Fife

History

The town is named after Saint Andrew the Apostle. There has been an important church in St Andrews since at least the 8th century, and a bishopric since at least the 11th century. The settlement grew to the west of St Andrews cathedral with the southern side of the Scores to the north and the Kinness burn to the south. The burgh soon became the ecclesiastical capital of Scotland, a position which was held until the Scottish Reformation. The famous cathedral, the largest in Scotland, now lies in ruins. 

St Andrews is also known worldwide as the "home of golf". This is in part because the Royal and Ancient Golf Club, founded in 1754, exercises legislative authority over the game worldwide (except in the United States and Mexico), and also because the famous links (acquired by the town in 1894) is the most frequent venue for The Open Championship, the oldest of golf's four major championships.

Natural Space

This is a sandy beach with a path on the inland side. Due to its close proximity to the harbour and sailing club, the beach boasts a lot of watersports including surfing and sailing. There are plenty of activities for children, including some fascinating rock pools at the south end of the beach.

Setting

This beach is located on the south side of the old harbour close to the East Sands Leisure Centre. The Kinkell Braes Caravan Site is only 5 minutes away.

Getting There

From the centre of St Andrews take the Crail Road south. Opposite the St Andrews Memorial Hospital, a road to the left takes you down to the harbour and the beach.

Lifeguard

RNLI Beach Lifeguard Cover is in operation from 18 June to 21 August 2022, 10am - 6pm. Please check safety notices before entering the water. 

Water Quality Information

This beach is a designated bathing water site. Further information about water quality at this site can be found on the SEPA website. Please observe local signage and only swim where it is safe to do so.

Toilets