We always rave about the beaches in Scotland, and it isn't easy to choose between them, but it's definitely true that you can find some of the best in Aberdeenshire!
Long stretches of golden sand are punctuated with dramatic cliffs and rock formations, making for wonderful coastal walks. The beaches are so numerous and lovely that you'll be able to find your own haven easily and escape the crowds.
Some of our favourite Aberdeenshire beaches include those on the east coast, such as Balmedie beach and dunes just outside the city of Aberdeen. Just south of Slains Castle, the pretty bay and rocky outcrops of Collieston and the beach at Newburgh - both backed by Forvie Nature Reserve - are also beautiful places to spend time. Newburgh is great for spotting both common and grey seals and seabirds in abundance. North of here, you'll find the stunning sandy crescent of Cruden Bay and the dramatic rocky fingers of the Bullers of Buchan.
On the north coast, the long stretch of sand next to the fishing village of Sandend, and the bays at Portsoy and Cullen on the northern coast of Aberdeenshire. Boyndie Bay is another lovely sandy stretch between the villages of Whitehills and Banff. Also worth a visit are the bays around Gardenstown and Crovie, as well as the stunning clifftop walks at RSPB Troup Head (look out for gannets here, too!).
Near the fishing port of Fraserburgh, New Aberdour beach is a lovely sheltered cove with limestone caves to explore, whilst the long stretches of sand either side of Rattray Head - between St Combs to the north and Peterhead to the south - are so colourful that they have to be seen to be believed. Loch of Strathbeg is a haven for seabirds - the largest dune loch in the UK; it's located between Rattray Head and Fraserburgh.
The tiny village of Pennan nestles in a narrow gap between the sea and the steep cliffs. The drive down to the village is steep and narrow with sharp turns and will certainly put any driver through their paces, but passengers will be rewarded with dramatic views of the sea and rocky coastline below. Fun fact: This is the filming location of the popular 1983 film Local Hero - fans will recognise it as the village of Ferness, although the beach scenes were filmed over in Arisaig on the west coast.
Aberdeen beach and the surrounding coastal areas are some of the best places to see bottlenose dolphins in the whole of Europe. You can spot them from the shore - in Aberdeen itself; you can even see them from the harbour - or head out on a boat tour. We recommend Aberdeen harbour tours by Greenhowe Marine Services or the Sea Safari trips from Stonehaven.
Finally, for wildlife lovers, hikers and seaside enthusiasts alike, the route around St Cyrus National Nature Reserve is one of the best coastal walks in the whole of Scotland.
From Aberdeen, the Angus Coastal Route south to Dundee via Montrose & Arbroath is a great way to continue your enjoyment of this beautiful stretch of coast.