the tranquility of Slessor Gardens in Dundee, a picturesque park perfect for relaxation, leisure, and cultural events.
Abandon Ship
17.8 km
Experience the unique maritime charm of Abandon Ship, Dundee's vibrant bar known for craft beers, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for all.
Proposed Site of Eden Project Dundee
17.8 km
Explore the upcoming Eden Project Dundee, a unique blend of biodiversity, sustainability, and education nestled in the heart of Scotland's vibrant city.
Dundee Science Centre
17.8 km
Discover the exciting world of science at Dundee Science Centre - an interactive hub of learning and fun for all ages in the heart of Dundee.
Metalurgey
17.8 km
Explore your creativity at Metalurgey, Dundee's top tattoo and piercing shop, where artistry meets personal expression for everyone.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Pends
0.4 km
Step through The Pends, the medieval gateway guarding Scotland’s largest cathedral ruins and a portal to St Andrews’ rich spiritual past.
St Andrews Cathedral
0.5 km
Explore Scotland’s grandest medieval cathedral ruin with panoramic sea views and a rich history at the heart of St Andrews.
St Andrews Castle
0.8 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of St Andrews Castle, a medieval fortress central to Scotland’s religious upheaval and coastal heritage.
The Crystal Shop Scotland
0.8 km
Discover one of the UK’s largest collections of semi-precious crystals in a warm, family-run shop nestled in historic St Andrews.
St Mary's Quad
0.9 km
Historic 16th-century courtyard at St Mary's College, blending academic heritage, iconic architecture, and serene greenery in St Andrews.
St Andrews Town Hall
0.9 km
Historic St Andrews Town Hall: A vibrant, accessible civic venue blending Victorian charm with modern community spirit.
Holy Trinity Church
0.9 km
Historic Holy Trinity Church in St Andrews blends medieval roots with Gothic revival charm and Reformation heritage in the heart of the town.
Market St
1.0 km
Historic Market Street pulses with university energy, unique shops, and Scotland’s oldest street fair in the heart of St Andrews.
St Salvator's Chapel
1.0 km
Historic Late Gothic chapel at the heart of St Andrews University, rich in religious heritage and architectural beauty.
Lower College Hall - University of St Andrews
1.0 km
Historic neo-Jacobean auditorium nestled in St Salvator’s Quadrangle, blending centuries of academic tradition with vibrant university life.
University of St Andrews
1.0 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest university, where medieval heritage meets world-class scholarship in a stunning coastal town.
Statue of Hamish McHamish
1.0 km
A beloved bronze tribute to St Andrews’ iconic wandering cat, capturing community spirit and local charm in the heart of town.
St Andrews
1.0 km
Discover St Andrews: Scotland’s historic town where medieval ruins meet world-famous golf and stunning coastal landscapes.
Blackfriars Chapel
1.1 km
Discover the serene ruins of Blackfriars Chapel, a unique 16th-century Dominican friary remnant blending Scottish and Dutch medieval architecture in St Andrews.
NPH Cinema
1.1 km
Historic 1930s cinema in St Andrews blending vintage charm with modern entertainment at T-Squared Social.
Essential places to dine
The Bothy St Andrews
1.0 km
Cozy Scottish dining in historic Church Square with fresh local flavors, quirky charm, and intimate private spaces.
The Saint Bar & Kitchen
1.2 km
Cozy Scottish gastropub in St Andrews serving fresh local dishes, craft cocktails, and an award-winning sticky toffee pudding in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Peat Inn Restaurant with Rooms
9.2 km
Michelin-starred dining and elegant rooms in a historic Fife coaching inn surrounded by tranquil gardens and countryside charm.
The Rockies Restaurant
14.0 km
Coastal charm and fresh local flavors combine at The Rockies Restaurant, a beloved dining spot in scenic Anstruther.
The Dory Bistro & Gallery
14.3 km
Fresh seafood delights meet vibrant local art in a charming harbour-side bistro in Pittenweem’s historic fishing village.
Craig Millar @ 16 West End
14.9 km
Award-winning seafood dining with stunning harbour views in the charming fishing village of St Monans, Fife.
Urban Beach - The Glass Pavilion
15.2 km
Seaside dining with stunning River Tay views, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere in charming Broughty Ferry.
Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar
15.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavours in the heart of Broughty Ferry, Dundee’s charming coastal suburb.
The Ship Inn & Waterfront Restaurant
15.3 km
A charming gastropub on Dundee’s waterfront, offering fresh seafood, scenic river views, and a warm, lively atmosphere in Broughty Ferry.
Bruach Bar
15.4 km
Stylish family-owned bar and restaurant in Broughty Ferry serving fresh Scottish cuisine and award-winning cocktails from brunch to late night.
Forgan's Broughty Ferry
15.5 km
A modern Scottish restaurant in Broughty Ferry blending traditional flavors with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy rustic setting.
The Fort
15.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and authentic Italian cuisine at The Fort in Broughty Ferry - your go-to pub for food and fun.
Collinsons Restaurant
15.5 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Broughty Ferry with seasonal local ingredients, refined ambiance, and impeccable service.
Meze Grill
15.6 km
Savor authentic Mediterranean grilled delights and vibrant mezes in the welcoming coastal charm of Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Orchid Restaurant @ Gulistan House
15.6 km
Experience modern Indian cuisine in a historic Gothic Revival setting with vibrant flavors and lively events at Orchid Restaurant @ Gulistan House.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bonkers Gift Shop St Andrews
1.0 km
Discover quirky gifts and charming treasures at Bonkers Gift Shop, a vibrant and unique shopping destination in the heart of historic St Andrews.
Taste of Scotland Gifts and Souvenirs
1.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs with exceptional service in the heart of St Andrews’ historic Market Street.
The Scottish Shop
1.1 km
Discover authentic Highland clothing and Scottish gifts with exceptional service in the heart of historic St Andrews.
Ostara by Pretty Things
1.1 km
Discover sustainable fashion and unique Scottish style at Ostara by Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of St Andrews.
The Gift Gallery
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes at The Gift Gallery, nestled in the heart of historic St Andrews.
Gibbles Gifts Cards & Home
13.8 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts, cards, and stylish home accessories in the heart of Anstruther’s charming East Neuk coast.
Funky Scottish
14.2 km
Discover Scottish art, gifts, and coffee in a vibrant, creative space at Funky Scottish in the heart of Pittenweem.
The Original Factory Shop (Cupar)
14.4 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on clothing, beauty, and home essentials at Cupar’s premier discount store, The Original Factory Shop.
Hidden Gem Gifts
14.5 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a cozy boutique nestled in Cupar’s historic Bonnygate street.
Lulu & M
15.4 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion and accessories in a charming boutique setting at Lulu & M in Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Bella Mella
15.5 km
Discover trendsetting women's fashion and exceptional service at Bella Mella, a stylish boutique in the heart of Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Love Your Sparkle Boutique
16.8 km
Discover unique style and personal sparkle at Dundee’s charming Love Your Sparkle Boutique in Broughty Ferry.
The Cheesery - Dundee Cheese Shop
17.8 km
Discover Dundee’s finest artisan cheeses and expert advice at The Cheesery, your local cheese specialist on Exchange Street.
Assai Records Dundee
17.8 km
Discover rare vinyl treasures and vibrant music culture at Assai Records Dundee, the city’s premier record shop on Union Street.
Quirky Coo
17.9 km
Dundee's independent gift emporium offering curated Scottish treasures and distinctive homeware.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fisherman's Tavern
15.4 km
Historic coastal pub and hotel in Broughty Ferry offering traditional ales, hearty fare, live events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Anchor Bar
15.4 km
A lively pub and restaurant in Broughty Ferry offering great food, drinks, live music, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Royal Arch Bar & Bistro
15.4 km
A cosy and authentic bar & bistro in Broughty Ferry, Dundee, famed for its steak pie, friendly service, and traditional Scottish pub charm.
The Gunners Bar
15.5 km
Experience traditional Scottish hospitality and local charm at The Gunners Bar, a cozy and friendly pub in Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Occidental Bar
15.8 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and vibrant pub culture at Occidental Bar, a cozy local gem in Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
The Ship Inn
16.8 km
Charming seaside pub and hotel with stunning bay views, fresh local seafood, and warm Scottish hospitality in the heart of Elie’s coastal village.
The Bank Bar Dundee
17.9 km
Traditional Dundee pub in a former bank, serving award-winning ales, home-cooked food, and vibrant live music showcasing local talent.
Nether Inn
17.9 km
Lively and welcoming pub in Dundee’s city centre, famed for sports, live music, and great value shared plates in a vibrant student atmosphere.
The Salty Dog
17.9 km
A lively Dundee pub offering local brews, diverse menus, and vibrant entertainment in a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
The Pillars Bar & Lounge
17.9 km
Historic Dundee pub blending traditional charm with friendly locals, quality ales, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Draffens
17.9 km
Discover Dundee’s hidden gem—a cozy cocktail laboratory blending history, creativity, and intimate nightlife in Couttie's Wynd.
Trades House
17.9 km
Historic Dundee pub with carved interiors, lively sports screens, and a welcoming beer garden in the heart of the city.
The Phoenix
17.9 km
One of Dundee’s oldest pubs, The Phoenix offers authentic Scottish ales, hearty food, and a warm, timeless atmosphere in the city centre.
Tickety Boo's
18.0 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Dundee blending historic charm with hearty food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Market Bar
18.0 km
Lively and affordable pub and restaurant in Dundee’s city centre, known for friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Decades Bar & Nightclub
17.8 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Rewind dundee
18.0 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.
Underground
18.0 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
OUT Nightclub
18.0 km
A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
18.1 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
Fat Sams
18.2 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
AURA Nightclub
18.2 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Tropicana & Venga
18.3 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
Private Eyes
18.3 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
Afro Beats
18.4 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
Truth
20.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife with great music, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere at Truth nightclub in Leven, Fife.
De Vitos Nightclub
27.3 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
The Schofies Residence 1
30.1 km
A lively nightclub nestled in Glenrothes, offering a vibrant social scene and memorable nights in Scotland’s welcoming town.
Republic Bar Club
34.6 km
Experience Kirkcaldy’s vibrant nightlife at Republic Bar Club, where great drinks, friendly vibes, and lively weekends come together.
Royal Night Club
34.8 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly