East Sands

East Sands, St Andrews

East Sands is one of the two main beaches in St Andrews, located just south of the historic cathedral ruins and harbour. It is known for its vast stretch of golden sand and stunning views across the North Sea. It is a popular spot for locals, students, and visitors looking for a quieter alternative to the famous West Sands.

East Sands a Peaceful Coastal Escape

Unlike the windswept expanse of West Sands, East Sands feels more intimate and sheltered, making it ideal for families, dog walkers, and sea swimmers. Rugged rocks frame the beach on one end and the iconic harbour wall on the other, with views stretching towards the Fife Coastal Path.

East Sands is also popular with kayakers, paddle boarders, and surfers. Thanks to the steady waves and easy access from the adjacent East Sands Leisure Centre. The St Andrews Sailing Club operates nearby, and water sports activities are common, especially in the summer months.

Facilities and Accessibility

Visitors will find a car park, public toilets, and picnic benches next to the beach. The East Sands Leisure Centre provides indoor swimming and a gym. Or book in and enjoy the Wild Scottish Sauna experience beside the Leisure Centre.

A coastal footpath links the beach with the town centre, making it a leisurely stroll from the main attractions. The beach is also part of the Fife Coastal Path, attracting walkers heading south towards Kingsbarns and Crail.

Nearby Attractions

• St Andrews Cathedral and Castle – Just a short walk away, these historic ruins are one of Scotland’s most important ecclesiastical sites. The Castle is perched above the cliffs, with dramatic views and a rich medieval history.
• St Andrews Aquarium – Located closer to West Sands but worth visiting for families.
• Harbour and Pier – Perfect for a scenic walk or to watch the boats and seabirds at the end of the beach.

• The Cheesy Toast Shack - An award‑winning beach shack at East Sands serving fully loaded grilled‑cheese toasties, including their famous mac‑and‑cheese toastie. Open daily, it even offers optional “seagull insurance” to replace sandwiches lost to cheeky local gulls.
• St Andrews Holiday Park at Kinkell Braes - Perched on scenic Kinkell Braes, this award‑winning holiday park overlooks East Sands and St Andrews Bay. It features lodges/caravans, has touring pitches, an on‑site bar/restaurant, a play park, a Papa John’s takeaway and direct access to coastal walking paths.
• Jannettas Gelateria - A multi‑generation family of gelateria established in 1908. Nestled on South Street, it offers over 50 traditional, handmade Italian gelato and sorbet flavours. It is around a 10-minute walk as you walk back into town.

Getting To East Sands

You can reach East Sands on foot from the town centre in about 15 minutes. There is on-site parking, but it is limited, especially on a good day. By car from the town centre, leave the town centre via South Street onto A917. Follow signs past East Sands Leisure Centre, then park in the beach-adjacent car park beside the sea.