Whenever there’s a sunny day or a heatwave, crowds of sun-deprived Scots flock to their nearby beaches. However, what if we told you our favourite hidden gem beaches in and around Glasgow where you can avoid sardine-like views on the sand? What if we told you that there is also a secret hidden beach within Glasgow itself? We have gathered up a list of our favourite serene sandy spots not too far away, so you can enjoy the quieter beaches, too.
1. Seamill Beach
Seamill Beach is located around 45 minutes away from Glasgow, boasting gorgeous views of the Isle of Arran down the Firth of Clyde. While there are some rocky areas, the spot is nice and sandy while also being backed by grass. This is one of our favourite hidden gem beaches that can be accessed via bus from Glasgow or via the A737. Plus, the Seamill Hydro Hotel & Resort has restaurant, bars and spa for those wanting a proper day out away from the city.
2. Small beach by the River Kelvin at Garscube Sports Complex
As you can see, this beach does not really have a name, which makes it even more hidden. Located on the banks of River Kelvin within Glasgow lies a perfectly good sandy beach. Even though it’s only small, not many people tend to go there. Well, maybe it’s going to change now that we told the whole of Glasgow about it… You can find it at Garscube Sports Complex within West of Scotland Science Park just off Maryhill Road. Visitors can also enjoy The Kelvin Walkway along with the secret beach to get that much-needed nature walk on top.
3. Pencil Beach
Located in Largs, North Ayrshire, Pencil Beach takes about 50 minutes to reach by car from Glasgow. The shallow bay only stretches 300 meters in length, and has a bit of a mixed terrain of sand, pebbles and grass. Still a perfectly pleasant day out away from the crowds, this hidden beach boasts lovely views of the Firth of Clyde and into Little Cumbrae and Great Cumbrae islands on a clear day.
4. Lunderston Bay Beach
Located just 50 minutes from Glasgow, Lunderston Bay is part of the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park on the East coast of the Firth of Clyde. The cute beach boasts plenty of picnic opportunities with grassy patches, as well as a white sand strip. Plus, guests can also go for an outdoor swim less than a 10-minute drive from Lunderston Bay at the Gourock Outdoor Pool, which also gets heated up to 28 degrees.