Ready to discover some of the best coastal experiences in Scotland? Angus, with its stunning coastline and serene waters, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
From idyllic beaches and spectacular cliffs to winding rivers and powerful waterfalls, the region is packed with hidden gems that are waiting to be explored.
Here’s our list of the best coastal experiences, as chosen by the people who live here and those who love to visit.
A four-mile family friendly walk with impressive views of red sandstone formations, sea caves, blowholes, and secluded beaches, the Arbroath Cliff Top Trail explores the spectacular Seaton Cliffs.
Extending north from Arbroath, the cliff walk is a treat for lovers of nature, geology and the outdoors. Home to the ‘Deils’ Heid’, a rock formation with a menacing face, and a whole host of wildlife including seabird colonies, butterflies and wildflowers.
The cliffs are also one of the best locations in Angus for bottlenose dolphin sightings, and through June and August to find the distinct spotted burnet moth.
Take a stroll around the operational Arbroath Harbour and watch as fishing boats unload their catch and prepare for sea. If you’re in the mood for some local flavour, enjoy some of their spoils at one of the nearby fish and chip shops, or try an authentic Arbroath Smokie from one of the town’s fishmongers or restaurants.
For a truly unforgettable experience, hop on a boat to see the iconic Bell Rock Lighthouse. Located 11 miles offshore, it’s Britain’s oldest surviving rock lighthouse and a testament to 19th-century engineering. The lighthouse, which still stands today, has warned ships away from the jagged coast for over 150 years.
If you love birdwatching or want to enjoy a peaceful walk, Lintrathen Loch is the place to be. A beautiful inland loch, it’s also reservoir that supplies water to Angus and Dundee – home to breeding songbirds in summer and wintering greylag geese in the colder months. You can enjoy a circular trail around the loch with plenty of chances to spot wildlife.
Not far from the Loch, you’ll find Backwater Reservoir (also known as Backwater Dam), another fantastic spot for a hike. With its eight-mile perimeter trail, the reservoir provides sweeping views of the water and surrounding hills. For the perfect pit stop, head to the Wee Bear Café, where you can enjoy cake and coffee while soaking in the scenery.
East Haven, just a short distance from Carnoustie, is one of Scotland’s oldest fishing communities, dating back to 1214. The village is a picture of coastal charm, with a beautifully kept garden featuring a boat as its centrepiece, winner of a Britain in Bloom Gold Award. The public toilets have even been transformed into a quirky gallery, with local art displayed on the walls.
Take a leisurely walk along the beach, which is ideal for families and offers fantastic views of the coast. East Haven’s unspoiled sands have a rich history, having been a favourite spot of Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret in the 1930s. Locals take great pride in the beach, with regular community cleans organised to keep the coast pristine.
Nestled within Forfar Country Park, Forfar Loch is a serene spot for a walk. The circular route around the loch is about an hour long, and for families it can be finished with a trip to the park for some playtime. While walking, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including kingfishers, otters, and even the occasional osprey that help themselves to the water’s fish.
For those wanting to learn more, you can join one of the Countryside Ranger’s nature events to learn more about the area’s flora and fauna.
A hidden gem in the middle of the loch is St Margaret’s Inch, a glacial ridge that was once home to a Crannog (lake-dwelling). Along with evidence of the dwelling’s existence, excavations in the site have found remnants of the area’s rich history with fascinating archaeological finds, like 13th-century chess pieces, boar tusks, wolf teeth, silver ornaments and deer antlers.
Located at the head of Glen Esk, Loch Lee is surrounded by mountains and offers some of the best hiking and nature watching in the area. The path along the loch’s edge is an easy stroll, perfect for a picnic while taking in the sweeping views.
For more of a challenge, try the Loch Lee Waterfall circuit, a 15.8km loop that will take you past stunning wildflowers and offer excellent birdwatching opportunities with golden eagles, ospreys, and peregrine falcons often spotted overhead.
The walk to Loch Lee and beyond is one of Scotland’s prime places to spot an adder – Scotland’s only snake. You’ll can often find them basking in the sun at the foot of dykes, alongside palmate newts and tadpoles in path ditches throughout late spring and early summer.
Voted Scotland’s most scenic beach, Lunan Bay is a vast stretch of sand with plenty to explore. Walkers, horse riders, and surfers flock here to enjoy the views, while families can enjoy the chance to spot marine life in the rock pools or the occasional dolphin or seal in the bay.
The beach is large and is dotted with wildflowers and dunes, if you’re lucky you may even find agates and gemstones after a storm.
It’s a hotspot for nature lovers year-round, as when the weather gets colder long-tailed ducks and other fascinating seabirds arrive. Whether you’re here for a walk or simply to unwind, this secluded haven on the coastline is widely considered one of the best beaches in Angus for good reason.
A pair of joined waterfalls on the River Isla, Reekie Linn is steeped in legend. At the base of the waterfall, the dark cave known as Black Dub is said to be the hiding place of an outlaw who encountered the devil himself in the form of a giant black dog – and was so frightened he turned himself in the very next day.
Found just north of Alyth at Bridge of Craigisla, a short woodland walk takes you to falls. As the roar of water grows louder, you’ll be treated to the sight of a 24m drop, with misty spray rising into the air.
Perfect for a quick escape into nature, Reekie Linn is where forest, waterfall, and folklore combine for a truly spectacular location.
Located at the southern end of Montrose Bay, Scurdie Ness is a headland on the south side of the River South Esk offering sweeping views of the estuary and surrounding coastline. The rocky shoreline is famous for its semi-precious agates that locals and visitors alike spend hours in search of, so bring your best stone-finding skills with you.
The lighthouse, built in 1870 by David and Thomas Stevenson, is still operational and a perfect spot for a scenic walk. You can follow the route beyond the lighthouse towards Usan, Boddin Point and finally Lunan Bay on foot and by bike. As you explore, keep an eye out for seals, bottlenose dolphins, and if you’re lucky, a glimpse of a humpback whale in the distance.
Stretching three miles along Montrose Bay, this golden beach is perfect for nature lovers and families alike. Easily accessible from the town, the beach offers beautiful views of Scurdie Ness Lighthouse, a purpose-built Seafront Splash area for kids, and a relaxing spot to unwind.
Enjoy a circular walk along the beach before returning via an inland route. Starting near the play area, by the car park, and following the beach northwards for 4km until it reaches the River North Esk estuary with St Cyrus beach and the National Nature Reserve sitting to the North.
This scenic route will then take you alongside the River North Esk, past traditional fishing bothies, underneath the North Water viaduct and through picturesque beech woodland.
If you’re up for more adventure, continue along the North Coast Cycle Route which can be joined here, taking you on a pleasant walk south to Montrose through coastal heath.
