27-06-2025
The Scottish seaside towns 'you must visit' named as East Lothian spot tops list
12 coastal destinations around the country were singled out.
Scotland's top "seaside towns you must visit" have been named. Topping the list is a coastal destination in East Lothian.
VisitScotland has shared a list of harbours and seaside towns that are well worth a trip, with a total of 12 locations around the country singled out by the tourism board.
Coming in at number one on VisitScotland's list is Dunbar in East Lothian. The town is located along the North Sea coast, and is approximately 30 miles out of Edinburgh.
The experts praised Dunbar for its dramatic scenery, singling out its "sweeping" beaches. East Beach is just a short walk from the town's High Street and is known as a top rockpooling destination, while Belhaven Bay offers panoramic views out over the Firth of Forth.
Another sight named among Dunbar's highlights by VisitScotland is Dunbar Castle. Once among the strongest fortresses in Scotland, the ruins of the centuries-old castle can be found in a dramatic position looking out over the town's harbour.
Meanwhile, the experts also praised Dunbar's High Street and its variety of food spots and attractions. Highlights include The Bear & Bull café, Hector's Artisan Pizzeria, and the John Muir's Birthplace museum—dedicated to the Scottish-born American naturalist who was born in Dunbar.
VisitScotland wrote: "Just thirty miles east of Edinburgh, Dunbar is framed by rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and rolling countryside—perfect for walkers, nature lovers, and families.
"Interesting fact: Dunbar was the birthplace of John Muir, the celebrated naturalist and 'Father of America's National Parks'.
"You'll be stunned by the dramatic ruins of Dunbar Castle, a reminder of centuries of battles and royal intrigue, it was even a refuge at one stage for Mary, Queen of Scots! Today, Dunbar's coastline is bustling with fishing boats and watersports enthusiasts—Belhaven Bay is a famous surfing spot.
"The High Street brims with unique shops, galleries, and welcoming locals. There is a great selection of cafés, pubs, and restaurants offering fresh seafood and Scottish specialties in the town."
Elsewhere, Oban in Argyll and Bute placed at number two on VisitScotland's list of "Scottish harbours and seaside towns you must visit". Often referred to as a 'Gateway to the Isles', the town is known for its scenic harbour and waterfront.
The experts applauded Oban's "Victorian architecture, friendly locals, and lovely seafood restaurants". Popular eateries around town include Ee-Usk, Cuan Mor, and the Oban Fish and Chip Shop.
Placing third on the roundup is Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, which is famous for its colourful water-front buildings and for being the setting of iconic children's TV show Balamory.
VisitScotland described the town as "one of the prettiest ports" in Scotland, and named venues Café Fish and The Mishnish Hotel as among its top destinations for seafood.
Rounding out the top five on VisitScotland's list are Portpatrick in Dumfries and Galloway and Crail in Fife, coming in at numbers four and five, respectively. Portpatrick earned acclaim for beaches such as Killantringan Bay and Sandeel Bay, while Crail was singled out for its cobbled streets and fishing cottages.
Also appearing on VisitScotland's list are Scalloway in Shetland, Pennan in Aberdeenshire, and Troon in South Ayrshire. Ullapool in the Scottish Highlands and Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire round out the top 10, while Portmahomack in Easter Ross and Durness in Sutherland complete the full list of 12.
Read on for the "12 Scottish harbours and seaside towns you must visit". Further information can be found on the VisitScotland website.
12 Scottish harbours and seaside towns you must visit
Dunbar, East Lothian
Oban, Argyll & The Isles
Tobermory, Mull
Portpatrick, Dumfries & Galloway
Crail, Fife
Scalloway, Shetland
Pennan, Aberdeenshire
Troon, South Ayrshire
Ullapool, Scottish Highlands
Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
Portmahomack, Easter Ross
Durness, Sutherland
