Muchalls Sea Caves and Red Rocks
Explore dramatic red rocks and sea caves carved by the ocean, a ruggedly beautiful coastal gem perfect for low-tide adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Access caves & explore
Muchalls Sea Caves and Red Rocks
Best Time
Access caves & explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore dramatic red rocks and sea caves carved by the ocean, a ruggedly beautiful coastal gem perfect for low-tide adventures.
"Gorgeous wee place with stunning red rocks and accessible sea caves at low tide."
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Crucial for cave access. Low tide is your window to explore these natural wonders safely. Don't get caught out!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Pebbles, rocks, and potential slippery surfaces. Good grip is a must for exploring the coastline and caves.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sea Caves
Along the coastline
Explore fascinating sea caves carved by the ocean, revealing hidden nooks and crannies. Best seen at low tide!
Vibrant Red Rocks
Shoreline
Admire the striking red rock formations that give this coastline its unique character and photographic appeal.
May Craig Views
Overlooking the coast
Enjoy panoramic views from May Craig, a prominent spot dotted with gulls, offering a great vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tide Times are Crucial
Footwear for Rocky Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Crucial for cave access. Low tide is your window to explore these natural wonders safely. Don't get caught out!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Pebbles, rocks, and potential slippery surfaces. Good grip is a must for exploring the coastline and caves.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
Enjoy a meal on the grassy areas or rocks. Great for a relaxed day out exploring this beautiful spot.
Respect Private Property
While the beach is accessible, be mindful of surrounding private land. Stick to designated paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Crucial for cave access. Low tide is your window to explore these natural wonders safely. Don't get caught out!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Pebbles, rocks, and potential slippery surfaces. Good grip is a must for exploring the coastline and caves.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
Enjoy a meal on the grassy areas or rocks. Great for a relaxed day out exploring this beautiful spot.
Respect Private Property
While the beach is accessible, be mindful of surrounding private land. Stick to designated paths.
Leave No Trace :sparkles:
Pack out everything you pack in. Help keep this gorgeous spot clean for everyone to enjoy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Muchalls Sea Caves and Red Rocks for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the unique red rock formations and accessible sea caves at low tide. It's a great spot for local walks and rock pooling. Some find it can be a bit steep and rocky, and occasionally experiences debris from parties, making it less of a destination for those visiting from afar.
"Absolutely stunning place, wild camped there and it was amazing"
James Thomas
"Privately owned pebble beach in Portlethen accessible to public, field path off the Craigmarn Road. #portlethen, #beach,"
Oliwia Biros
"Gorgeous wee place"
Rylee Bug
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is typically via a field path off Craigmarn Road in Portlethen. Some parts of the walk can be steep, so be prepared for a bit of an incline. :walking: It's a relatively short walk from Portlethen or Findon.
Parking can be limited. It's best to check local parking availability or consider walking from nearby residential areas in Portlethen. :car:
Yes, an interesting walk is possible from the Findon side. It's not far, but be aware that some sections are steep and may lack handrails.
While not directly served by public transport right at the entrance, you can likely get a bus to Portlethen and then walk to the access point. Check local bus routes for details.
The most common approach is via the path from Craigmarn Road. Ensure you check tide times before heading out to make the most of your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Muchalls Sea Caves and Red Rocks are a natural attraction and do not require tickets for entry. Access is free for the public. :free:
As a natural coastal area, there are no set opening hours. However, access to the caves is strictly dependent on low tide. :clock1:
There is no admission fee to visit Muchalls Sea Caves and Red Rocks. It's a public access area for everyone to enjoy. :moneywithwings:
The best time to visit is during low tide. Always check the local tide times before your visit to ensure you can safely explore the caves and shoreline. :chartwithupwards_trend:
The main restriction is the tide. Be mindful of the weather and sea conditions, and always prioritize safety. Respect any private property signs in the vicinity.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the sea caves, admire the red rocks, go rock pooling, enjoy the coastal views from May Craig, and potentially wild camp if conditions are suitable and respectful. :camerawithflash:
No, it's primarily a pebble beach with many rocks. There are some grassy areas nearby, but the shoreline itself is stony. :rock:
Yes, the rocky shoreline and tidal pools make it a great spot for rock pooling, especially for families. :crab:
There are no public facilities directly at the caves. You'll need to use facilities in nearby Portlethen or Findon before or after your visit. :toilet:
With supervision and appropriate footwear, it can be enjoyable for children, especially for rock pooling. However, some areas are steep and rocky, so caution is advised. :child:
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic red rock formations, the intricate details of the sea caves, and the panoramic coastal views from May Craig are prime spots for photography. :camera:
Early morning or late afternoon light can be stunning, especially during golden hour, to capture the textures of the rocks and the sea. :sunriseovermountains:
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a macro lens can capture the details of rock pools. A polarizing filter can help with reflections on wet rocks. :dslr_camera:
May Craig offers a fantastic elevated viewpoint overlooking the coastline. Exploring the caves themselves also provides unique photographic angles.
Yes, May Craig is known for its gull inhabitants, offering opportunities for bird photography. Keep an eye out for other coastal wildlife too. :bird:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain and Safety
Safety is paramount when visiting coastal areas like Muchalls. The sea caves are only accessible during low tide, and it's crucial to check tide times meticulously before your visit. Attempting to access the caves during high tide can be dangerous and lead to being cut off. The weather can also change rapidly along the coast, so be prepared for wind and potential rain. It's wise to inform someone of your plans if you're venturing out alone. The combination of uneven ground, slippery surfaces, and tidal changes means that careful footing and awareness are key to a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Geological Wonders: Caves and Rocks
Complementing the caves are the striking Red Rocks that characterize the coastline. These vibrant geological features provide a stunning visual contrast against the sea and sky, making the area a popular spot for photographers. The combination of caves and colorful rocks creates a unique and memorable landscape. For those interested in geology or simply appreciating natural beauty, the interplay of rock, water, and light here is captivating. Exploring the rock pools left behind by the receding tide can also reveal a fascinating miniature ecosystem. :shell:
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit