Portobello Beach
About
Portobello Beach is Edinburgh's seaside — a broad, sandy beach on the Firth of Forth that feels a world away from the medieval Old Town, despite being only 3 miles east of the city centre. When the sun comes out (it does happen), half of Edinburgh decamps here with towels, cricket bats, and ice cream from the promenade kiosks. The promenade stretches for about two miles and is lined with independent cafés, fish and chip shops, and the Portobello Swim Centre (an excellent Victorian pool). The beach itself is clean and sandy with views across to Fife. On warm days there are usually groups playing volleyball, paddleboarders on the water, and families building sandcastles. The sunsets across the Firth can be spectacular. Portobello has a growing foodie scene — the high street has several excellent cafés and restaurants, and the Porty Market (monthly) is worth catching. It's easily reached by bus from the city centre (25 minutes). On a sunny Edinburgh day, there's genuinely nowhere better to be.
Opening Times
Open 24 hours. Beach facilities seasonal.
Popular Nearby
Summerhall
1 Summerhall, Edinburgh EH9 1PL
Art, theatre, gin, and craft beer in a former veterinary school — Edinburgh's most eclectic and exciting arts venue....
Art, Theatre
Free
Calton Hill
Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA
Edinburgh's most photogenic hilltop — neoclassical monuments, panoramic views, and the best sunset spot in the city....
Nature & Outdoors, Romantic, Landmarks & Attractions
Free
Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat, Holyrood Park, Edinburgh EH8 8HG
An ancient volcano in the heart of Edinburgh — 45 minutes to the summit and 360-degree views of the entire city....
Nature & Outdoors, Landmarks & Attractions
Free
Holyrood Park & Palace of Holyroodhouse
Canongate, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8DX
A royal palace, volcanic peaks, and 640 acres of wild parkland — Edinburgh's eastern anchor from Mary Queen of Scots to today....
Historical, Nature & Outdoors, Landmarks & Attractions
From £18.50
The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1PB
Edinburgh's historic backbone — a mile of medieval closes, hidden courtyards, and 1,000 years of stories from castle to palace....
Landmarks & Attractions, Historical, Shopping
Free
What people are saying about this
Invite your friends by email, any users that already have an account will be sent a friend request.