East Sands Beach and Leisure Centre, St Andrews
A sheltered sandy beach with vibrant watersports, family leisure facilities, and stunning coastal views in historic St Andrews.
East Sands is a charming, smaller sandy beach in St Andrews, stretching about half a mile south from the Kinness Burn mouth. Adjacent to the beach is the East Sands Leisure Centre, offering family-friendly pools, gym facilities, and wellness amenities. The beach is popular for gentle watersports, rock pools, and scenic coastal walks, with lifeguards in peak season and easy access from the town centre.
A brief summary to East Sands
- St Andrews, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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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 peak season for lifeguard patrols and optimal watersports conditions.
- Combine a beach day with a visit to the East Sands Leisure Centre for swimming and fitness activities.
- Explore the rock pools at the southern end of the beach, especially enjoyable for children.
- Use the nearby car park or walk 15 minutes from St Andrews town centre for easy access.
- Enjoy scenic coastal walks along the Fife Coastal Path with views of St Andrews’ historic skyline.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus to St Andrews town centre; from the bus station, it is a 15-minute walk south along well-marked paths to East Sands Beach. Bus services run frequently throughout the day with fares typically around £2-£4.
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Car
Drive to East Sands using the A91 or A915 roads; free parking is available near the beach and leisure centre. Note that parking can fill up during peak summer weekends, so early arrival is recommended.
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Walking
From central St Andrews, a pleasant 15 to 20-minute walk south along pedestrian-friendly streets and coastal paths leads directly to East Sands. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most fitness levels.
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
Discover more about East Sands
A Coastal Gem in St Andrews
East Sands is the more intimate of St Andrews’ two main beaches, extending roughly half a mile along the coast from the mouth of the Kinness Burn. This sandy beach offers a sheltered and family-friendly environment, contrasting with the more expansive and windier West Sands nearby. Its proximity to the old harbour and the sailing club makes it a hub for watersports such as surfing and sailing, while the gentle waves and rock pools at the southern end invite exploration and play.Leisure and Wellness Facilities
Nestled beside the beach on St Mary Street, the East Sands Leisure Centre complements the natural appeal of the beach with a wide range of amenities. The centre features a freeform leisure pool with a sloping beach area, toddler pool, flume, and aqua run inflatable, making it ideal for families. Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy a modern gym spread across two floors, squash courts, a steam room, and a spa bath. The gym is well-equipped with cardio machines, fixed resistance equipment, and free weights, catering to all fitness levels.Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
East Sands is part of the scenic Fife Coastal Path, offering walkers stunning views of the historic town and the North Sea. The beach’s dynamic sandy environment is ever-changing, with shifting sandbanks that add to its natural charm. Lifeguards patrol during peak season, ensuring safety for swimmers. Nearby, a children’s play area and café provide additional conveniences, while the beach’s award-winning cleanliness enhances its appeal.Community and Accessibility
The beach and leisure centre serve as important recreational hubs for both locals and visitors. The leisure centre operates extensive opening hours throughout the week, providing accessible facilities including level access, accessible toilets, and parking. The beach is dog-friendly and family-oriented, with free swimming for under 5s at the leisure centre and junior racquet sports programmes. The adjacent car park and proximity to the town centre make East Sands easily reachable.Historical and Cultural Context
St Andrews itself is a historic town known for its medieval buildings, university, and world-famous golf courses. East Sands offers a tranquil coastal experience within this rich cultural setting, with views that frame the town’s iconic architecture. The beach’s location near the harbour recalls St Andrews’ maritime heritage, while its natural environment continues to inspire visitors and residents alike.Seasonal Highlights and Visitor Experience
East Sands is vibrant in warmer months when watersports enthusiasts and families flock to its shores. The leisure centre’s varied classes and facilities support year-round activity, including swimming, fitness, and wellness. The beach’s sheltered nature makes it suitable for a range of weather conditions, offering a relaxing seaside escape with opportunities for adventure and play.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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly