Sandend

Written by Chris Thornton | 16th of August 2024
Sandend Bay

Sandend, with its origins dating back to the 1600s, is one of the oldest fishing communities along the Aberdeenshire/Moray Coast. This quaint village is characterized by a picturesque cluster of traditional fishing cottages encircling a distinctive harbor. Historical records reveal a fascinating detail: the village's early residents were once reprimanded by the Kirk Session for baiting their fishing lines on a Sunday.

Today, Sandend has become a popular destination for surfers who flock from across the country to challenge the waves that roll onto its broad sandy bay—unsurprisingly, the inspiration behind the village's name. The surf here is often considered among the best in Scotland, with many surfers likening it to Cornwall but without the bustling crowds.

Glenglassaugh Distillery can be seen from the beach. It is the main sponsor of the fantastic Portsoy Boat Festival.

The beach at Sandend is also steeped in history. Visitors can explore remnants from World War II, including anti-tank positions and pillbox defenses that still stand as silent witnesses to the past.

Our Visit to Sandend Bay

My family and I had just visited the Portsoy Ice Cream Shop and were heading home. We decided to stop by Sandend on the way; it was such a nice evening, and I wanted to try flying my new drone. Despite living locally, I had never been to Sandend, so it was my first experience of this beautiful beach.

Sandend Car Park

We left the A98 and turned up Seaview Road and continued into the village. The car park is on the right-hand side, a short distance into town. There are also public toilets here.

There is a path to the beach from the car park, and there are signs worth reading if you plan on swimming or surfing.

Sandend Car Park
The good sized visitors car park at Sandend.
 
Sandend car park seen from above.
Car park from the air.
 
Sandend toilets.
Sandend Toilet Block.
 
Sandend Beach information board.
Information on the beach.
 
Sandend warning sign
Warning signs for swimmers.
 
Surfing sign at Sandend Beach.
Sign advertising Suds Surf lessons.

Sandend Beach

The path opens onto a beautiful view of the expansive sandy beach flanked by the village on the left, hills, and Glenglassaugh Distillery to the right. The Scattery Burn terminates into the sea, splitting the first quarter of the beach. Tank traps remain from World War 2 near the sand dunes, placed to disturb enemy landings on this wide, flat beach.

We were lucky to have the whole beach to ourselves on this lovely June evening. The girls played on the tank traps, seeing how many they could jump between. I got some lovely drone shots of the town and beach.

Sandend Beach view
The path to the beach opens to this lovely vista.
 
Wide angle aerial view of Sandend.
Wide angle view of Sandend Beach and village.
 
Sandend town and beach.
Looking east over the town and beach.
 
The little harbour at Sandend
The little harbour.
 
Alternative view of Sandend Harbour
Another view of the town and harbour.
 
Glenglassaugh Distillery from the air
Glenglassaugh Distillery.

Sandend Holidays

Located between the car park and the beach is Sandend Holidays, a lovely caravan site with about 25 static caravans. The site also offers camping pitches and an option to stay in a converted schoolhouse. It looks like a beautiful place for a holiday and an ideal destination for surfers. See more information on their official website.

Caravan Park at Sandend.
Sandend Holidays Holiday Park.

What else is there to see near Sandend?

If you're staying at Sandend, the local area has much to offer. Here are my top picks:

  1. Just a mile to the west, you can find the cliffside ruin of Findlater Castle. This slightly dangerous ruin sits on a rocky cliff and is partially built into it. You can enter the castle at your own risk or admire the views from the nearby viewpoint. Sunnyside Beach is available a short distance west of the castle. The castle's remains offer a glimpse into the area's rich and often tumultuous history, making it a must-visit for those exploring this part of Aberdeenshire.

  2. Boyne Castle—This ruin is a little more off the beaten track and is a more adventurous option for would-be castle hunters. Found a short distance east of Portsoy, the local tourist board does not advertise it due to its dangerous state. So again, visit at your own risk.

  3. The town of Cullen has a great deal to offer, including a lovely beach, sea school, harbour and a picturesque railway viaduct. Castle Hill is a lovely spot to walk to for a great vantage point of the town.

  4. Macduff Aquarium—About a 20-minute drive east is Macduff Aquarium, one of the best places to learn about sea life in the Moray Firth/North Sea.

Findlater Castle's dangerous ruins sit atop a cliff spur projecting into the north sea.
Findlater Castle.
 
Sandend Beach aerial photo
The epic Sandend Beach.

Wildlife

The Moray Coast is famous for it's wildlife, dolphins and seals are a common sight. More recently, orcas have been seen more and more frequently. Bring some binoculars and see if you can spot them!

Sandend Video

Here's a short static video overlooking Sandend - best viewed full screen!

 

Key Information on Sandend

  • Sandend is a small fishing village with a lovely flat beach.

  • It is ideal for swimming and surfing, heed the warning signs in the car park.

  • Public toilets are available at the car park.

  • A well-sized caravan park with static caravans and motorhome spaces is available.

  • Sandend would be a good base for visiting Findlater Castle, Boyne Castle, Cullen, Portsoy, Macduff Aquarium, or further afield to Spey Bay.

Sandend wide angle view.
Wide angle view of the beach.
 
Olivia and Chris Thornton at Sandend Beach.
Olivia and me at Sandend Beach.

Conclusion

Sandend Beach is more than just a beautiful spot on the Aberdeenshire coast; it's a place where history, nature, and leisure come together in perfect harmony. Whether you're drawn by the thrill of surfing some of Scotland's best waves, exploring historical remnants from WWII, or simply unwinding amidst stunning coastal scenery, Sandend offers something for everyone.

I wholeheartedly recommend Sandend as a destination, whether you're planning a holiday, a day trip, or just looking for a peaceful place to relax and recharge.

All information was correct at the time of writing, please check things like entry costs and opening times before you arrive.

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