Balmedie Beach
Aberdeenshire
Balmedie Beach is part of a vast, 14-mile dune system stretching north of Aberdeen toward the River Ythan at Newburgh, the fifth largest sand dune system in the UK. The beach at Balmedie Country Park is wide, flat and golden, with an extensive dune system behind that provides sheltered walking even in blustery North Sea conditions. The park has excellent car park and toilet facilities. The beach was briefly the focus of international attention when Donald Trump proposed a golf resort development in the dunes; the course now operates at the southern end of the site.
No dog restrictions apply at Balmedie Beach. Year-round dog access. The long, wild beach and extensive dunes make this an outstanding off-lead destination north of Aberdeen.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Year Round
- Beach Type
- Sand, Dunes
- Tide Notes
- East-facing North Sea beach. Long flat sands at low tide. Exposed to northerly and easterly conditions.
- Facilities
- Country park car park with toilets. No beach facilities. Aberdeen city 7.5 miles south
- Parking
- Balmedie Country Park car park off A90 north of Aberdeen
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Balmedie Beach dog friendly?
Balmedie Beach is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the north-east of Scotland, earning a 9/10 rating. There are no dog restrictions in place, and the combination of a wide, flat golden beach and an extensive dune system makes it an outstanding destination for off-lead dogs.
Are dogs allowed at Balmedie Beach year round?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Balmedie Beach throughout the year with no seasonal restrictions. This makes it a reliable choice whatever the time of year, and the sheltered dunes behind the beach mean you can still enjoy a good walk even in blustery North Sea weather.
What should I know before visiting Balmedie Beach with my dog?
The beach is part of a remarkable 14-mile dune system — one of the largest in the UK — so come prepared for a long walk if you want to explore properly. Parking is available at Balmedie Country Park car park off the A90, and there are toilets on site, though there are no other beach facilities. Aberdeen city is around 7.5 miles to the south if you need anything else before or after your visit.
What’s Nearby?
Beach1.9 mi awayBlackdog Beach
Aberdeenshire
A quieter sandy beach south of Balmedie on the Aberdeenshire coast with year-round dog access and good off-lead space as part of the wider dune system north of Aberdeen.
Beach5.1 mi awayNewburgh Beach
Aberdeenshire
A wide estuary beach at the mouth of the Ythan with a large grey seal colony and year-round dog access on the beach itself.
Beach6.9 mi awayAberdeen Beach
Aberdeen City
Aberdeen city's long sandy beach on the Firth of Forth with year-round dog access, a busy promenade and the full facilities of Scotland's third city immediately behind.
Beach13.7 mi awayCruden Bay
Aberdeenshire
A wide sandy bay in Aberdeenshire backed by dunes with the ruins of Slains Castle on the cliffs above, year-round access and very few restrictions.
Beach20.4 mi awayStonehaven Beach
Aberdeenshire
A sandy beach at the charming harbour town of Stonehaven with year-round dog access, views of Dunnottar Castle to the south and excellent fish suppers in the town.
Beach24.9 mi awayCatterline Beach
Aberdeenshire
A dramatic cliff cove at the village that inspired Joan Eardley's famous paintings, with year-round dog access, a steep path to the beach and an intensely atmospheric character.
