Portobello Beach
Two miles of sand and a Victorian promenade, twenty minutes from the centre by bus.
Edinburgh's seaside has a proper beach, a promenade of cafés and ice-cream shops, and a Turkish baths that is still open. On a warm day it fills up; on a cold bright one it is a fine walk with a hot drink. Swimming groups go in year round, which tells you something about the locals.
When it works
Outdoors: pick a dry day. Best morning, afternoon, evening.
Good for kids, dogs, a date and locals' favourite.
On these lists
- Things to do in Edinburgh when the sun is out
- Free things to do in Edinburgh
- Things to do in Edinburgh with kids
- Things to do in Edinburgh tonight
- Date ideas in Edinburgh
- Things to do in Edinburgh this weekend
- Plan an afternoon in Edinburgh around it
Opening hours and prices change; the official site has the current ones. See everything in Edinburgh ranked for right now.