Hackley Bay: Coastal Charm at Collieston, Aberdeenshire
Discover tranquil coastal beauty and historic charm at Hackley Bay, a serene retreat near Collieston in Aberdeenshire.
Hackley Bay, nestled near Whiteness Cottages in the quaint village of Collieston by Ellon, Aberdeenshire, offers a serene beach experience with stunning coastal views. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, this bay is ideal for visitors seeking relaxation and scenic walks along the shore. Its proximity to traditional cottages enhances its charm, making it a hidden gem on Scotland’s northeast coast.
A brief summary to Hackley Bay
- Whiteness Cottages, Ellon, Collieston, AB41 8RS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 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
- Bring sturdy footwear for walking on uneven coastal paths and rocky beach areas.
- Visit during low tide to explore more of the shoreline and discover tidal pools.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the peaceful surroundings, as facilities near the bay are limited.
- Check local weather forecasts before visiting, as coastal conditions can change quickly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Ellon to Collieston, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. From Collieston, Hackley Bay is accessible by a 10-minute walk. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £5 one way. Service frequency may vary on weekends and holidays.
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Car
Driving from Ellon to Hackley Bay takes about 15 minutes via local roads. Parking options are limited near the bay, so arriving early is recommended. Note that some roads near Collieston are narrow and may require cautious driving.
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Walking
For active travelers, a scenic 45-minute walk from Collieston village to Hackley Bay offers coastal views and fresh air. The terrain includes some uneven paths and gentle slopes, suitable for walkers with moderate fitness.
Hackley Bay location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hackley Bay
Coastal Tranquility in Aberdeenshire
Hackley Bay is a serene coastal spot located near the village of Collieston, just outside the town of Ellon in Aberdeenshire. This beach area is characterized by its quiet, natural environment and the traditional Scottish cottages nearby, such as those at Whiteness Cottages. The bay offers visitors a peaceful retreat where the gentle sound of waves and fresh sea air create a calming atmosphere. It is an excellent location for those looking to escape the bustle of city life and enjoy the simplicity of coastal Scotland.Natural Beauty and Scenic Surroundings
The bay is set against a backdrop of rugged coastline and open skies, providing picturesque views that change with the light throughout the day. The shoreline invites leisurely walks, beachcombing, and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The natural landscape around Hackley Bay remains largely unspoiled, contributing to its appeal as a low-impact destination where visitors can connect with nature. Nearby, the village of Collieston adds to the charm with its historic fishing heritage and quaint streets.Local Heritage and Village Atmosphere
Collieston, the nearest village to Hackley Bay, is steeped in maritime history. Once a thriving fishing community, it retains much of its traditional character, with cottages like Whiteness Cottages reflecting the architectural style of the area. The village offers a glimpse into coastal Scottish life, with its small harbor, local eateries, and community spirit. This heritage enriches the visitor experience, blending natural beauty with cultural significance.Visitor Experience and Activities
Visitors to Hackley Bay often enjoy peaceful walks along the beach, photography of the scenic coastline, and birdwatching. The bay’s calm environment makes it suitable for mindful reflection and relaxation. While there are no commercial facilities directly on the beach, the nearby village provides amenities such as cafes and shops. The area is also a favored spot for locals and visitors who appreciate a quiet seaside escape.Seasonal Appeal and Weather Considerations
The bay is accessible year-round, with each season offering a distinct experience. Summers bring mild temperatures and longer daylight, perfect for extended beach visits. Winters can be brisk and windy, adding a dramatic element to the coastal scenery. Visitors should be prepared for typical Scottish coastal weather, which can be changeable, and dress accordingly to enjoy the bay fully.Preservation and Sustainable Enjoyment
Hackley Bay and its surroundings are valued for their natural state, encouraging visitors to respect the environment. The area supports sustainable tourism practices, emphasizing low-impact visitation and the protection of local wildlife habitats. This approach ensures that the bay remains a pristine and welcoming destination for future generations to enjoy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Powis Gates
20.9 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Workers' Memorial
21.1 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
Gallows Hill
21.2 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Dyce Standing Stones
21.7 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
22.1 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
22.2 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Marischal College
22.2 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
22.2 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Greyfriars Church
22.2 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Stone 45
22.2 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Castlegate
22.3 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
22.5 km
Explore an extraordinary collection of art and culture at the Aberdeen Art Gallery, a must-visit for every traveler in Aberdeen.
Cowdray Hall
22.5 km
Discover the cultural heartbeat of Aberdeen at Cowdray Hall, where exceptional acoustics and vibrant performances come together for an unforgettable experience.
St. Nicholas Cemetery
22.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St. Nicholas Cemetery, a hidden gem in the heart of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Aberdeen Ferry Terminal
22.5 km
Experience the adventure of a lifetime at Aberdeen Ferry Terminal, your gateway to Scotland's breathtaking islands and coastal beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Collieston Beach
2.0 km
A sheltered golden sandy beach framed by historic harbour walls and dramatic dunes, offering tranquil coastal charm in Aberdeenshire.
Newburgh Seal Beach
3.5 km
Discover Britain’s largest grey seal colony on the golden sands of Newburgh Seal Beach, a serene wildlife haven in Aberdeenshire.
Old Slains Castle (Not Dracula castle)
3.9 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Old Slains Castle, a 13th-century fortress steeped in history and the Gothic inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Slains Castle
11.7 km
Perched on windswept cliffs, Slains Castle’s haunting ruins inspired Dracula and echo centuries of Scottish history and legend.
Bullers of Buchan
13.8 km
Explore a breathtaking 30-meter deep collapsed sea cave and vibrant seabird sanctuary along Aberdeenshire’s rugged northeast coast.
Pitmedden Garden & Museum of Farming Life
14.3 km
Discover a vibrant 17th-century Scottish Renaissance walled garden with colorful parterres, historic orchard, and a captivating Museum of Farming Life.
Haddo House
17.6 km
Explore Haddo House, a stunning Georgian Palladian mansion with Victorian interiors, historic gardens, and rich Scottish heritage near Ellon.
Scotstown Moor
17.8 km
A tranquil heathland and bog reserve near Aberdeen offering rich natural habitats, historic roots, and scenic coastal views.
Dyce Symbol Stones
19.1 km
Explore the enigmatic Dyce Symbol Stones—ancient Pictish carvings nestled in the ruins of St Fergus's Chapel, revealing Scotland’s early medieval mysteries.
South Donmouth Beach
19.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s peaceful South Donmouth Beach, where river, sea, and wildlife create a serene coastal haven.
Donmouth Sands
19.1 km
A tranquil beach and nature reserve where Aberdeen’s River Don meets the sea, offering golden sands, scenic dunes, and rich wildlife in a peaceful coastal setting.
Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
19.2 km
A peaceful estuarine retreat in Aberdeen where river meets sea, rich in wildlife and scenic coastal views.
Windows to the Sea
19.4 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic granite frames framing stunning North Sea views on the vibrant Beach Esplanade.
The Walled Garden
19.7 km
A tranquil, historic garden sanctuary in Aberdeen offering vibrant seasonal blooms and peaceful shelter within Seaton Park’s embrace.
Archimedes Screw
19.9 km
Discover Aberdeen’s pioneering Archimedes Screw turbine, where ancient engineering powers modern sustainable energy in a vibrant riverside setting.
Essential places to dine
The Cock & Bull
9.8 km
A beloved Scottish gastropub in Balmedie offering award-winning food, cozy accommodation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Eat On The Green
14.7 km
Experience refined Scottish dining with fresh local ingredients and impeccable service in the heart of Udny Green.
Beekie's Neuk
16.0 km
A beloved Newmachar pub serving hearty homemade Scottish classics in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with generous portions and good value.
Mill Of Mundurno Table Table
16.6 km
Family-friendly pub dining in scenic Aberdeen farmland with hearty British classics and warm hospitality.
Brig O'Don Pub & Grill
19.6 km
A modern Aberdeen pub serving expertly flame-grilled dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting with welcoming service and family-friendly vibes.
Chicago Town
20.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Chicago Town in Old Aberdeen – where every pizza tells a story.
Old El Paso
20.6 km
Authentic Mexican flavors served fresh in the vibrant heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
Traditional Grub
20.6 km
Traditional Scottish dining in the heart of Old Aberdeen’s university campus, blending heritage flavors with a vibrant community atmosphere.
1236 Cave Bar at Meldrum House
21.5 km
Historic 800-year-old stone bar with award-winning whisky and casual Scottish dining at Meldrum House Country Hotel.
Cartoos Grill House & Desserts
21.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish grills and delightful desserts in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Aberdeen’s scenic Esplanade.
Burning Hands and Plates
22.0 km
A vibrant fusion restaurant on Aberdeen’s Esplanade offering bold American-inspired flavors in a casual beachside setting.
Croque Toasties
22.1 km
Cozy beachfront spot in Aberdeen serving specialty toasted sandwiches with a French twist, perfect for a relaxed seaside meal.
The Hungry Beast
22.1 km
Savor delicious fast food delights at The Hungry Beast in Aberdeen's Esplanade - perfect for tourists seeking quick and tasty meals.
Six°North / Smoke & Soul
22.1 km
Slow-smoked BBQ soul food ignites Aberdeen's craft beer scene at Six°North, blending hearty meats, loaded comforts, and artisanal brews in a minimalist city hideaway.
Siam Cottage
22.2 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quirky Gifts Emporium
8.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and unique gifts in this independent Ellon shop.
EARTHSTORE.CO.UK
19.8 km
A small, curated gem and wellness emporium within Aberdeen’s Urban Wellness Hub, where crystals, lapidary work and calming gifts meet holistic therapies.
Malthurst Retail Ltd
20.1 km
A compact King Street convenience outlet serving Old Aberdeen’s students and residents with practical everyday essentials.
The Gift Co
20.4 km
Discover unique treasures and heartfelt gifts at The Gift Co, Peterhead’s charming boutique on Berryden Road.
Blackwell's Bookshop
20.6 km
Discover timeless tales and local lore amid the ancient stones of Old Aberdeen at this beloved independent bookshop haven.
The Bear Essentials
20.6 km
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
ShopHub
20.6 km
Everyday essentials at the pulse of Aberdeen Uni campus – ShopHub fuels student life with groceries, snacks, and supplies in Old Aberdeen's historic heart.
Country Images
21.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and souvenirs at Country Images, a charming shop in the heart of Aberdeen offering local artisan treasures.
The Friends Gift Shop
21.4 km
Handcrafted local treasures in a scenic country park courtyard.
Àdùké Fashion House
21.7 km
Discover African vibrancy on Aberdeen's George Street: native wears, handmade bags, and cultural fusion fashion for all ages at affordable prices.
The Range, Aberdeen
21.8 km
A vast homewares and lifestyle emporium nestled in Aberdeen’s vibrant beachfront leisure park, offering everything for your home and garden.
House of Gifts
21.8 km
Discover the charm of Aberdeen at the House of Gifts, where unique treasures and local artistry come together for unforgettable shopping.
Brunswick Stores
21.9 km
Discover convenience and local flavors at Brunswick Stores, your essential stop in Aberdeen for snacks, drinks, and delightful Scottish treats.
The Closet
22.1 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
22.1 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Aberdeen’s Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop, a haven for antique jewellery lovers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Craft - off-licence and Bar
13.5 km
A cozy village wine bar and off-licence in Pitmedden offering craft drinks, community spirit, and award-winning hospitality.
Black Dog
19.0 km
A friendly, lively pub in Aberdeen’s Bridge of Don serving hearty British classics with great entertainment and welcoming vibes.
Mains of Scotstown
19.0 km
A welcoming British pub in Aberdeen offering classic dishes, craft drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
Spider's Web
20.1 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dyce offering hearty meals, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near Dyce railway station.
Rowan Tree Bar
20.2 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
St. Machar Bar
20.6 km
Authentic Old Aberdeen pub with award-winning whiskies, local cask ales, historic brewery mirrors, and hearty pub grub in a student-favored historic spot.
The Bobbin
20.8 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
The Distilling House
21.0 km
A welcoming airport pub celebrating Scottish whisky heritage with classic food, craft beers, and expert spirit knowledge.
The Staging Post
21.6 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
The Kings Bar
22.0 km
A warm, traditional pub on Aberdeen’s King Street, offering friendly service, lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks in the city center.
Northern Bar
22.1 km
A vibrant Aberdeen pub blending heritage, live sports, hearty food, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Castle Bar
22.2 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
22.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
Fittie Bar
22.2 km
Historic 1821 pub in Aberdeen's Footdee fishing village, famed for giant fish suppers, rugby walls, and authentic Scottish pub soul amid harbor scents.
All Bar One Aberdeen
22.3 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Exodus
22.5 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
22.5 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
The Underground Klub
22.7 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Private Eyes
22.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Mask Club
22.8 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Number 7 Club
22.8 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
22.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
Venga
22.9 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
22.9 km
Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.
491 Union Street
23.2 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.
Babylon
23.2 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
Deejays Nightclub
40.3 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
50.0 km
Experience the warmth and vibrancy of Market Arms in Banff, offering local brews, hearty meals, and a friendly atmosphere for every traveler.
Banff Town & County Club
50.1 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
Castle Bar
50.3 km
Experience the warmth and hospitality of Castle Bar, a charming pub in Banff, where locals and tourists come together over great food and drinks.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly