Findhorn Beach

The beach at Findhorn stretches wide and sandy, backed by marram grass and the sort of light you only get in the far north. It's a proper working harbour town first, seaside destination second - fishing boats still work from here, which gives the whole place a different feel from the postcard beaches further south.

Walking the shoreline takes you past dunes that shift with each winter storm, and on a clear day you can see right across the Moray Firth. The sand itself is firm and golden, good for a proper walk rather than lounging about. Families with young kids will find it manageable - shallow at the edges, though the water's cold enough to make you think twice about paddling even in summer.

Forres is just down the road, so you're not stranded if you need a coffee or to pick up bits from the shops. The Loft Glamping site nearby makes a sensible base if you're planning to explore the wider Moray coast - it's close enough that you could stroll over in an evening, but far enough away to feel separate.

Go on a calm morning before the harbour gets busy with the fishing fleet. The light's better, it's quieter, and you'll actually enjoy the walk. Don't expect entertainment - this is about space, air, and the kind of silence you don't get in cities. If you want arcades and ice cream stands, look elsewhere. If you want miles of genuine Scottish coastline without the crowds, this works.