Stonehaven Beach
A charming Scottish coastal town featuring a picturesque pebble beach, dramatic cliffside castle, and renowned fish and chips.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Stonehaven Beach
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Scottish coastal town featuring a picturesque pebble beach, dramatic cliffside castle, and renowned fish and chips.
"Stonehaven Beach is a beautiful, yet often breezy, coastal spot with quirky sculptures and stunning views."
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Walk
Take a walk along the coastal path for stunning views of Dunnottar Castle. :hiking_boot:
🍟 Famous Fish & Chips
Don't leave without trying the highly-rated fish and chips from The Bay or Aunty Betty's. :fishandchips:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stonehaven Beach
Crescent-shaped bay
A picturesque pebble beach with quirky metal sculptures and stunning North Sea views.
Dunnottar Castle
Cliffside, short walk from town
A dramatic medieval fortress perched on a rocky headland, offering breathtaking coastal vistas.
Stonehaven Harbour
Adjacent to the beach
A charming working harbor with excellent fish and chip shops and a quaint cafe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Beyond the Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Walk
Take a walk along the coastal path for stunning views of Dunnottar Castle. :hiking_boot:
🍟 Famous Fish & Chips
Don't leave without trying the highly-rated fish and chips from The Bay or Aunty Betty's. :fishandchips:
🐚 Shells & Sculptures
Explore the beach for interesting shells and admire the whimsical metal sculptures on the boardwalk. :shell:
🏊♀️ Open Air Pool
Visit the open-air swimming pool during summer months for a unique seaside dip. :swimming_pool:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Walk
Take a walk along the coastal path for stunning views of Dunnottar Castle. :hiking_boot:
🍟 Famous Fish & Chips
Don't leave without trying the highly-rated fish and chips from The Bay or Aunty Betty's. :fishandchips:
🐚 Shells & Sculptures
Explore the beach for interesting shells and admire the whimsical metal sculptures on the boardwalk. :shell:
🏊♀️ Open Air Pool
Visit the open-air swimming pool during summer months for a unique seaside dip. :swimming_pool:
☕ Coffee with a View
Enjoy a coffee and pastry at The Old Pier cafe in the harbor. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Stonehaven's picturesque pebble beach, dramatic coastal views, and the iconic Dunnottar Castle. The town's charming harbor, excellent fish and chips, and unique metal sculptures add to its appeal. Some find the beach less ideal for sunbathing due to its pebble nature and the unpredictable Scottish weather.
"Long beach in crescent shaped bay in picturesque Stonehaven. Has interesting, quirky, whimsical metal sculptures on the trail on the nearby Boardwalk. Very pleasant."
Photos Only as G Maps deletes reviews
"Nice little beach (Sand, pebbles and rocks) so not the nicest pure sand beach but has a nice chippy, cafe and open air pool in the summer months."
Nick Fairley
"The Stone beach is good for walk. The North See is cole but clean. A few people around."
Marek Sz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stonehaven is easily accessible by car, located about 30 minutes south of Aberdeen. There are also bus services from Aberdeen to Stonehaven. Once in town, the beach is a short walk from the town center and harbor.
Yes, there is parking available near the beach, including a car park with free-to-use toilets. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Buses run regularly from Aberdeen to Stonehaven, making it a convenient day trip destination. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
Walking is ideal for exploring the beach, harbor, and town. For Dunnottar Castle, a scenic walk along the coastal path is highly recommended.
Yes, Stonehaven is a fantastic stop on a Scotland road trip, offering beautiful coastal scenery, historical sites like Dunnottar Castle, and great food options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Stonehaven Beach itself is free to access. There are no entry fees for the beach or the surrounding promenade.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit Dunnottar Castle. It's advisable to check their official website for current prices and opening hours before your visit.
Stonehaven Beach is open 24/7, as it's a public beach. However, facilities like cafes and shops nearby will have their own operating hours.
No, the Stonehaven open-air pool typically operates during the summer months. It's best to check their schedule for specific dates of operation.
For Dunnottar Castle, booking tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stonehaven Beach is a long, crescent-shaped pebble beach. It's known for its clean waters, interesting shells, rocks, and quirky metal sculptures along the boardwalk.
Yes, there are lovely walking trails, including the coastal path leading to Dunnottar Castle, offering spectacular views of the coastline.
Facilities include free public toilets in the car park, nearby cafes, and renowned fish and chip shops. The open-air pool is also a popular summer attraction.
Yes, Stonehaven Beach is dog-friendly, and many visitors report their dogs enjoying the space. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
You might spot various seabirds and marine life along the shore. The rocky areas can be good for observing small sea creatures during low tide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Bay Fish & Chips and Aunty Betty's are consistently praised for their delicious fish suppers. Expect queues, especially on sunny days!
Yes, the harbor area has several cafes and restaurants, including The Old Pier, offering coffee, pastries, and light meals with lovely views. 
Beyond fish and chips, you can find ice cream shops and other local eateries. Some visitors enjoy seafood platters.
Absolutely! Stonehaven Beach is a great spot for a picnic. You can grab supplies from local shops or bring your own.
While fish and chips are a specialty, many cafes and restaurants in Stonehaven are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to check menus or ask staff.
📸 📸 Photography
Dunnottar Castle at sunset or sunrise is iconic. The beach itself, with its sculptures and the sweeping bay, offers great shots. The harbor is also very photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon during the 'golden hour' provides the most beautiful light for photography. Stormy weather can also create dramatic, moody shots.
The whimsical metal sculptures on the boardwalk are unique subjects. Capturing the dramatic coastline and the ancient ruins of Dunnottar Castle are also highlights.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and castle views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for sea shots. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is often restricted at historical sites like Dunnottar Castle and may be subject to local bylaws. Always check regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the open-air swimming pool during the summer months for a fun splash. The town also boasts excellent fish and chip shops and ice cream parlors, perfect for treating the kids. For a bit of adventure, a visit to the nearby Dunnottar Castle can spark their imagination, though younger children might need assistance on the uneven terrain.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
+1Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the beach, perhaps with a good book, or explore the charming harbor. The town has a friendly vibe, and you can easily strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers at cafes or pubs. It’s a place to recharge and enjoy the rugged Scottish coast at your own pace.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1The beach itself, with its unique metal sculptures and sweeping bay, provides artistic subjects. Capture the power of the North Sea, especially during stormy weather, for dramatic shots. The picturesque harbor also offers charming scenes of fishing boats and coastal life.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Dunnottar Castle
+1Visitors often describe the castle as fairytale-like and awe-inspiring. Exploring the ruins, you can imagine life centuries ago, standing within its thick stone walls and imagining the battles fought. The panoramic views from the castle ramparts are simply spectacular, making it a prime spot for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. Be prepared for wind and uneven terrain as you explore the site.
Pro-tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the paths can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Check the castle's opening times and consider booking tickets in advance, particularly during peak tourist season, to avoid disappointment.
Stonehaven's Culinary Delights
Beyond the famous chippies, the Stonehaven Harbour area offers a charming selection of cafes and eateries. The Old Pier is a popular spot for coffee, pastries, and light lunches, providing a cozy atmosphere with views of the boats. You can also find ice cream shops offering a sweet treat to round off your visit.
+1For those looking for a more relaxed meal, consider a picnic on the beach. You can pick up supplies from local bakeries and shops, enjoying the sea air and the sound of the waves. The variety of dining options ensures there's something to satisfy every palate in Stonehaven.
+1The Unique Charm of the Beach
A unique feature of Stonehaven Beach is the collection of quirky metal sculptures dotted along the boardwalk and promenade. These whimsical creations add a touch of artistry and character to the seaside, making a stroll along the beach even more engaging. They're a hit with visitors of all ages and provide fun photo opportunities.
While the water can be cold, the beach is perfect for a bracing walk, beachcombing for shells and interesting rocks, or simply sitting and enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery. It's a place where you can truly connect with the raw beauty of the Scottish coastline.
+1
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